Steady As She Goes

In this jam-packed episode of Steady As She Goes, we set sail on another journey through maritime history, resilience, and remarkable stories from Ireland and beyond.
This week, we’re joined by Andrew Doherty of Tides & Tales as we delve into the tragic story of the Alfred D. Snow, wrecked at the entrance to Waterford Harbour in 1888, and uncover the fascinating story of a beautifully preserved dresser crafted from timber salvaged from the wreck—now on display at the Rosslare Harbour Maritime Heritage Centre.
We also remember the mighty little James Caird, the legendary small boat that played a crucial role in one of the greatest survival stories ever told.
In Maritime Words of the Week, we explore the phrase “Between the Devil and the Deep Blue Sea” and its nautical origins.
And of course, we bring you the latest news from around the coast, keeping you up to date with all things maritime.
⚓ Featuring Andrew Doherty of Tides & Tales
⚓ Maritime history, resilience & survival
⚓ The story behind a remarkable 150-year-old dresser
⚓ The legendary James Caird
⚓ Maritime Words of the Week
⚓ News from around the coast
Safe sailing… and steady as she goes.

In this episode of Steady As She Goes, we take a step back in time to reflect on two dramatic maritime incidents that unfolded on the very same day along the Wexford coast in 1860.
We begin with the story of the American ship Neptune of Boston, driven ashore on the Burrow of Ballyteigue while en route from the US to Liverpool with over 4,000 bales of cotton. Battling fog, wind, and heavy seas, her crew faced a perilous situation—but thanks to the efforts of local agent Edward Meadows and others, all lives were saved. We explore not only the wreck itself, but the remarkable afterlife of the ship, as parts of her structure found new purpose ashore in Kilmore Quay, becoming part of what would be known as “The Wooden House.”
We then turn to the Vanguard of New York, which ran aground on the Blackwater Bank the very same day. With the help of Arklow fishermen, the steam tug Erin, and the powerful steamer Fire Fly, a determined salvage effort unfolded involving cargo discharge, coordination ashore, and eventual rescue. It’s a story of seamanship, local knowledge, and the vital role of early maritime response.
This episode is a reflection on resilience at sea, the communities that supported those in distress, and the enduring legacy of shipwrecks along our coast.
⚓ Maritime history from Wexford and beyond
⚓ Stories of survival, salvage, and remembrance
⚓ A glimpse into 19th-century seafaring life
Join us as we remember these events, and the people behind them.

Episode 16 – Restoration & Revival
In this episode of Steady As She Goes, we bring you the latest maritime news, stories, and developments from around the coast and beyond.
We look at recent updates from the maritime world, including ferry route developments linking Ireland with mainland Europe, and the continued growth in connectivity for both freight and passengers.
There’s also a welcome return closer to home, with the Wexford Maritime Festival set to make its comeback for 2026 — a great boost for the local harbour and maritime community.
In our Good Pirates feature, we highlight the inspiring restoration of the TS Lord Nelson, a vessel with a unique story and an important place in sail training history.
And as always, we dive into our Maritime Word of the Week, exploring the origins and stories behind the language of the sea.
⚓ News from around the coast
⚓ Good Pirates – Restoring TS Lord Nelson
⚓ Maritime Word of the Week
Please note: As we move into the summer season, Steady As She Goes will be moving to a fortnightly release schedule.
If you enjoy the podcast, be sure to follow and share — and as always…
Steady As She Goes.

In Episode 15 of Steady As She Goes, we explore Irish maritime history, coastal news, and life at sea — from the Irish Sea to the Atlantic coast.
This episode features a powerful remembrance of the Tuskar Rock air disaster (1968), marking the anniversary of Aer Lingus Flight 712 and its lasting impact on Ireland’s southeast coast.
In our News from around the coast segment, we cover:
Galway RNLI and over 30 years of lifesaving service25 years of Ireland’s marine data buoy network with the Marine Institute and Met ÉireannThe legacy of the RMS Celtic (White Star Line) in CorkLatest Irish Sea ferry updates, including Stena Nordica and Norbay
We also look back on the end of the lighthouse keeper era in Ireland at Baily Lighthouse (1997) — a key moment in maritime heritage.
This week’s featured interview is with Darragh Sheridan, CEO of Sail Training Ireland, discussing sail training, tall ships, youth development, and maritime education in Ireland.
We also remember the loss of the Saint Fintan (1941) during World War II — highlighting the risks faced by Irish merchant seafarers.
Plus, our Maritime Word of the Week: the origin of “pipe down.”
Perfect for anyone interested in Irish maritime history, shipping news, sailing, lighthouses, RNLI, and life at sea.

In this episode of Steady As She Goes, we sit down with Capt. Dermot Gray for a fascinating look back on a remarkable life at sea, including 38 years of service with C.I.L.
From the bridge to the coastline, Dermot shares stories, insights, and experiences from decades spent working in Irish waters and beyond — offering a rare glimpse into the realities of a seafaring career.
We also bring you:
News from around the coast

The remarkable story of the Müllers

Maritime Words of the Week

As always, it’s maritime stories from Ireland and beyond.