Step aboard the Dunbrody Famine Ship

At the Dunbrody Famine Ship in New Ross, County Wexford, you can discover what life was like for Irish emigrants as they set off on this life-changing journey. The experience starts just as it did in the 19th century at the William Graves & Son ticket office on the quays, before you step onto the replica famine ship.

During the guided tour, you’ll be transported to 1849 as you listen to the tales of other passengers, read letters from those who already made it to America, and explore the rooms, captain’s cabin and crew quarters. This type of ship was often referred to as a “coffin ship”. As you explore the cramped quarters downstairs – where passengers endured horrific conditions often with death rates of 30% common – it’s easy to see why. The Dunbrody Famine Ship had lower casualty rates than other ships due to the more compassionate actions of its captains, but the conditions give an insight into what others on similar ships would have endured. In the Irish America Hall of Fame, you can learn about the achievements of Irish Americans who made their mark on the world including actor Maureen O’Hara, President Joe Biden and dancer Jean Butler.