The people of Crosshaven are poised to welcome a massive influx of visitors for the sailing regatta that has become known all over the world as simply, Cork Week.
And, as our pictures today show, Cork has had a long love affair with boating and sailing. In the past, the locals in the city and county celebrated their luck at living near a river or coastline with an annual regatta.
But it is Cork Week that has endured. Hosted by the Royal Cork Yacht Club, it is held every two years and continues to be Ireland’s largest and most prestigious sailing regatta.
The first Cork Week took place in 1978 and just over 50 boats took part. Approximately 130 yachts will be racing as part of this year’s event.

The Crosshaven Regatta in 1977.

Crowds gather on the shore to watch the Courtmacsherry Regatta in 1953.

Huge crowds gather along the Marina and Lower Glanmire Road in Cork city to watch boats taking part in the city regatta in 1939.

Attempting the greasy pole in Crosshaven in 1971.

Better luck next time. Crosshaven 1971.

Boats taking part in the Kinsale Regatta in August 1954.

Sailing and swimming at the Glandore Regatta in the 1960s.

Dinghy racing at Crosshaven, with the Grand Hotel in background in July 1953.