Ireland’s marine transport, shipping, and engineering sector plays a key role in keeping the country connected to the world. It includes cargo and ferry services, port operations, and shipbuilding and repair. The sector also supports fishing, aquaculture, marine research, offshore wind energy and other offshore services, creating jobs and driving growth in Ireland’s blue economy. 

In communities all along Ireland’s coast, sea fishing is an important focus of economic life, providing jobs, income, and investment, while playing a key role in local identity. Commercial fishing in Ireland ranges from small boats that fish nearshore and return the same day to larger vessels, including supertrawlers, that can spend days or weeks at sea.

Aquaculture, or fish farming, is a rapidly growing global industry focused on sustainable seafood production. Powered by aquatech, it uses innovative technology for efficient, responsible farming. In Ireland, key species include salmon, trout, mussels, oysters, and seaweed.

Ireland’s location on the edge of the Atlantic makes it a leading research hub for marine science and conservation, uniting researchers, engineers, and coastal communities to study, protect, and sustainably manage ocean resources.

Marine tourism focuses on enjoying Ireland’s seas, coasts, and waterways for adventure, experience, and relaxation. Activities such as sailing, cruising, kayaking, diving, whale and dolphin watching, and coastal walks all help to support local jobs and sustainable tourism. 

Seafood processing is a well-established industry in Ireland and remains vital to coastal communities and the wider economy. The sector is diversifying into areas such as seaweed-based products and nutraceuticals, while supporting-services like quality control and distribution continue to grow.

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