As an island nation, Ireland relies on the sea as its economic lifeline. Marine transport and shipping are essential for connecting Ireland to international markets—moving goods, fuel, and passengers efficiently, and supporting both imports and exports across multiple industries. In fact, around 90% of the world’s goods travel by sea, highlighting how vital this sector is to global trade and to Ireland’s own prosperity.

Several industry sectors are closely linked to shipping and rely on Ireland’s ports for trade and logistics. In particular, the fisheries and marine industries play a vital role, with activities such as seafood processing, aquaculture, marine research, and offshore energy depending on efficient port operations. Other key sectors, including agriculture, pharmaceuticals, manufacturing, and energy distribution, also rely on Ireland’s ports to support exports, imports, and the wider blue economy.

Ireland’s Gateway

Ireland’s location on Europe’s Atlantic edge makes it a key gateway for international shipping routes, linking Irish exports and imports to markets across the world. Marine transport and shipping includes a variety of ships for both cargo and passengers, such as container ships, bulk carriers, Ro-Ro (Roll-on/Roll-off) vessels, tankers, and general cargo ships.

Offshore service vessels include the Irish Naval Service’s patrol fleet, commercial service vessels, and other specialised vessels that provide logistical support for offshore energy and marine infrastructure projects like oil and gas platforms and windfarms. Passenger ferries and cruise ships operate services to the UK and France mainly in the ports of Dublin, Cork, and Rosslare.

Major ports—including Dublin, Cork, Rosslare, Shannon Foynes, Waterford, and Greenore—play central roles in this system. These ports handle a wide range of cargo, from bulk goods and fuel to containerised freight and passenger services. Regional ports also serve as vital connectors between sea and land, supporting local industries, fisheries, and coastal communities.

The marine sector is evolving rapidly through advances in engineering, technology, and sustainability. Ireland’s ports are undergoing major upgrades, including the construction of new berths and docking areas, smarter operational systems, and infrastructure to support offshore renewable energy projects. These developments boost efficiency, expand capacity, and reinforce Ireland’s position as a leader in innovative and sustainable marine transport.

Engineering

Engineering is crucial to marine operations. Marine and ship engineers design, build, and maintain vessels—working on propulsion systems, navigation equipment, safety mechanisms, and environmental technologies such as alternative fuels and emissions reduction systems.

With Ireland investing heavily in offshore wind energy, there is growing demand for engineers and technicians to build and service wind farm vessels, port infrastructure, and renewable energy systems. Highly skilled professionals are employed across shipyards, ports, research centres, and marine engineering firms throughout the country.

Organisations such as the Irish Maritime Development Office (IMDO) and the Department of Transport continue to support innovation and sustainability through funding, advisory services, and projects focused on cleaner fuels, digital navigation, and sustainable shipping.

Why This Sector is Exciting

Travel and Adventure: Irish ports and shipping networks connect people and goods across Europe and the world, offering chances to see new places and work internationally.

Smart and Green: The sector is embracing smart technologies and sustainable practices, including greener shipping, energy-efficient ports, and offshore wind developments.

Diverse Careers: Opportunities range from ship engineering and port operations to maritime research, logistics, and offshore renewable energy projects.

Growing Demand for skills: From craft and operative roles to professional and vessel-support positions, the sector is expanding and urgently needs skilled workers.

Career Paths in Shipping and Marine Transport

Marine transport, shipping, and marine engineering offer a wide range of career opportunities across logistics, technology, engineering, and operational roles. This sector is expanding as Ireland strengthens its position as a global hub for sustainable trade, smart ports, and offshore renewable energy. Investments in green shipping, port innovation, and Marine infrastructure are driving demand for skilled people who can keep Ireland connected to the world.

Behind every ship and port is a world of engineering and innovation. Marine engineers and technicians design and maintain ships, work on engines and navigation systems, and develop cleaner, smarter technologies. The growth of offshore wind energy is creating new careers in vessel design, marine construction, and sustainability.

Careers at sea are often split into two main departments: the Deck and the Engine room.

• The Deck Department oversees the overall operation of the ship, including navigation, communications, cargo handling and stability, maintenance, and safety. Roles include Master (Captain), Chief Mate, Deck Officer, and Seafarer.

• The Engine Room Department is responsible for all technical operations, such as main engine propulsion, other machinery, and electrical power generation. Roles include Chief Engineer, Electrical Officer, Wiper, and Engine Room Artificer.

Other careers in this area include:

• Master (Captain)
• Ship owner and operator
• Chief Mate (Officer); 2nd Mate; 3rd Mate
• Seafarer
• Port and Maritime Logistics
• Shipping agent and Broker
• Ship manager
• Liner and Port agent
• Stevedore
• Radio operator
• Loading Operator
• Customs Clearance Officer
• Freight forwarder
• Safety and Training related roles

Offshore Industries: With a focus on offshore exploration for gas and other resources, careers in this field can include

• Offshore Project Manager,
• Environmental Scientist
• Structural Engineer, particularly for offshore wind projects.
• The Irish Naval Service also recruits for roles like Marine Engineering Officer.

Career Pathways 

Many people start out in port operations, vessel support, or technical maintenance.

With experience, they move into engineering, logistics, or management roles.

Advanced opportunities grow in areas such as ship design, marine automation, offshore energy, environmental technology, and supply chain coordination. It’s a pathway that combines hands-on experience with cutting-edge technology—offering real opportunities to progress, innovate, and help shape Ireland’s ocean future.

As Ireland moves toward a greener future, the marine and engineering sectors are investing in digital tech, renewable energy, and sustainability—creating exciting careers in trade, technology, and the ocean.

Life at Sea

Life at sea is often portrayed as adventurous and full of travel — and while that can be true, working in the marine sector also involves demanding, complex tasks in challenging conditions. Because voyages can be lengthy, you’ll typically spend extended periods onboard before taking time off between journeys.

Adapting to modern technologies and maintaining strong health and safety standards in a potentially hazardous environment are essential priorities for every worker in the industry.

Sector Outlook

As global trade evolves and sustainability becomes central, Ireland’s marine transport, shipping, and engineering sectors are investing in cleaner technologies, digital transformation, and workforce development. Together, these efforts ensure that Ireland’s marine industry remains safe, efficient, and environmentally responsible—anchored in its seafaring heritage while steering confidently toward a sustainable future.