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Ocean Knowledge to Drive Coastal Business Success - Celebrating European Maritime Day 2025 in Cobh

As part of European Maritime Day (EMD) In My Country 2025, Coastal Success Through Ocean Knowledge brought together marine experts, business leaders, policymakers, and students for an evening of exchange, creativity, and coastal collaboration.

Organised under the umbrella of the EU4Ocean initiative, the event was the result of a partnership between EurOcean, JPI Oceans, EuroGOOS, EMSEA, the Marine Institute, the Cobh and Harbour Chamber, and the Port of Cork. The programme featured a high-profile panel discussion, an interactive creative workshop for Transition Year students, and a lively networking session along Cobh’s iconic quays.

The evening kicked off with a warm welcome from Toddy Stafford, President of the Cobh & Harbour Chamber, followed by opening remarks from Ruth Higgins of the European Centre for Information on Marine Science and Technology. Keynote speaker Majbritt Bolton-Warberg, Blue Economy Programme Manager at the Marine Institute, offered valuable insights into how sustainable ocean practices benefit the business community.

The expert panel included:

  • Liam Curran, Senior Technologist, Enterprise Ireland

  • Dr. Jessica Giannoumis, Ireland Aquatech Community Manager, Hatch Blue

  • Cian Ryan, Project Manager, Green Rebel

Together, they explored actionable opportunities for SMEs in coastal regions to thrive within the expanding blue economy.

While the panel discussed policy and innovation, TY students took part in a hands-on zine-making workshop using art and storytelling to explore Cobh’s coastal identity, ocean literacy, and sustainability. These creative expressions will feed into a wider dialogue around community-led climate action.

The evening wrapped up with a spirited Networking Bingo session on the quayside, sparking meaningful connections between local entrepreneurs, marine professionals, and civic leaders.

The conversation will continue through a post-event report titled “Pathways to Coastal Success”. Set to be released in the coming weeks and officially launched at the Chamber’s Summer Networking Event on 19 June, held aboard a cruise around Cork Harbour.

For more information, contact info@cobhharbourchamber.ie.