Decommissioned in July 2022 after 38 years with the Irish Naval Service, Eithne has been laid up awaiting disposal since 2023.
LÉ Eithne was built at the Verolme dockyard in Cork harbour in 1984
The ship is named after Eithne, a tragic heroine and the daughter of the one-eyed Fomorian King, Balor in an early Irish romantic tale
Originally built as a Helicopter Patrol Vessel for long-range fisheries patrol vessel, intended to be at sea for up to 30 days. She was the only ship in her class, as the other planned members of the Eithne-class were never built
Cork County Council was interested in securing the vessel as a potential tourist attraction, but it was decided that the plan would not be viable.
This weekend, we bid a heartfelt farewell to #LÉEITHNE #P31 as she leaves Cork Harbour for the last time. For decades, she has been a symbol of strength & dedication. Her legacy will inspire future generations. Fair winds and following seas #LÉEITHNE. Slán & go raibh maith agat🇮🇪 pic.twitter.com/xTJMPIvHEW
— Irish Naval Service (@naval_service) June 1, 2024
