The Irish Cruising Club continued its long-standing tradition of hosting its Annual Dinner over the weekend of 21 March at the lakeside Lough Erne Resort Hotel in County Fermanagh.
Hosted by Commodore Alan Markey and organised by the Club’s Northern Committee, led by Vice Commodore Julie Chambers, the event brought together 171 members and guests for a weekend of celebration, storytelling and shared sailing heritage.
Among those in attendance was Michael Clarke, Admiral of Lough Erne Yacht Club, whose connection to the ICC dates back to 1961. His early cruising experience included a memorable circumnavigation of Ireland aboard the 18ft Waverley OD Durward, still recognised as the smallest keelboat to have completed the voyage.
The event also reflected the ICC’s strong international connections, with visiting representatives from leading cruising organisations including the Royal Cruising Club, Cruising Club of America, the Ocean Cruising Club and the Clyde Cruising Club.
A highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Friendship Cup, awarded annually by the Cruising Club of America to recognise outstanding contributions to international cruising collaboration. This year’s recipient was Alan Leonard of Strangford Lough, a long-standing ICC member and former Flag Officer.
Leonard was recognised for decades of engagement with the international cruising community, particularly through his connections with sailors in the United States. His sailing history includes a transatlantic passage from Cape Cod in 1977, culminating in a perfectly timed landfall at Strangford Lough- a story that remains part of ICC folklore.
Blending tradition, camaraderie and global connections, the 2026 Annual Dinner once again highlighted the enduring spirit of cruising within the Irish sailing community.