← All events
family · Tuesday 7 July 2026 · Various - camp runs Tuesday to Thursday 
Oceans of Discovery Marine Summer Camp - Crosshaven 2026
At Camden Fort Meagher and Fountainstown Beach · Crosshaven, Co. Cork
At Camden Fort Meagher and Fountainstown Beach · Crosshaven, Co. Cork
A three-day marine camp on Cork Harbour is a different proposition from the average summer activity week. Oceans of Discovery runs children aged 8 to 12 through a full coastal curriculum - history, snorkelling, wildlife, and sea safety - across three distinct locations in and around Crosshaven. It suits kids who are comfortable outdoors and curious about the sea, though the water activities are designed to be accessible at all swimming abilities, so you don’t need a confident swimmer to sign up.
Each three-day block follows a clear shape. Day one is based at Camden Fort Meagher, the Victorian coastal fortification that guards the entrance to Cork Harbour. Campers tackle a scavenger hunt through the fort’s underground tunnels and galleries, take part in team building challenges, and get an introduction to the harbour’s military and maritime history. Day two moves to Fountainstown Beach for paddleboarding, snorkelling, and rock pool exploration - lifejackets are provided throughout and activities are supervised so no one goes out of their depth. Day three is the sea safari: a high-speed RIB run on the harbour, marine education, and a first aid introduction. Groups are small, capped at between 12 and 30 participants per camp. The day runs 10:00 to 15:00 throughout. Bring a packed lunch, water, and a wetsuit if you have one (they’re not supplied but are recommended for beach day).
Crosshaven sits roughly 25 km south of Cork City on the eastern shore of Cork Harbour. Drive the N25 out of the city then pick up the R612 south through Carrigaline - it’s a straightforward run of about 35 minutes. There is no direct public transport to Crosshaven village; the nearest Bus Eireann services run to Carrigaline, from where a taxi or lift is needed for the final stretch. On-site parking is available at Camden Fort Meagher (free), and Fountainstown Beach has a car park that fills quickly on warm summer mornings.
Crosshaven is one of the harbour towns that rewards a longer look - Royal Cork Yacht Club (founded 1720, the oldest in the world) anchors the village, and the cliff walk above the harbour gives views across to Spike Island and Haulbowline. There is more to see in Crosshaven and across Co. Cork.
Heading to Camden Fort Meagher and Fountainstown Beach in Crosshaven? Cork has plenty more to see. Read the Crosshaven area guide, find what else is on, and explore the towns and villages nearby.