Seabird is a classic Scottish ringnetter, which is a type of fishing boat, which was built in the 1960s. Our charity, Citizen Sea, was inspired when the late Newry born shipwright Tony McLoughlin, and the Marine Biologist, Jen Firth of Strangford Lough region, found her and visioned the vessel as a citizen science ambassador for the marine environment in Northern Ireland.

During the covid era and since, she has deteriorated.

We are on a mission to restore her hull and refit her to better suit both the way she moves (from dirty diesel to sail and electric propulsion), and to allow for scientific research while aboard. We are presently seeking support to cover costs associated with the initial work and keeping her where we she presently is in the Belfast Harbour estate.

We are an almost entirely volunteer charity. We seek to engage our volunteers and the public with our local waters and raise awareness of our marine environment. This often includes training and events aligned to benefit our volunteers.

All the while we are seeking funding from local businesses, Heritage Lottery and more. But presently we are strapped for needed income to keep some basic work, and the rental fees covered.

Any assistance is greatly appreciated! Thank you very much for your support and for believing in this project.