Wow...never seen that before.

Monday 6th August.

Our very last day here in Ireland, sad really as this has been a wonderful experience and the Irish throughout Ireland have all been so helpful and friendly. And apart from the odd days in Northern Ireland, the weather has been exceptional.

So as this was our last day and because I had expressed a wish to see the famine ship in New Ross at the beginning of this remarkable adventure 6 weeks ago, that is where we made for.

Having had a wonderfully peaceful night, surprising as we were so close to the road, (must be because it is a bank holiday) we took our time in getting away, mainly because we think we have a slow puncture. Ian bought a small compressor before we left Langley Mill and it came in very useful in putting air into the tyre.

It was late morning before we arrived at New Ross. Dunbrody Famine Ship is an authentic reproduction of an 1840’s emigrant vessel (the actual ship sank off the shores of Newfoundland) and it gives an insight to the emigrants experience.

The bucket was the only loo facilities they had below deck and had to be shared between 10 people. The brassiere was for the use one person per family to cook their meagre meal. The only time anyone in steerage class was allowed on deck!

Galley on deck for crew and first class passengers.

Steerage class. Each bunk had to sleep up to 6 people.

First class

The tour by the guide took about 45 minutes and after a coffee back at the Beast, made the final 60km drive to Rosslare.

Arriving about 2.30pm we pulled into the 24-hour parking at the Ferry terminal. Our sailing is at 8am in the morning. Suddenly we hear the sound of a steam locomotive. Looking across the car park and just pulling into New Ross station was the loco. We did no more than grab the camera and race toward the station for a look. And as we got nearer the locomotive pulled away from the carriages and onto.....A TURNTABLE. Now I have seen plenty of these turning devices in the UK but never have I seen one in action. Camera at the ready it was a sight to behold watching this in action.

To both of us, this was the highlight of our Irish experience and one I never expect to see again.

A very early start tomorrow, need to be at check-in before 7am, but at least all we have to do is drive a few hundred yards to join the queue.