Maratacht, situated on Ireland’s southernmost isle, Cape Clear Island, is a transformative expedition wherein adolescents immerse themselves in an array of marine-centred activities and the Irish language. As Ireland’s single offshore residential camp for teenagers concentrating on marine and Irish language matters, it furnishes a distinctive experience. The intimate surroundings of this camp, limited to 25 attendees, encourages individual growth.
Sustainability is at the heart of Maratacht, with a focus on mindful utilisation of resources and reverence for the environment – values that are lived every day on this tiny island. It’s the optimal destination for youth who are earnestly curious about marine matters, ecology, history and fluency in the Irish language. Maratacht sees it’s role as nurturing the leaders of tomorrow in the fields of sustainability and marine sciences. Understanding that some may find the language challenging, Irish is spoken daily and each participant is boosted and motivated to use whatever Irish they know, however they are able. Everyone will possess their own dictionary by the end of their stay.
Recreational activities aren’t limited to linguistic learning. Attendees will engage in water sports including kayaking, snorkelling, swimming, stand-up paddle boarding, fishing, and voyages focusing on marine ecology. South Harbour’s magnificent cliff coastline, complete with caves and a sea arch, affords opportunities to encounter marine mammals, seabirds such as fulmars and gannets, and a plethora of underwater creatures. The camp aims to be more than just a good time – it serves as a pathway to hands-on learning about marine subjects like tidal activity, weather patterns, and the influence of ecology.
Cooperative learning is prioritised at Maratacht. Working in concert and learning mutual support is crucial. A communal discussion takes place when participants arrive, during which everyone can voice their interests and expectations for the camp. Every moment, whether spent in aquatic activities or research work, is a chance to learn and develop. Each group will access a personalised Maratacht online app, allowing them to fill out diaries, retrieve data, engage in project discussions and upload results for future reference. Parents report noticeable improvements in their teenager’s self-assurance and invaluable life and learning skills post-camp.
Adhering to the fresh second-level curriculum modules, the camp merges ESD into its activities. Attendees delve deeply into marine and Irish language subjects, refining research skills, learning to use equipment and how to accurately identify, catalogue and organise data. With daily documentation and online resources, individuals enhance skills and their awareness of their environmental stewardship duties. In this way, Maratacht is proud to align itself with the UN’s sustainable development goals (SDGs).
Maratacht programmes are avid supporters of UN SDGs 13, 14 and 15, operating summer camps that contribute to global endeavours for a sustainable planet. By taking an active role in their activities, participants grasp the effects of climate change on marine habitats. Our adventures in marine ecology, coupled with conservation conversations, motivate young minds to champion climate initiatives within their local surroundings. Maratacht underlines the significance of maintaining marine biodiversity through activities such as snorkelling, studying rocky shore ecosystems, exploring fishing traditions and engaging in conversations on sustainable fishing techniques like lobster trapping or pollock and mackerel jigging. This engagement advances participants’ comprehension of marine ecosystems and develops a sense of responsibility towards the ocean and its denizens.
The summer camp’s immersive experience educates attendees on the connection between land and sea ecosystems. The interactive teaching method and fieldwork expose the importance of conserving land, restoring habitats, and preserving biodiversity. Maratacht’s commitment to these UN objectives empowers youth to become benefactors of change, arming them with the necessary acumen and capabilities to navigate environmental issues and nurture a sustainable future for forthcoming generations.
Maratacht’s immersive teenage residential camps usher in an era of exploration with three one-week events arranged from June 16th to July 13th. Nestled within the former coastguard station, Tír na nÓg, attendees bask in picturesque South Harbour views from dormitory-style accommodations, top-notch kitchen facilities and round-the-clock supervision.
Cape Clear, a quaint island, stretching three by one miles, offers breathtaking sea cliffs and views of the Atlantic. The island’s modest community provides a scarcely imaginable liberty and space for young minds. Every individual’s autonomy flourishes on the Cape, the journey commencing with the boat ride from Baltimore. The 50-minute voyage to the Cape is akin to a refreshing inhale. It’s not merely a physical journey but an emotional odyssey that facilities self-centering. Water sports activities and restful chats with friends on the wall reinforce this connection to nature. With the guidance of Garda-vetted leaders and senior instructors, participants gain vast knowledge about nature. Doctorate level guest speakers and guides offer a wealth of experience while master mariners provide insightful understanding about sea navigation and transportation.
For further details, head over to maratacht.ie or drop us an email at [email protected]. Stay updated with @maratacht on platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and X, previously known as Twitter.