Bloodthirsty buccaneers and buried treasure, fierce sea battles and cold-blooded murders, Barbary ducats and silver pieces of eight.
Des Ekin embarks on a roadtrip around the entire coast of Ireland, in search of our piratical heritage, uncovering an amazing history of swashbuckling bandits, both Irish-born and imported.
Ireland’s Pirate Trail tells stories of freebooters and pirates from every corner of our coast over a thousand years, including famous pirates like Anne Bonny and William Lamport, who set off to ply their trade in the Caribbean. Ekin also debunks many myths about our most well-known sea warrior, Granuaile, the ‘Pirate Queen’ of Mayo. Thoroughly researched and beautifully told. Filled with exciting untold stories.
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excellent popular studies
" - Irish Times
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Irish history is traditionally seen in the context of the gradual conquest of the Gaelic Irish. Its story of piracy has not in the main inspired historians to put pen to paper. Des Ekin has risen to the challenge. We really do not hear much about Irish pirates … until now, no-one has compiled a full history of the subject. Des Ekin's book Ireland's Pirate Trail addresses this gap - and the details will surprise a lot of people … an interesting read, both as a travelogue and as a piece of history that has been overlooked
" - rte.ie/culture
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the book is absolutely fascinating
" - Newstalk’s Pat Kenny Show
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Des Ekin sets out on a road trip along the coast of Ireland, in search of our piratical heritage. Stopping in historical villages and well known towns, he uncovers an amazing history of swashbuckling bandits. Ireland is steeped in history and this little known part of our past is a gem to engross yourself in. From taking part in America’s fight for independence to tales and myths of Granuaile herself, Des Ekin pulls you into these stories and doesn’t let go.
" - Dubray Books Recommended Reads
