Bantry (Beanntraí) lies at the head of Bantry Bay, a deep-water gulf bordered by the Beara peninsula to the north, and the Sheep’s Head peninsula to the south. Whiddy and Bere Island are the two main islands. Bantry has a long maritime tradition, and has an association with the sixth-century saint Breandán (Naomh Bréanainn) the Navigator. Tradition has it that Saint Breandán was the first person to discover America. Bantry Bay has been the site of major events in Irish history. The Battle of Bantry Bay was fought in 1689 between the French and English fleets. In 1796 Wolfe Tone and the French Navy attempted to land an army to liberate Ireland from English rule, but could not land due to terrible weather. Wolfe Tone was a founder of the United Irishmen and was a unifying force within the movement. His legacy is a cornerstone of the Irish Republic and Bantry Square is named in his honour. Bantry and Whiddy Island were the location of a thriving pilchard-fishing industry in the 17th century. Bantry was serviced by a railway from 1881-1961, and a large cattle mart was held in Bantry Square on the first Friday of each month. Today, Bantry Market is held on the same day and is one of the largest in West Cork. Mussel-farming is now a major business in the bay and tourism is a large part of the local economy. Bantry Harbour has a long history of use and it's history and nautical navigation are discussed in depth on Michael Harpur's excellent eoceanic.com site, which is linked below.
External Links:
https://eoceanic.com/sailing/harbours/62