Causeway Shantymen: From Royal Performances To Lifesaving Partnerships

"Heave away, boys!" echoed around Portballintrae Boat Club on 16th April as the Causeway Shantymen gathered for their annual meeting, reflecting on a year that saw them perform for royalty and raise vital funds for lifesaving services.

The maritime singing group, known for their rousing sea shanties along the North Coast, reached a crescendo in their performances when they sang for King Charles and Queen Camilla during a royal visit to Belfast.

"It was a highlight of our year," said the group's chairman. "King Charles even joined in during our rendition of 'Drunken Sailor' – a moment none of us will forget."

Between verses and choruses, the Shantymen have been busy supporting the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI), with their fundraising efforts helping to maintain the expensive equipment needed for rescues at sea.

Portrush Lifeboat Operations Manager Beni McAllister paid tribute to the group's impact: "The positivity these guys bring is unbelievable. Every hour our boat's in motion burns nearly £500 in fuel, and we rely entirely on donations. These men are true ambassadors for our cause."

The Shantymen's performances have taken them across Northern Ireland, from the prestigious Derry Choral Festival to local community venues. Their traditional sea songs have featured on BBC Radio Ulster broadcasts and drawn appreciative audiences at numerous public events throughout the region.

Their maritime journey shows no signs of slowing, with upcoming performances planned at St Columb's Cathedral and an invitation to perform on a cruise ship arriving Belfast. The group is also exploring opportunities to participate in shanty festivals as far afield as Poland and Tuscany.

Amid the celebrations, there was a poignant moment as members remembered their fellow shanty singer Danny, who passed away during the year.

"It puts everything into perspective," reflected the chairman. "We're about camaraderie and enjoyment, but also looking after each other."

As they sail into another year of performances, the Causeway Shantymen continue their mission of keeping maritime musical traditions alive while supporting the community that keeps watch over our coastline.