Sea Shanties, Safety And Song: The Causeway Shantymen’s Busy Year

The Causeway Shantymen – a crew of self-styled salty seadogs – have described 2025 as one of their busiest and most rewarding years yet, with performances stretching across the Causeway Coast and as far as the Wild Atlantic in Sligo.

The group are more than just singers. The Causeway Shantymen describe themselves as a well-being organisation, using the practice and performance of sea shanties to uplift the lives of rurally isolated men in coastal communities. Weekly rehearsals, held outside the summer season, provide companionship and structure for the singers, while performances often take place in settings where audiences have well-being and health needs.

From the outset, The Causeway Shantymen have also set their course alongside the RNLI, serving as official Water Safety Ambassadors. They are proud to be fundraisers for the charity, lending their voices at events where collections and support go directly to the lifesaving organisation. At festivals and community gatherings, they also share the RNLI’s vital “Float To Live” message, helping to raise awareness about safety at sea.

This summer has seen The Causeway Shantymen perform in bustling town centres and lively festivals. They recently returned from the Greencastle Regatta Festival in Donegal, while June marked their first-ever performance in Coleraine town centre, where hundreds gathered to listen and many said afterwards how much they enjoyed the music. 

Appearing at the Wild Atlantic Shanty Festival in Sligo was another standout moment, which members say showed their reach beyond their home patch of the Causeway Coast and Glens.

Their growing profile has also brought moments of recognition. During a royal visit to Belfast’s Commercial Court, The Causeway Shantymen were introduced to King Charles III and Queen Camilla – an encounter they described as humbling and unforgettable.

The group have also launched a new website, giving audiences a way to follow their journey, learn about upcoming performances and stay connected with their work.

Chris Miller, Captain and Musical Navigator, said:

“Our music is the sail, but the heart of it is camaraderie. The friendships forged in rehearsal and on stage are what carry us forward – and that sense of connection reaches our audiences too.”

Chairman Mark Breen added:

“Sea shanties belong to everyone. Whether we’re at a festival, in a town centre or a community hall, you can feel the lift it gives people.”

As Engagement Officer, Garth Anderson, reflected:

“This has been an incredible season for us. To fundraise for the RNLI, to meet Their Majesties, and to share sea shanties far and wide has been a privilege. With more gigs to come and our website now live, we’re excited for what lies ahead.”

Although it is only August, The Causeway Shantymen say there are plenty more ports of call on their horizon before the year is out – proof that the salty seadogs of the Causeway still have wind in their sails.