The Transition Years enjoyed a trip to Haulbowline Naval Base in Cobh, Co Cork.
The Naval Base is situated on the island of Haulbowline, beside the better known Spike island, once used as a prison, now disused. Upon crossing the bridge to get to the base, they had to cross a smaller island know as Rocky island which was once a major British storage area holding 25,000 barrels of gunpowder, currently the island hold one of Ireland's few crematoriums. When they entered the base through the barricaded enterance, they were met by their tourguides two Leading Seamen. They were brought aboard the Flagship the Eithne firstly. After a tour from stern to bow they were brought to the tactical training center where they got a chance to talk to a highly experienced member teaching there. They were then brought to see some of the larger weaponry which is used aboard the navy's ships, the students were given the oppertunity to use a training simulator of one of these weapons.
Following that they enjoyed a meal in the highly modern messhall.
After the meal they were brought to see the Cadet training facility, the Officer's messhall & Naval Headquarters.
For the final part of the tour they were brought to the highest point the communications tower where they were given the history of the island and the harbour.
The day was enjoyed by all.
.jpg)
