Celtic Mist, the yacht that was previously owned by the late former taoiseach Charles Haughey, has opened to the public in Dublin.

The 56 ft ketch was donated to the Irish Whale and Dolphin Group (IWDG) for marine research in 2011.

It went on display as part of Dublin Port’s anniversary celebrations, marking 300 years since the decision to build the Great South Wall and the beginning of the present day port.

Visitors get a chance to see the high tech equipment used by the IWDG scientists to study marine life in Ireland and to learn about marine conservation.

Dublin Port Company said a number of unique historical maps of Dublin Port that show exactly how the port developed from the 17th century to the present day have been located in its archive. The maps will go on display to the public later this year.

Great South Wall

Eamonn O’Reilly, chief executive of Dublin Port Company, said he is proud to celebrate 300 years of the Great South Wall.

The wall, which is a protected structure, was built in the late 18th century to protect a shipping navigation channel from the encroachment of the sandbank at Sandymount, and originally extended for more than three km.

“This iconic structure has sheltered, protected and played a defining role in shaping Dublin Bay and Dublin Port over the centuries, becoming a city landmark in its own right,” he said.

Mr O’Reilly said the luxury cruise ship the MSC Splendida will come to Dublin Port on May 11th.

At 333m long, he said it is the largest ship to have ever called to Dublin Port.