About The Causeway Shantymen
Hailing from the rugged North Coast, we have earned our reputation as seasoned seafarers whose shanties set hearts pounding—prompting audiences to stomp, holler, and ring in the rhythm by our second shanty. With our sails set for summer ’25 and new ports beckoning, we have already marked our journey with triumphant festival performances including Stendhal, Rosses Point Wild Atlantic Shanty Festival, Foyle Maritime Festival, Rathlin Sounds Festival, Greencastle Regatta Festival to name but a few.
Since Our Inception In 2023
Started by local Portrush man Barry Torrens—who later set sail for distant shores but remains our Commodore—we began with the simple aim of singing a few shanties to pass the tide. Since then, we've evolved into a close-knit crew,
Anchored in Portballintrae, we now set sail on every journey buoyed by lasting friendships, bold adventures, and a vibrant passion that echoes the allure of a treasure chest brimming with rum.
Formed in March 2023, the Causeway Shantymen stand as a recognised society dedicated to enhancing mental health and positive wellbeing among adult men.
By reviving the age-old tradition of sea shanties, we engage our audiences and counter the effects of rural isolation and loneliness—a significant challenge in our northern causeway coastal region and the surrounding rural communities from which our members originate. Singing together serves as a time-honored therapeutic practice, bringing us closer and bolstering our collective spirit.
More About Wellbing
Garth Anderson
Garth, our engagement mate, steers performance bookings and stokes on-deck mischief. An original crewman, he's reviving his folk shanty days and reawakening his performing flair.
Chris MillarÂ
Chris, our Captain and musical navigator leads the crew in rehearsals and live bawlin’ performances. He’s been in a few choir crews in his day but has now settled singing shanties.
Mark Breen
Mark is our current Chairman and has been in involved with the Shantymen almost from the inception. He enjoys the camaraderie of the group and was formally a drummer.
