Dublin is set to welcome the return of a unique visitor this August as MV Logos Hope, known as the world’s largest floating book fair, arrives at North Wall Quay.
The ship will open its doors to the public from 9–16 August 2026, offering visitors the chance to explore thousands of books, meet an international volunteer crew, and experience life aboard one of the world’s most unusual vessels.
Operated by the non-profit organisation GBA Ships e.V., Logos Hope travels the world with a mission of sharing “knowledge, help and hope” with communities across the globe. Since 1970, the organisation’s ships have visited more than 150 countries and territories, welcoming millions of visitors onboard.
The Dublin visit marks a return to the capital for Logos Hope, following a previous visit in 2009 that saw thousands of people step aboard.
Visitors will have access to a selection of more than 5,000 book titles, covering a wide range of interests including science and technology, sports and hobbies, arts and cookery, medicine, languages, personal development, children’s books, dictionaries and atlases.
Alongside the book fair, the ship’s visitor experience deck offers more activities to explore, including an introduction area featuring interactive displays and a short film about Logos Hope’s global work. Guests can also visit the onboard Hope Café, offering refreshments, snacks and ice cream in a relaxed multicultural setting.
Visitors will also have the opportunity to take part in a number of special onboard events during the ship’s stay in Dublin. On 9 August, Stories of Hope will see members of the international crew share inspiring personal stories and experiences from their time serving around the world.
On Saturday, 15 August, Family Day will bring a programme of fun children’s activities throughout the day at the book fair. In the evening, visitors can enjoy Meet the World, a colourful celebration of the ship’s international community featuring cultural performances and traditional dances from crew members representing countries across the globe.
One of the highlights for many visitors is the opportunity to meet members of the ship’s crew. Logos Hope is home to more than 300 volunteers from over 60 nations, who work together to operate the vessel and support its community-focused mission.
The crew includes people from a wide variety of backgrounds, including seafarers, engineers, teachers, medical staff and hospitality teams. Volunteers serve onboard for extended periods, contributing their time and skills as the ship travels between international ports.
Following its Dublin visit, Logos Hope will continue its Irish tour with stops in Cork from 18–24 August and Belfast from 1–21 October.
The ship will be docked at Berth 18, North Wall Quay, Dublin, and will be open to the public during the following hours:
- Tuesday–Friday: 1pm–10pm
- Saturday: 10am–10pm
- Sunday: 1pm–10pm
- Monday: Closed
Entry costs €2 per person, with free admission for children under 12 and adults aged 65 and over.
Whether visitors come for the books, the international atmosphere, or simply the chance to step aboard a ship with a remarkable global story, Logos Hope offers Dubliners a rare opportunity to experience a floating book fair unlike any other.
More info: www.om.org/ie/dublin
Instagram: @om_ireland
