Friends of Coney Island

Formed at the 2024 Wild Atlantic Shanty Festival at Rosses Point in County Sligo in Ireland, the Friends of Coney Island began when members of two shanty groups joined forces exclusively for the festival weekend. What started as a one-off collaboration quickly became a highlight of the festival. 

Now entering their third season together, the group brings energy, harmony, humour, and plenty of audience participation to every performance. With a huge depth of musical talent and experience, Friends of Coney Island perform a lively mix of traditional sea shanties and maritime folk songs that capture the spirit of the Atlantic coast.

From powerful work songs to rousing sing-along choruses, the group celebrates the enduring tradition of shanty singing while keeping the songs of the sea alive for new audiences.