Around 1,000 people each day visited the replica Jeanie Johnston famine ship at Fenit outside Tralee this weekend, during the ship's first free open days since the announcement that it would not undertake its transatlantic voyage this year.
Response from the public was overwhelmingly positive, with the comment books full of admiration for the "brilliant workmanship".
The ship's internal work is now almost complete. A variety of wood has been used - in all around 480 tonnes of timber, with the frame alone consisting of 100 tonnes of Irish oak.
The ship, which has been dogged by delays and financial worries, is expected to sail around Ireland shortly.
The sails are ready, the engines and wheel are fitted, although some electrical work is unfinished. The ship will be licensed to carry a total of 40 passengers and crew as a Class A sail-training vessel.
It is hoped the ship will complete its transatlantic voyage next year.
The interest this weekend was a boost for the staff, Ms Ann Martin, Publicity Officer said.
The cost of the project so far is £10 million. Local authorities in Kerry have commitments of around £5 million; the Department of the Marine has committed over £3 million.