The large fishing boat, originally built in Brittany, France, was called "Ami Des Flots" (Friend of the Waves). At some point its name was changed to Cara Na Mara (Friend of the sea), before finally being called Bád Eddie after its final owner. In 1977 it came ashore for minor repairs and remained there for unknown reasons.

The shipwreck is best known for featuring in Bono and Clannad's 1985 hit song In A Lifetime in which it was struck by lightning. It has also featured in Vogue magazine. Michael Moore also stated it was his view of the ship that inspired him to finish his book ‘Dude Where’s my Country’.