The upper reaches of the Shannon are formed by the junction of the Boyle and Shannon rivers. Meeting just North of Carrick, you can cruise right to their sources in Lough Key and through the narrow tree lined canal to Lough Allen.

The choices around Carrick are immense and its appeal is the bustling town of Carrick itself as well as numerous moorings and villages all within easy distance of each other:

North to Leitrim village will take you onto the Shannon-Erne waterway and in a gentle three days to our Base at Belturbet.

Downstream lies the water wonderland of winding rivers and lakes, as the Shannon grows in size. You will discover the mysterious reed beds and channels in Carnadoe, Kilglass and Grange. Lough Ree, a wilder, larger lake, offers some of the best pike fishing in Ireland. Golf courses at Glasson and Hodson Bay near Athlone welcome visitors (ask us to book your round for you).

Athlone is one of the larger towns in Ireland. The moorings (6 euros a night) in the centre of town are ideal for the excellent shopping as well as visiting the old fort. Continuing south you would reach Portumna, our southern Base.

Cruise suggestions :

One week out and back cruises :

Carrick on Shannon - Shannonbridge and back
240 km, 4 locks, 2 lift bridges

Carrick on Shannon - Ballyconnell and back
96 km, 14 locks

One week, one way cruises :

Carrick on Shannon - Belturbet or vice-versa
75 km, 16 locks

Carrick on Shannon - Portumna or vice-versa
160 km, 5 locks, 2 lift bridges

Belturbet

You can either go northwards onto Lough Erne where Enniskillen is 4 hours away and onto the Lower Lake at Belleek. There are spectacular coastlines and islands, and several short walks to scenic viewing points. Places of outstanding interest are the Marble Arch Caves, Florencecourt, Castle Coole, Crom Estate and the Belleek Pottery.

Alternatively the newly restored Shannon-Erne waterway along the gently winding Woodford river towards Ballyconnell, Ballinamore, Keshcarrigan – all traditional Irish villages - and finally our Base at Carrick-on-Shannon, touching the pretty lakes of Coologe, and Derrycassan, is a very relaxing way to spend your time.

Whichever way you go, you can be sure of a fine, warm Irish welcome in the Pubs and restaurants that can be found along your chosen route! Take time to enjoy the atmosphere and relax in the pleasant and comfortable surroundings.

Cruise suggestions : 

One week out and back cruises : 

Belturbet - Carrick on Shannon and back
150 km, 16 locks

Belturbet - Belleek and back
130 km, no locks
 

One week, one way cruise : 

Belturbet - Carrick on Shannon or vice-versa
75 km, 16 locks

Our Portumna base is located at the Northern tip of Lough Derg. This vast lake is almost 40km long and 18km wide at its widest point.

Terryglass, Dromineer, Garrykennedy or Mountshannon are all recommended moorings and provide delightful stopovers.

This lake nestles in the midst of grassy hills and the landscapes are lush and green up to your last stage, Killaloe is a small sailing harbour at the Southern tip of Lough Derg. Further upstream, the Shannon makes its way peacefully between embankments dotted with grazing herds.

Do not miss the famous monastic settlement of Clonmacnois, founded in 545AD, then continue your cruise towards the dynamic country town of Athlone.

Cruise suggestions : 

One week out and back cruises : 

Portumna - Killaloe and back
112 km, no locks

Portumna to Roosky and back
290 km, 4 locks, 1 lift bridge
 

One week, one way cruise : 

Portumna - Carrick on Shannon or vice-versa
160 km, 5 locks, 2 lift bridges