About Shannon and Erne

Feel the irresistible lure of the Shannon-Erne

The River Shannon gives central Ireland it's unique character. It’s an obvious feature if you study a Shannon River map. At a glance, it’s clear that the waters influence the land. The fishing is superb and golf is extremely popular! As you travel, you’ll stop in quaint villages, why not explore the medieval churches and kick back in the pubs!

 

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If you are unable to find your perfect holiday on our website please contact our Boating Experts who may be able to help create a bespoke offering for you.

Shannon and Erne map

Shannon and Erne Region map

 = Le Boat Base           = Canal           = Navigable river           = No navigation beyond this point

The perfect boating region for...

Golf

Golf Clubs with blurred background

If you love golf you'll love golfing on the Shannon-Erne. Choose from six world-class golf courses and include golf breaks in your Shannon-Erne cruises. Tee off at the 18-hole golf course at the Slieve Russell Hotel in Ballyconnell. Then relax with a pint at the 19th hole!

Fishing

Child fishing

The Shannon-Erne is perfect for fishing holidays! Go for pike, perch, roach, bream and rudd. The Lower Lough Erne is famous for its hefty brown trout, and Upper Lough Erne is a pike angler’s nirvana! Carrick-on-Shannon ranks as one of Ireland’s top coarse fishing centres!

History & Heritage

Portumna Castle

Monastery ruins, medieval churches and stately castles are seen around every corner on the Shannon-Erne history holidays. Let the ruins of Clonmacnoise (circa 6th century) impress you! Not to be missed are the Brian Boru Heritage Centre, Portumna Castle and the Carrigglas Manor.

Nature Lovers

Brown bird

The fields, bogs and islands of the Shannon-Erne exude serenity as you watch ducks, geese, terns, coots and Great-crested grebes. Trekking trails meander through parkland and invite you to stroll in Nature. Bullock Island near Shannon Harbour beckons for bird-watching!

Useful information

Download our Region Guide

Check out our region guideWe've produced a handy PDF guide for this region to give you an overview of all the stops and things to do along the waterway.

Download our region guide

Le Boat in Ireland is known as Emerald Star. If you book outside of Ireland, although your booking will be with Le Boat, when you arrive in Ireland, our boats proudly display our Emerald Star brand. But worry not, you will still receive the same great service that your would get from any of our Le Boat bases elsewhere. Emerald Star are Ireland's Number One boating holiday provider and have been operating on the Rivers Shannon and Erne for nearly 50 years - your holiday is in safe hands.

The Irish coast rises tallish from the sea, and yet the terrain drops farther inland, creating a sort of cup where the water gathers. One fifth of the water drains inward to the Shannon River, Ireland’s largest at 360 kilometres (224 miles). The fall on the navigable middle section of the river is slight at only 9 metres (29 feet), which means the water moves slowly. A Shannon River map also reveals the large number of lakes in the Shannon system, a real plus for canal boat cruising!

 

Taking a look at a Shannon-Erne waterway map highlights the pretty stretch of the Shannon-Erne Canal. This passage links up the two canal systems of the Shannon and Erne rivers, thus accounting for its rather uncreative name. The canal is 63 kilometres (39 miles) and runs from Leitrim Village to Upper Lough. It has 18 locks and is as stunning as it is tranquil.

The Shannon-Erne Canal is interestingly both old and new. As early as 1838, efforts were made to survey a route to link the Shannon and Erne rivers, and today’s canal follows the path set out at that time. The canal project had some false starts, but the waterway eventually opened in 1860. The railroads promptly killed it. In nine years, only eight boats used it! The canal was closed. In 1991, work began to open the canal for pleasure boats and three years later the canal was back!

We've partnered up with some of the best local businesses from the towns and villages along the River Shannon to help you get the most out of your Le Boat holiday.

Discover our range of exclusive offers, only available to Le Boat customers. 

Cruising on the Shannon-Erne is easy and suitable for beginners. However, you should pay careful attention to your navigation during windy weather on open waters. You will be required to view a video before departure. Fishing licences are required for all cruising areas except Carrick. The charge for a licence is about 7 euros per week.

 

Navigation restrictions: Please note that some of our boats cannot go on the Lough Allen Canal (between Carrick & Drumshanbo)  & Shannon Erne Canal, but the rest of the itinerary is not restricted: Vision3, Magnifique, Classique, Elegance, Crusader, Shannon star, Royal mystique 2, Caprice.

Take a look at our waterway and lock closures page to find out if there are any scheduled cruising restrictions that will affect your holiday plans.

Smart cards are needed to operate the 16 locks on the Shannon-Erne. They can be purchased for approximately 13 euros for 20 units at all our bases. Locks and bridges on the River Shannon are also charged at approximately 1.50 euros each. Lifejackets must be worn in the locks.

 

Opening hours: Locks are open Monday - Saturday 09:00-20:00 and Sundays 10:00-18:00.

 

Public holidays: Locks are closed on some public holidays. All locks closed on: 1st November.

Moorings are plentiful on the Shannon-Erne.

To find out how to get to each of our bases in this boating region, as well as what facilities and amenities are available at each base or nearby, click on the relevant base below:

  • Hire of the boat and its onboard equipment
  • A fully equipped kitchen
  • Towels and linen for all passengers
  • A boat handling demonstration prior to departure
  • Technical support
  • On-board maps and visitor information
  • Optional holiday extras (find out more
  • Boat damage waiver (find out more)
  • Running costs (diesel, gas, engine wear and tear) - charged by the engine hour (find out more)
  • Passage through locks (small fee applies - payable locally)
  • Travel to and from the base(s)
  • Waterside serevices if you use them (i.e. moorings where a charge is applicable, pump-out if needed, water, etc)
  • Cancellation plan & any travel/personal insurance
  • Food and drink

Interactive map of the Shannon & Erne

Bases = Le Boat / Emerald Star base  Chateau = Point of interest

Great to see…

Altough it is a small village, Belleek is known for its history in china and porcelain production. Cycle around town and discover the Belleek pottery, founded in the 19th century. You may also enjoy a walk to the pretty Castle Caldwell at the west of the city.

Enniskillen is the biggest city of Fermanagh County. Downtown, have a walk and visit the magnificient Anglican Cathedral, St. Macartin. On the outskirts, there are pretty places like the gardens near the old fortified house in Tully Castle.

Welcome to Belturbet, a peaceful and welcoming town along the canal. Enter the city and have a walk downtown, to discover the beautiful Staghal Church. If you stay the night, you can dine in one of the many fine restaurants.

Welcome to Ballyconnell, a vibrant and picturesque town with a number of good restaurants and typical pubs downtown. The Tomregan church, aside the town, is a good place for a peaceful walk in pretty surroundings.

Ballinamore is a green and peaceful town with many activities on offer. Walk the hiking paths around the city, take to your bicycle or visit the equestrian centre.

Drumshanbo, located along the Shannon river is a typical Irish village, with a once-thriving iron-mining industry.  The city has a great religious past, and has three churches that you can visit. Around the lake, there are also beautiful walking paths.

Must see
Emerald Star in front of Castle Island in Lough Key

Lough Key is a beautiful, relaxed mooring offering the opportunity to chill out and explore. The Lough Key centre offers a number of activities for the whole family. There also is an adventure playground in the complex together with a unique and challenging adventure house for adults and children called Boda Borg.

A quiet and pretty little village straddling the canal. A good place to have a drink on the terrace, watching the river.

Carrick-On-Shannon is the largest town in County Leitrim. The ruins of the old Carrick Castle can be glimpsed on the Carrick Bridge. Stop in this pretty town and visit the great Saint-Mary's Church. Learn its history and discover its culture in the art centre.

This picturesque village is an important boating harbour on the River Shannon with many attractive mooring places. There are some lovely walks here, and really good spots for anglers.

Tarmonbarry is a welcoming town with many vestiges of the past. Discover the hidden Abbey in the church grounds, built in the twelth century or enjoy the sight of the great Carriglas Manor. If you stay for the night, enjoy the plentiful local pubs and restaurants.

In the small town of Lanesborough stands one of the oldest centres of Christianity in Longford, Saint-John's church, a beautiful building built on an older church dating from the 5th century.

Athlone, the capital of the Midlands, is a welcoming town. Come and discover its culture, especially Athlone Castle, built to defend the island against French attacks and then partially destroyed by a lightening strike in 1967. Take time to see the visitor centre and the beautiful landscapes over the river Shannon.

Must see

Clonmacnoise is a wonderful vestige of the past, lost in nature. Discover a great monastery, which was once the most famous of the island, before beeing destroyed by Athlone. Come here and discover many beautiful monuments, like the old monastery, the ruin of the cathedral and the pretty castle ruins too. The landscapes are here just marvelous.

Banagher is steeped in history. Come here and discover this peaceful and quiet town hiding many treasures of the past, like the old Castle Clonony. Head downtown and visit the pretty Saint-Paul's church.

Situated at the head of Lough Derg, Portumna is one of Galway's most attractive towns and is famous for Portumna Castle, a unique example of the transitional Irish architecture of the early 1600s.

A pretty and welcoming village where you will enjoy having a rest. Have a break in one of the good restaurants. Terryglass is also the site of a 6th century monastic settlement, of which only a small part remains; but the area is very historic.

Near Dromineer, you will appreciate the sight of the 13th century ruined castle. Have a walk along the shore to observe the pretty landscapes on the river Shannon.

Welcome in Garykennedy, a quiet village that was once the residence of the powerful Kennedy family. Observe the old Kennedy Castle, and have a good time in the pubs downtown. There is also an access to the biggest lake of Ireland, the Lough Derg.

Mountshannon is a beautiful and scenic village. It was designed as a model village and completed in 1742. It's tree lined streets and the uniformity of its architecture give it a grace and dignity seldom seen in villages of comparable size.

Scariff is a major stopping point for boats upon the Shannon River. Although it is narrow and windy, the Scariff River, which winds its way through the town before joining Lough Derg, is easily navigable and is a quaint and enjoyable experience.

Killaloe and Ballina are two wonderful green villages separated by the river. Take time to have a walk on the old stone bridge and appreciate the amazing river views. The old roman catholic church is also worth a visit.

Route suggestions

To help you get an idea of how far you can travel in the time you have, here's a selection of routes to and from our bases in this region. You dont have to stop at all the places listed or follow the route exactly. So long as you return your boat to your end base by the date you've booked - you're free to enjoy your cruise however you like. For a comfortable pace, allowing you time to regularly stop and explore, we'd recommend an average of 2 - 4 hours cruising each day.

Cruising through lush, green countryside

Carrick-on-Shannon RETURN via Belleek

Carrick-on-Shannon
Leitrim-Village
Drumshanbo
Ballinamore
Ballyconnell
Belturbet
Enniskillen
Belleek
Carrick-on-Shannon

46 hr(s) of cruising

280km 36 locks 11 nights

Carrick-on-Shannon RETURN via Belleek

Scroll down using the grey bar to the right

Overview

You’re cruising in the heart of the Fermanagh Lakelands, and you see that Upper Lough Erne is a wonderland of lush green islands amidst a backdrop of blue. Having temporarily satiated your passion for angling, golf and cycling, you look forward to exploring Tully and Caldwell castles on the next phase of your boat holiday in Ireland!

Top highlights:

  • Carrick-on-Shannon's artistic history
  • The three churches of Drumshanbo
  • Ballyconnell's variety of food
  • Belleek's pottery tour

Example itinerary:

The following is only an example, you can explore this area in whichever order you want, so long as your boat is back at the end base at the end of your trip:

  • Carrick-on-Shannon: Carrick-On-Shannon is the largest town in County Leitrim. The ruins of the old Carrick Castle can be glimpsed on the Carrick Bridge. Stop in this pretty town and visit the great Saint-Mary's Church. Learn its history and discover its culture in the art centre.
  • Leitrim-Village: A quiet and pretty little village straddling the canal. A good place to have a drink on the terrace, watching the river.
  • Drumshanbo: Drumshanbo, located along the Shannon river is a typical Irish village, with a once-thriving iron-mining industry. The city has a great religious past, and has three churches that you can visit. Around the lake, there are also beautiful walking paths.
  • Ballinamore: Ballinamore is a green and peaceful town with many activities on offer. Walk the hiking paths around the city, hire a bike or visit the equestrian center.
  • Ballyconnell: Welcome to Ballyconnell, a vibrant and picturesque town with a number of good restaurants and typical pubs downtown. The Tomregan Church, aside the town, is a good place for a peaceful walk in pretty surroundings.
  • Belturbet: Welcome to Belturbet, a peaceful and welcoming town along the canal. Enter the city and have a walk downtown, to discover the beautiful Staghal Church. If you stay the night, you can dine in one of the many fine restaurants.
  • Enniskillen: Enniskillen is the biggest city of Fermanagh County. Downtown, have a walk and visit the magnificent Anglican Cathedral, St. Macartin. On the outskirts, there are pretty places like the gardens near the old fortified house in Tully Castle.
  • Belleek: Although it is a small village, Belleek is known for its history in china and porcelain production. Cycle around town and discover the Belleek pottery, founded in the 19th century. You may also enjoy a walk to the pretty Castle Caldwell to the west of the city.

 

46 hr(s) of cruising

280km 36 locks 11 nights
Enniskillen castle in Ireland

Carrick-on-Shannon RETURN via Enniskillen

Carrick-on-Shannon
Leitrim-Village
Drumshanbo
Ballinamore
Ballyconnell
Belturbet
Enniskillen
Carrick-on-Shannon

36 hr(s) of cruising

220km 34 locks 10 nights

Carrick-on-Shannon RETURN via Enniskillen

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Overview

You came for the world-famous Irish scenery you knew you’d find on a boat holiday in Ireland, a land where the fish bite and the 19th hole lures. You’ve already teed in Belturbet, and now you’re leisurely cruising northward on Upper Lough Erne to angle for dinner. Perch and Guinness anyone?

Top highlights:

  • Carrick-on-Shannon's artistic history
  • The three churches of Drumshanbo
  • The gardens and old fortified house of Enniskillen

Example itinerary:

The following is only an example, you can explore this area in whichever order you want, so long as your boat is back at the end base at the end of your holiday:

  • Carrick-on-Shannon: Carrick-On-Shannon is the largest town in County Leitrim. The ruins of the old Carrick Castle can be glimpsed on the Carrick Bridge. Stop in this pretty town and visit the great Saint-Mary's Church. Learn its history and discover its culture in the art centre.
  • Leitrim-Village: A quiet and pretty little village straddling the canal. A good place to have a drink on the terrace, watching the river.
  • Drumshanbo: Drumshanbo, located along the Shannon river is a typical Irish village, with a once-thriving iron-mining industry. The city has a great religious past, and has three churches that you can visit. Around the lake, there are also beautiful walking paths.
  • Ballinamore: Ballinamore is a green and peaceful town with many activities on offer. Walk the hiking paths around the city, take a bike or visit the equestrian centre.
  • Ballyconnell: Welcome to Ballyconnell, a vibrant and picturesque town with a number of good restaurants and typical pubs downtown. The Tomregan Church, aside the town, is a good place for a peaceful walk in pretty surroundings.
  • Belturbet: Welcome to Belturbet, a peaceful and welcoming town along the canal. Enter the city and have a walk downtown, to discover the beautiful Staghal Church. If you stay the night, you can dine in one of the many fine restaurants.
  • Enniskillen: Enniskillen is the biggest city of Fermanagh County. Downtown, have a walk and visit the magnificent Anglican Cathedral, St. Macartin. On the outskirts, there are pretty places like the gardens near the old fortified house in Tully Castle.

 

36 hr(s) of cruising

220km 34 locks 10 nights
Lough Key Castle on Lough Key

Carrick-on-Shannon RETURN via Belturbet

Carrick-on-Shannon
Leitrim-Village
Drumshanbo
Ballinamore
Ballyconnell
Belturbet
Carrick-on-Shannon

29 hr(s) of cruising

150km 34 locks 7 nights

Carrick-on-Shannon RETURN via Belturbet

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Overview

You head out on your boat vacation in Ireland through lakes, the Shannon-Erne Waterway and the River Shannon. You feel relaxed as the scenery slowly passes by, and you see friendly people wave at you from the towpath. Along the way, you enjoy the waterfront bistro in Leitrim, fishing at Drumshanbo and playing the 18-hole championship golf course at Ballyconnell.

Top highlights:

  • Carrick-on-Shannon's artistic history
  • The three churches of Drumshanbo
  • Ballyconnell's variety of food
  • The shrine to the Abbey of Tarmonbarry
  • Carrigglas Manor in County Longford

Example itinerary:

The following is only an example, you can explore this area in whichever order you want, so long as your boat is back at the end base at the end of your trip:

  • Carrick-on-Shannon: Carrick-On-Shannon is the largest town in County Leitrim. The ruins of the old Carrick Castle can be glimpsed on the Carrick Bridge. Stop in this pretty town and visit the great Saint-Mary's Church. Learn its history and discover its culture in the art centre.
  • Leitrim: A quiet and pretty little village straddling the canal. A good place to have a drink on the terrace, watching the river.
  • Drumshanbo: Drumshanbo, located along the Shannon river is a typical Irish village, with a once-thriving iron-mining industry. The city has a great religious past, and has three churches that you can visit. Around the lake, there are also beautiful walking paths.
  • Ballinamore: Ballinamore is a green and peaceful town with many activities on offer. Walk the hiking paths around the city, hire a bike or visit the equestrian center.
  • Ballyconnell: Welcome to Ballyconnell, a vibrant and picturesque town with a number of good restaurants and typical pubs downtown. The Tomregan Church, aside the town, is a good place for a peaceful walk in pretty surroundings.
  • Belturbet: Welcome to Belturbet, a peaceful and welcoming town along the canal. Enter the city and have a walk downtown, to discover the beautiful Staghal Church. If you stay the night, you can dine in one of the many fine restaurants.

29 hr(s) of cruising

150km 34 locks 7 nights
Historic bridge across the river in Athlone

Carrick-on-Shannon RETURN via Athlone

Carrick-on-Shannon
Roosky
Tarmonbarry
Lanesborough
Athlone
Carrick-on-Shannon

22 hr(s) of cruising

200km 6 locks 7 nights

Carrick-on-Shannon RETURN via Athlone

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Overview

You’ve revelled in the friendly pubs and tried the Guinness and Jameson whisky, Calcannon (potato and cabbage) and Boxty (fried potato cakes). Now you’re up for golf — even more natural on barge vacations in Ireland than neighbourhood leprechauns and four-leaf clovers! At Glasson and Hodson Bay, you hit the greens with gusto and the luck of the Irish!

Top highlights:

  • Carrick-on-Shannon's artistic history
  • The shrine to the Abbey of Tarmonbarry
  • Carrigglas Manor in County Longford
  • The castle of Athlone

Example itinerary:

The following is only an example, you can explore this area in whichever order you want, so long as your boat is back at the end base at the end of your trip:

  • Carrick-on-Shannon: Carrick-On-Shannon is the largest town in County Leitrim. The ruins of the old Carrick Castle can be glimpsed on the Carrick Bridge. Stop in this pretty town and visit the great Saint Mary's Church. Learn its history and discover its culture in The Dock Arts Centre
  • Roosky: This picturesque village is an important boating harbour on the River Shannon with many attractive mooring places. There are some lovely walks here, and really good spots for anglers.
  • Tarmonbarry: Tarmonbarry is a welcoming town with many vestiges of the past. Discover the hidden Abbey in the church grounds, built in the twelfth century or enjoy the sight of the great Carriglas Manor. If you stay for the night, enjoy the plentiful local pubs and restaurants.
  • Lanesborough: In the small town of Lanesborough stands one of the oldest centres of Christianity in Longford, Saint John's church, a beautiful building built on an older church dating from the fifth century.
  • Athlone: Athlone, the capital of the Midlands, is a welcoming town. Come and discover its culture, especially Athlone Castle, built to defend the island against French attacks and then partially destroyed by a lightning strike in 1967. Take time to see the visitor centre and the beautiful landscapes over the river Shannon.

22 hr(s) of cruising

200km 6 locks 7 nights
Ancient monastery ruins in Clonmacnoise

Carrick-on-Shannon to Portumna

Carrick-on-Shannon
Roosky
Tarmonbarry
Lanesborough
Athlone
Clonmacnoise
Banagher
Portumna

19 hr(s) of cruising

160km 5 locks 7 nights

Carrick-on-Shannon to Portumna

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Overview

A Portumna to Carrick-on Shannon cruise is great if you want to cover lots of the Shannon! Enjoy the Georgian town of Portumna and the pristine waters of Lough Ree. Then indulge yourself with some fishing, a round of golf and some shepherd’s pie in a pub!

Top highlights:

  • The old monastery and castle ruins of Clonmacnoise
  • The still forest and castle of Portumna
  • The castle of Athlone

Example itinerary:

The following is only an example, you can explore this area in whichever order you want, so long as your boat is back at the end base at the end of your trip:

  • Carrick-on-Shannon: Carrick-On-Shannon is the largest town in County Leitrim. The ruins of the old Carrick Castle can be glimpsed on the Carrick Bridge. Stop in this pretty town and visit the great Saint Mary's Church. Learn its history and discover its culture in The Dock Arts Centre.
  • Roosky: This picturesque village is an important boating harbour on the River Shannon with many attractive mooring places. There are some lovely walks here, and really good spots for anglers.
  • Tarmonbarry: Tarmonbarry is a welcoming town with many vestiges of the past. Discover the hidden Abbey in the church grounds, built in the twelfth century or enjoy the sight of the great Carriglas Manor. If you stay for the night, enjoy the plentiful local pubs and restaurants.
  • Lanesborough: In the small town of Lanesborough stands one of the oldest centres of Christianity in Longford, Saint John's Church, a beautiful building built on an older church dating from the fifth century.
  • Athlone: Athlone, the capital of the Midlands, is a welcoming town. Come and discover its culture, especially Athlone Castle, built to defend the island against French attacks and then partially destroyed by a lightning strike in 1967. Take time to see the visitor centre and the beautiful landscapes over the river Shannon.
  • Clonmacnoise: Clonmacnoise is a wonderful vestige of the past, lost in nature. Discover a great monastery, which was once the most famous of the island, before being destroyed by Athlone. Come here and discover many beautiful monuments, like the old monastery, the ruins of the cathedral and the pretty castle ruins too. The landscapes here are just marvelous.
  • Banagher: Banagher is steeped in history. Come here and discover this peaceful and quiet town hiding many treasures of the past, like the old Castle Clonony. Head downtown and visit the pretty Saint Paul's Church.
  • Portumna: Situated at the head of Lough Derg, Portumna is one of Galway's most attractive towns and is famous for Portumna Castle which both King James I and Queen Elizabeth I of England visited.

19 hr(s) of cruising

160km 5 locks 7 nights
Taking in the views across Lough Derg

Portumna RETURN via Killaloe & Mountshannon

Portumna
Terryglass
Dromineer
Garrykennedy
Mountshannon
Scarriff
Killaloe
Portumna

17 hr(s) of cruising

128km 0 locks 7 nights

Portumna RETURN via Killaloe & Mountshannon

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Overview

You’ve locked wits with wily pike, brown trout and course fish on the beautiful Loug Derg. You've enjoyed all kinds of watersports in Dromineer, and gone cycling to villages, castles and cathedrals. An Irish cruise delivered exactly what you were looking for — a mix of varied vacation pleasures to long remember. Ancient Celtic ruins definitely caught your imagination!

Top highlights:

  • The still forest and castle of Portumna
  • Views from the old stone bridge of Killaloe

Example itinerary:

The following is only an example, you can explore this area in whichever order you want, so long as your boat is back at the end base at the end of your trip:

  • Portumna: Situated at the head of Lough Derg, Portumna is one of Galway's most attractive towns and is famous for Portumna Castle which both King James I and Queen Elizabeth I of England visited.
  • Terryglass: A pretty and welcoming village where you will enjoy having a rest. Have a break in one of the good restaurants. Terryglass is also the site of a sixth century monastic settlement, of which only a small part remains; but the area is very historic.
  • Dromineer: Near Dromineer, you will appreciate the sight of the thirteenth century ruined castle. Have a walk along the shore to observe the pretty landscapes on the river Shannon.
  • Garrykennedy: Welcome to Garykennedy, a quiet village that was once the residence of the powerful Kennedy family. Observe the old Kennedy Castle, and have a good time in the pubs downtown. There is also an access to the biggest lake of Ireland, the Lough Derg.
  • Mountshannon: Mountshannon is a beautiful and scenic village. It was designed as a model village and completed in 1742. It's tree lined streets and the uniformity of its architecture give it a grace and dignity seldom seen in villages of comparable size.
  • Scarriff: Scarriff is a major stopping point for boats upon the Shannon River. Although it is narrow and windy, the Scarriff River, which winds its way through the town before joining Lough Derg, is easily navigable and is a quaint and enjoyable experience.
  • Killaloe: Killaloe and Ballina are two wonderful green villages separated by the river. Take time to have a walk on the old stone bridge and appreciate the amazing river views. The old roman catholic church is also worth a visit.

17 hr(s) of cruising

128km 0 locks 7 nights
Portumna

Portumna RETURN via Athlone & Terryglass

Portumna
Banagher
Clonmacnoise
Athlone
Terryglass
Portumna

17 hr(s) of cruising

120km 4 locks 3 nights

Portumna RETURN via Athlone & Terryglass

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Overview

You'll discover lush green landscapes, historic towns and plenty of Irish charm as you wind through the heart of the Shannon on this short return cruise. 

Top highlights:

  • The still forest and castle of Portumna
  • The old monastery and castle ruins of Clonmacnoise
  • The castle of Athlone

Example itinerary:

The following is only an example, you can explore this area in whichever order you want, so long as your boat is back at the end base at the end of your trip:

  • Portumna: Situated at the head of Lough Derg, Portumna is one of Galway's most attractive towns and is famous for Portumna Castle which both King James I and Queen Elizabeth I of England visited.
  • Banagher: Banagher is steeped in history. Come here and discover this peaceful and quiet town hiding many treasures of the past, like the old Castle Clonony. Head downtown and visit the pretty Saint Paul's Church.
  • Clonmacnoise: Clonmacnoise is a wonderful vestige of the past, lost in nature. Discover a great monastery, which was once the most famous of the island, before being destroyed by Athlone. Come here and discover many beautiful monuments, like the old monastery, the ruins of the cathedral and the pretty castle ruins too. The landscapes are here just marvelous.
  • Athlone: Athlone, the capital of the Midlands, is a welcoming town. Come and discover its culture, especially Athlone Castle, built to defend the island against French attacks and then partially destroyed by a lightning strike in 1967. Take time to see the visitor centre and the beautiful landscapes over the river Shannon.
  • Terryglass: A pretty and welcoming village where you will enjoy having a rest. Have a break in one of the good restaurants. Terryglass is also the site of a sixth century monastic settlement, of which only a small part remains; but the area is very historic.

17 hr(s) of cruising

120km 4 locks 3 nights
Portumna castle and gardens

Portumna RETURN via Killaloe

Portumna
Terryglass
Killaloe
Portumna

14 hr(s) of cruising

106km 0 locks 3 nights

Portumna RETURN via Killaloe

Scroll down using the grey bar to the right

Overview

You are totally relaxed, only hours from Portumna, where you savoured shepherd’s pie in a friendly pub and checked out the castle! Now you’re happily cruising on your boat rental in Ireland southbound on the big Lough Derg, famous for its brown trout and pike. You can just taste your fresh fish dinner as you envision kicking back on the sundeck!

Top highlights:

  • The still forest and castle of Portumna
  • Views from the old stone bridge of Killaloe

Example itinerary:

The following is only an example, you can explore this area in whichever order you want, so long as your boat is back at the end base at the end of your vacation:

  • Portumna: Situated at the head of Lough Derg, Portumna is one of Galway's most attractive towns and is famous for Portumna Castle which both King James I and Queen Elizabeth I of England visited.
  • Terryglass: A pretty and welcoming village where you will enjoy having a rest. Have a break in one of the good restaurants. Terryglass is also the site of a sixth century monastic settlement, of which only a small part remains; but the area is very historic.
  • Killaloe: Killaloe and Ballina are two wonderful green villages separated by the river. Take time to have a walk on the old stone bridge and appreciate the amazing river views. The old roman catholic church is also worth a visit.

14 hr(s) of cruising

106km 0 locks 3 nights
Colourful houses in Carrick-on-Shannon

Carrick-on-Shannon RETURN via Lanesborough

Carrick-on-Shannon
Roosky
Tarmonbarry
Lanesborough
Carrick-on-Shannon

14 hr(s) of cruising

104km 6 locks 3 nights

Carrick-on-Shannon RETURN via Lanesborough

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Overview

The River Shannon marks a swath of blue through emerald green hills dotted with Celtic ruins and postcard-perfect villages, entrancing you with every mile you make south towards Lanesborough at the head of Lough Ree. A boat rental in Ireland immerses you in the Irish way of life, slow and easy as you cycle the towpaths or play a round of golf.

Top highlights:

  • Fishing in Roosky
  • The shrine to the Abbey of Tarmonbarry
  • Carrigglas Manor in County Longford

Example itinerary:

The following is only an example, you can explore this area in whichever order you want, so long as your boat is back at the end base at the end of your vacation:

  • Carrick-on-Shannon: Carrick-On-Shannon is the largest town in County Leitrim. The ruins of the old Carrick Castle can be glimpsed on the Carrick Bridge. Stop in this pretty town and visit the great Saint Mary's Church. Learn its history and discover its culture in The Dock Arts Centre.
  • Roosky: This picturesque village is an important boating harbour on the River Shannon with many attractive mooring places. There are some lovely walks here, and really good spots for anglers.
  • Tarmonbarry: Tarmonbarry is a welcoming town with many vestiges of the past. Discover the hidden Abbey in the church grounds, built in the twelfth century or enjoy the sight of the great Carriglas Manor. If you stay for the night, enjoy the plentiful local pubs and restaurants.
  • Lanesborough: In the small town of Lanesborough stands one of the oldest centres of Christianity in Longford, Saint John's church, a beautiful building built on an older church dating from the fifth century.

14 hr(s) of cruising

104km 6 locks 3 nights

Our Feefo reviews

Feefo is an independent and impartial review service that requests reviews directly from those who have been on a Le Boat vacation. Below you can read what our past customers think about their Le Boat experience, and trust that what you read is unfiltered, unedited and uncensored.

Added on 6 October 2023

A customer said

Yes, service was excellent So enjoyed this trip, will definitely do again
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Good day, Thank you for taking the time to write a five-star review of your boating holiday on the river Shannon. We are delighted to hear that you had a great time on your Emerald Star experience and that our staff were of great help to you. We look forward to welcoming you onboard again. Kind regards Refilwe from Emerald Star
Carrick-on-Shannon - Carrick-on-Shannon
Magnifique
Added on 27 September 2023

Remigijus Cizauskas said

Everyting is super good! Everythig is super good!!!
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Good day, Thank you for taking the time to write a five-star review of your boating holiday. We are delighted to hear that you had a good time on your Emerald Star experience with your friends and family. We look forward to welcoming you onboard again. Kind regards Refilwe from Emerald Star
Carrick-on-Shannon - Carrick-on-Shannon
Horizon 3
Added on 25 September 2023

A customer said

This was an excellent experience the holiday was and stress free We had a great holiday. The support from emerald star was excellent
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Good day, Thank you for taking the tie to write a five-star review of your boating holiday. We are delighted to hear that you had a great time on your Emerald Star experience, and that the staff were very helpful and friendly in their service to you. We look forward to welcoming you onboard again. Kind regards Refilwe from Emerald Star
Carrick-on-Shannon - Carrick-on-Shannon
Shannon Star
Added on 16 September 2023

Alan Buckel said

We had a really good holiday. As you have asked, there were a few niggles! Some of the sink plug didn't fit/work. Water pipe didn't connect at Hodson Bay. Charts were out of date. Water hose pipe kept kinking, old. Perhaps a new flexible type would be better and easier to stow. Shore based ablution on the Shannon were not so hot. Life belt was not attached to the boat, it is now. Some steps/box need to board the boat at some moorings; jetty to boat height a problem. Need some way of securing the deck furniture in 'rough' weather. Running cost of nearly £15.00 per hour seemed a bit steep! On the plus side the shower head was good. Hot water system good. Plenty of space in the boat. Bow thrust very good. Beds comfortable. In al a good holiday though!
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Good day, Thank you for taking the time to write a review of your boating holiday. We are very delighted to hear that you had a wonderful time on your Le Boat experience and that the staff were able to be of assistance during your booking process. We look forward to welcoming you onboard again. Kind regards Refilwe from Le Boat
Carrick-on-Shannon - Carrick-on-Shannon
Clipper
Added on 19 August 2023

A customer said

All good from start to finish we had no complaints. Boat was clean ,tidy & comfortable.
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Good day, Thank you for taking the time to write a five-star review of your boating holiday. We are delighted to hear that you had a fantastic time during your Le Boat experience, and that everything was to your satisfaction. We look forward to welcoming you onboard again. Kind regards Refilwe from Le Boat.
Carrick-on-Shannon - Carrick-on-Shannon
Lake Star
Added on 16 August 2023

A customer said

Excellent staff at carrick base and boat in perfect condition Boat was in excellent condition
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Good day, Thank you for taking the time to write a five-star review of your boating holiday on the river Shannon. We are delighted to hear that you had a fantastic time during your Le Boat experience, and that everything was to your satisfaction. We look forward to welcoming you onboard again. Kind regards Refilwe from Emerald Star
Carrick-on-Shannon - Carrick-on-Shannon
Shannon Star
Added on 9 August 2023

A customer said

Overall great holiday, Friendly and informative instruction. Your review process needs clarity. We had to wash most of the crockery ourselves on arrival, all plates were dirty. No side plates provided. No gas lighter, unable to light the cooker with matches. No water in the shower block at Carrick on Shannon.
READ MORE
Good day, Thank you for taking the time to write a five-star review. We are delighted in hearing that you had a fantastic time on your boating holiday and that our staff were able to be of assistance during the booking process. We look forward to welcoming you onboard again. Kind regards Refilwe from Le Boat
Carrick-on-Shannon - Carrick-on-Shannon
Lake Star
Added on 17 July 2023

Andy Keating said

Friendly staff and lovely clean boat and helpful Beautiful boat and beautiful landscape
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Hi Andy, Thank you for taking the time to write a five-star review of your boating holiday. We are so delighted to hear that you had a fantastic time and received some excellent help from our staff. We look forward to welcoming you onboard again. Kind regards Refilwe from Emerald Star
Carrick-on-Shannon - Carrick-on-Shannon
Consul
Added on 21 June 2023

Garry Morrow said

We had a great time Our boat was large enough to be cumphy , but snall enough to manage.
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Hi Gary, Thank you so much for your five-star review. We are delighted to hear that you had a fantastic time on the River Shannon, and that you received great service from the Portumna staff. We look forward to welcoming you onboard again! Kind regards Refilwe from Le Boat
Portumna - Portumna
Town Star
Added on 16 June 2023

James Kershaw said

STAFF IN CARRIC ON SHANNON BASE WERE SO SO FRIENDLY AND WENT OUT OF THERE WAY TO HELP ME AND MY FAMILY TO HAVE A WONDERFUL HOLIDAY I GO EVERY YEAR AND WILL DO
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Hi James, Thank you for taking the time to write a five-star review of your boating holiday. We are delighted to hear that you had a fantastic time on your Le Boat experience and that our Le Boat staff gave you great service. We look forward to welcoming you onboard again soon. Kind regards Refilwe from Le Boat.
Carrick-on-Shannon - Carrick-on-Shannon
Shannon Star