A suggested 7 day itinerary for a return to base cruise from Carrick on Shannon
*Whilst for this particular cruise we suggest 7 days, there will be other golfing cruises available for for shorter periods such as 3,4 or 5 days!
Take centuries-old monastic settlements and places of historical significance add in lush landscapes and dramatic scenery, mix with delightful small villages and harbours, and you have just some of the ingredients that have made cruising the River Shannon such a popular holiday option in Ireland.
Old fashioned narrow streets, a diversity of shops and a lively nightlife that includes traditional Irish music are some of the distinguishing characteristics of Carrick-on-Shannon, a major boating and fishing centre on the Shannon.
Arrive at our base at Carrick-on-Shannon early afternoon and spend some time getting to know your boat, how to handle it and basic navigation techniques. Spend the night in Carrick-on-Shannon where you will find some fantastic restaurants, great pubs & enjoy a local sing song at Cryan’s Riverside Inn. Enjoy a round of golf at Carrick Golf Club, now an 18 hole stunning course situated on the banks of Drumharlow lake and Boyle River. It’s just a short taxi ride from the Emerald Star base in Carrick.
Cruise to Dromod, a nice small quaint village with a nice restaurant/pub to stop off for lunch or a quick drink along the way. Once passing through the lift bridge & lock at Roosky, you will be cruising tranquil stretches of water, with lots of wildlife to be seen. Just beside the bridge over the Shannon in Tarmonbarry, a visit to Keenan’s is a must, this well-run bar and restaurant is a favourite restaurant for all boating enthusiasts, relax and enjoy a fun night with nice food and music.
25km / 5 hours cruising / 3 locks / 2 lift bridges
Heading South, enjoy cruising the wider part of the river Shannon beyond Lanesborough into pretty Lough Ree. Play golf at Glasson Golf Club or Hodson bay, two renowned 18 hole courses. Glasson is easily accessed just moor up at the 17th hole. Lunch is a must at the Wineport Lodge, situated on the edge of Lough Ree it offers delicious food in an idyllic atmosphere. Spend time in Athlone, the commercial centre of the Midlands & the culinary capital of the inland waterways.
20km / 4 hours cruising
After a short cruise, moor and visit Clonmacnoise an ancient monastic site situated on the east side of the Shannon, dating back almost 1500 years. Enjoy a tour through the heritage centre and relax in the newly designed coffee bar where you also have a chance to buy some Irish souvenirs. Return to Shannonbridge, cast out your rod and try some fi shing. The River Shannon boasts bountiful stocks of bream, rudd, bream hybrids, tench, perch, pike, trout, eel and salmon. In the evening enjoy dinner at the Old Fort restaurant; this is a unique and historical building looking over the River Shannon. Killeen’s pub offers Irish music most nights.
10km / 2 hrs cruising / 1 lock
Enjoy a nice morning stroll and visit Shannonbridge pottery situated just 5km outside the picturesque village. Shannonbridge Pottery are market leaders in Ireland for all pottery, porcelain and earthenware giftware. Begin your journey back towards Carrick, stop off at Clondara/Richmond harbour and enjoy a pint of Guinness at the Richmond Inn.
30km / 6 hrs cruising / 2 locks
Cruise through Tarmonbarry to Roosky, pass through the lock and enjoy a bicycle trip around the very picturesque village, have lunch in the Shannon Key West Hotel.
25km / 2 hrs cruising / 2 locks / 2 lift bridges
On your last day you have two choices - spend the night in Jamestown or return to the base for an evening in the town of Carrick. Jamestown is just one hour cruising from the base which is ideal for returning your boat the following morning.
10km / 3 hrs cruising