Shannon and Erne
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!
Shannon and Erne map
= Le Boat Base = Canal = Navigable river = No navigation beyond this point
The perfect boating region for...
Golf
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
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
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
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
We'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.
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:
Monday to Saturday: 10:00 - 17:30
Sundays: 10:00 - 17:00
Public holidays: Locks are closed on some public holidays. Our Carrick-on-Shannon and Portumna base are closed for departures on Bank Holidays.
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
= Le Boat / Emerald Star base = Point of interest
Great to see…
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.
46 hr(s) of cruising
280km 36 locks 11 nightsThe Ireland Golf and Nature Lovers Long Break
Carrick-on-Shannon RETURN via Belleek
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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 barge 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 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 art center.
- 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: 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.
46 hr(s) of cruising
280km 36 locks 11 nights36 hr(s) of cruising
220km 34 locks 10 nightsThe Lakelands and Fisherman's Long Break
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 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 art center.
- 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 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.
36 hr(s) of cruising
220km 34 locks 10 nights29 hr(s) of cruising
150km 34 locks 7 nightsThe Northern Shannon Cruise
Carrick-on-Shannon RETURN via Belturbet
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Overview
You head out on your barge 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 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 art center.
- 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 nights22 hr(s) of cruising
200km 6 locks 7 nightsThe Southern Shannon Cruise
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 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 Center.
- 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 centers of Christianity in Longford, Saint John's church, a beautiful building built on an older church dating from the fifith 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 center and the beautiful landscapes over the river Shannon.
22 hr(s) of cruising
200km 6 locks 7 nights19 hr(s) of cruising
160km 5 locks 7 nightsThe Celtic Cruise
Carrick-on-Shannon to Portumna ONEWAY
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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 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 Center.
- 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 nights17 hr(s) of cruising
128km 0 locks 7 nightsThe Lough Derg Cruise
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 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.
- 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 nights17 hr(s) of cruising
120km 4 locks 3 nightsThe South Shannon Short Break
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 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.
- 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 center 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 nights14 hr(s) of cruising
106km 0 locks 3 nightsThe Lough Derg Short Break
Portumna RETURN via Killaloe
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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 nights14 hr(s) of cruising
104km 6 locks 3 nightsThe North Shannon Short Break
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 The Dock Arts Center.
- 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 centers 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