Hiring a boat to cruise around Ireland is a great way to see the country at a relaxed pace. With the recent renovation of the Shannon Erne Waterway, there is access to the longest inland waterway in Europe. There are hundreds of mooring points along the rivers Shannon and Erne so there’s plenty opportunity for stops. You can fish from your boat with no licence required on the Shannon. There’s also the option to play golf as 20 golf courses are within easy reach of the waterways.

River Shannon by IrishFireside

Carrick Craft offer a choice of well equipped, comfortable boats from 2 – 8 berth all with onboard cooking facilities, shower and toilet. The have three pick up locations Carrick-on-Shannon, Banagher and Tully Bay. It’s possible to do one way trips, It’s fairly easy to pick up how to operate your boat and you’ll receive instruction and an onboard demonstration before taking to the helm.

I had a quick look at prices and found a 2+2 berth boat for 756 euros for a one week hire from Saturday 23 August with a start and finish at Banagher. There is a separate charge for fuel which is estimated at 100 – 150 euros for a one week hire. There are other offers such as 10 day hire for the price of 7 in April and October, child discounts and 2nd week discounts.