Erne River & Lough Erne Boat Hire
Take a cruise on Lough Erne
The jewel in the crown of Co. Fermanagh. In the North west of the island of Ireland lies an interconnecting network of loughs, rivers and backwaters that would take a lifetime to explore.
With over 150 islands, many with a history dating back thousands of years, this is one of the best cruising areas in Europe.
The night sky is jet black and studded with a panorama of brilliant stars. The long summer days are so peaceful – hardly another boat will interrupt your calm.
Welcome to the wonderful cruising area of Lough Erne
Come and explore the Irish waterways and discover its secrets in a brand new way. These locations are remarkable regions for boating holidays in Ireland, now could be the time!
Bellanaleck
BOOK YOUR BOATING HOLIDAY NOW!
Boating Holidays on Lough Erne
Discover the best places to go on Lough Erne ! Sail away on your licence-free cruiser and discover the magnificent Erne River and all its wonders !
Upper and Lower Lough Erne
Upper and Lower Lough Erne
The River Erne rises in Slieve Glah in Co. Cavan flows northwards through an array of loughs, both small and large, past numerous forest parks, towns and villages, sheltered bays and secluded islands.
The River starts in the Republic of Ireland and a small part of it forms the border with Northern Ireland. The first large town is Belturbet in Co. Cavan, but the vast majority of the Erne navigation is in Northern Ireland. Shortly after crossing the border, it is joined by the Woodford River to the west. Following this small river leads to the Shannon Erne waterway, which will take you on the mighty River Shannon, which flows south through the heartlands of Ireland.
Because the River Erne flows northwards, the first lough you encounter is Upper Lough Erne (although on a map it looks like it should be the Lower Lough!). This part of the navigation is characterised by a fascinating network of islands and interconnecting rivers.
One of the larger islands on Upper Lough Erne is Inishmore and you can cruise around either side of the island, then a long stretch of more narrow water brings you to Bellanaleck, Carrickcraft’s marina on Lough Erne, the ideal location to start your cruise as it gives easy access to all of Upper and Lower Lough Erne and is just a short cruise from the county town of Enniskillen.
Continuing northwards into Lower Lough Erne, you will pass a number of small islands and peninsulas that are worth a visit. You will find a secluded picnic spot, a beautiful nature walk and the peace and tranquility that comes with a cruise on Lough Erne.
Further north, we leave the small islands and narrow channels behind as the vast expanse of Lower Lough Erne opens up before us. You have the option of continuing to head in a northerly direction towards the beautiful tree lined Kesh River and the town of Kesh or you could head in a westerly direction to the border town of Belleek, famous as the home of Belleek Pottery, the perfect place to find a souvenir of your holiday. This is the limit of navigation, but the River Erne continues to flow, crossing the border once again into the Republic of Ireland and into the Great Atlantic Ocean.
Shannon-Erne Waterway
Shannon-Erne Waterway
The reopening of the old Ballinamore-Ballyconnell Canal has revitalised a facility and a hinterland rich in natural beauty. Linking the renowned Shannon and the Erne, the waterway weaves together the streams, rivers and lakes which are picturesquely scattered between Leitrim Village on the Shannon and Lough Erne.
Passing under 34 stone bridges it is checked by 16 locks on its scenic course through wild unspoiled countryside. Each lock takes about 15 minutes to negotiate and the cruising time for the 62.5 kilometers of navigation is approximately 13 hours.
We have many permanent discounts available throughout the year and these are already included in the prices quoted. We also have Last Minute Discounts and Flash Sales available throughout the year. Check out our latest offers below
2025 Early Booking Discount
15% Early Booking Discount
Discount on all 2025 Bookings
15% Discount
Valid until 30th November 2024
Midweek Special
and get 4 nights for the price of 3
Available All Season
Extra Night Free
Available on selected boats
10 nights for the price of 7
Available in April, May, Sept and Oct
10 for 7
Clare, Kilkenny, Wave Princess, Carlow
2025 Early Booking Discount
15% Early Booking Discount
Discount on all 2025 Bookings
15% Discount
Valid until 30th November 2024
Midweek Special
and get 4 nights for the price of 3
Available All Season
Extra Night Free
Available on selected boats
10 nights for the price of 7
Available in April, May, Sept and Oct
10 for 7
Clare, Kilkenny, Wave Princess, Carlow
When you hire a boat from Carrickcraft, you will benefit from the advice of experts who are passionate about boating and who will do their utmost to ensure you have a great holiday.
NO LICENCEREQUIRED
ACROSS
3 MARINAS
YEARS
EXPERIENCE
