Lower Shannon & Lough Derg
Take a cruise on the Lower Shannon
The Lower Shannon lazes through undulating lush countryside that is steeped in history as well as real Irish character.
Life slows down along this stretch of the Shannon and boats pass less frequently – the noise of nature takes over once more.
This is the place to go to “get away from it all”, to experience the peacefulness, the beautiful dramatic scenery and really good cruising waters.
Exploring the Lower Shannon
The Lower Shannon covers the section from Lough Ree in the north, through Athlone, one of the busiest towns on the river to the great expanse of Lough Derg in the south with it’s many picturesque towns and villages
Banagher marina in County Offaly is ideally placed to cruise the Shannon south of Athlone and into Lough Derg.
BOOK YOUR BOATING HOLIDAY NOW!
Boating Holidays on the Lower Shannon
Discover the best places to go on the Lower Shannon ! Sail away on your licence-free cruiser and discover the magnificent Shannon River and all its wonders !
Discover the Shannon River
Discover the Shannon River
At the southern end of Lough Ree is Hodson Bay, home to Athlone Golf Club and Bay Sports, the largest inflatable water park in Ireland. Further south is Athlone, the largest town on the River and known as the centre of Ireland. Athlone has always been considered an important crossing point on the Shannon and a visit to the Castle Museum is very worthwhile.
The river then slowly snakes past Clonmacnoise, the ancient Christian capital of Ireland and worthy of a long visit to soak up the atmosphere and visit the many churches, round towers and temples.
The River Suck then joins the Shannon from the west at Shannonbridge and a leisurely cruise up the narrow river will take you to the modern town of Ballinasloe.
Continuing further south will take you to the town of Banagher, Carrickcraft’s marina base on the Lower Shannon. Historically, this was also an important crossing point on the Shannon and you can still see the remains of the Napoleanic fortifications on the River.
Finally, you will cruise into the great expanse of Lough Derg, the largest lake on the waterway system. Lough Derg is famous for the idyllic little towns and villages that fringe its shores with small harbours and plenty of moorings. Good pubs and restaurants abound in this area, where you’ll often hear the sound of the fiddle and you may be asked to join in the dancing!
The southern limit of navigation is at Killaloe, south of Lough Derg, but the River Shannon narrows at this point and continues to flow southwards until it reaches the mighty Atlantic Ocean near Limerick.
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
