Discover the Shannon
The Ultimate Gateway to River Cruising 🛥️☘️
Based in the heart of Ireland’s waterways, Discover the Shannon acts as the premier one-stop booking hub for exploring the fabled River Shannon, the Shannon-Erne Waterway, and Lough Erne. Rather than operating a single fleet, they represent the largest collection of cruiser hire companies in Ireland, allowing visitors to compare and book everything from intimate 2-berth cruisers to luxury 10-berth “floating hotels” through a single platform.
Their expertise caters specifically to first-timers—no boat licence or previous experience is required, as full tuition is provided at the start of every trip. Whether you are seeking a peaceful fishing holiday in the Hidden Heartlands or a lively family adventure through lakeside villages, this service provides the logistical backbone for a seamless journey through Ireland’s longest river.
Cruising Regions & Popular Itineraries
The Shannon is divided into distinct regions, each offering a unique blend of ancient history, modern marinas, and pristine nature.
| Region | Starting Point | Key Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Upper Shannon | Carrick-on-Shannon | Lough Key Forest Park, Lough Allen, and the buzzing nightlife of Carrick. |
| Mid Shannon | Banagher / Athlone | Clonmacnoise monastic site, Lough Ree, and Sean’s Bar (Europe’s oldest pub). |
| Lough Derg | Portumna / Killaloe | Dramatic scenery, mountain backdrops, and watersports in Mountshannon. |
| Shannon-Erne | Belturbet / Ballinamore | A 63km canal link with 16 automated locks, connecting two major river systems. |
Essential Booking Information
Cruising Season: Mid-March to the end of October (Annual).
Licensing: No captain’s licence required for self-drive cruisers.
Minimum Hire: Typically 3 nights (Weekend/Mid-week) or 7 nights (Full week).
Check-in: Boats are usually collected from 4:00 pm and returned by 9:00 am on the final day.
Note: Fuel (diesel) and a refundable damage deposit are mandatory extra costs paid at the marina upon arrival.
Tip: If you are a beginner, look for a “Return Itinerary” rather than a “One-Way Hire.” One-way trips require stricter timing to meet drop-off deadlines, whereas return trips allow you to linger longer at your favorite spots like the Iron Age Corlea Trackway or the lakeside restaurants of Glasson.
Contact & Support
Phone: +353 (0)1 691 4131
Email: via contact form
Head Office: Dublin, Ireland (acting as central booking agent for all Shannon marinas).
Travel Tip: Most hire companies offer transfers from Dublin or Shannon Airport directly to the marinas. If driving, free parking is standard at almost all embarkation points.
FAQs about Discover the Shannon
Is it difficult to drive the boat?
Not at all! The cruisers are designed for ease of use. On your first day, a technician will take you for a trial run, showing you how to steer, moor, and operate the locks until you feel completely confident.
Can we take our dog on the boat?
Many of the cruiser companies represented by Discover the Shannon are pet-friendly. A small cleaning supplement (usually around €80–€100) is typically charged, but your furry friend is welcome to enjoy the river with you.
How much does fuel cost for a week?
Fuel is calculated based on engine hours used. For a standard 7-night cruise, you should budget between €250 and €400 depending on the size of the boat and how many hours you choose to navigate each day.
About the River Cruise Services
Discovertheshannon.com promotes boating and tourism along the River Shannon in Ireland. It is the one stop location for planning your holiday, booking your boat and finding all the information your need when visiting the region. The River Shannon is one of Ireland most unique and enjoyable holiday experiences and we believe everyone should take the opportunity to visit this magical landscape at least once. The site also acts as an app to provide all with a mobile guide to the region
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