Emerald Star Shannon Cruises
Adventure on Ireland’s Waterways 🛥️☘️
As Ireland’s leading boat rental operator, Emerald Star (part of the global Le Boat family) offers an unparalleled way to explore the heart of the country. With over 50 years of experience on the River Shannon and the Erne System, they provide a fleet of self-drive cruisers that allow you to become the captain of your own floating holiday.
No license or previous experience is required, making it an accessible and thrilling escape for families, groups of friends, and couples alike. From the bustling lakeside towns of Carrick-on-Shannon and Athlone to the tranquil, ancient ruins of Clonmacnoise, Emerald Star provides the keys to a world of hidden gems, riverside gastropubs, and breathtaking natural beauty that can only be truly experienced from the water.
The Fleet & Onboard Experience
Emerald Star offers a diverse range of boats, from cozy 2-berth cruisers for romantic getaways to premier 10-berth vessels for large family reunions.
| Boat Class | Capacity | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Budget / Comfort | 2 – 8 People | Classic, easy-to-handle boats with fully equipped kitchens and linens. |
| Comfort Plus | 4 – 10 People | Spacious interiors, electric toilets, and modern entertainment systems. |
| Premier (Horizon) | 2 – 10 People | State-of-the-art sundecks, BBQ grills, and bow thrusters for easy docking. |
| Pet-Friendly | Various | The entire fleet is dog-friendly, so your four-legged friend can join the crew. |
Cruise Planning & Locations
Main Bases: Carrick-on-Shannon (Co. Leitrim) and Portumna (Co. Galway).
Season: Cruises typically run from mid-March to the end of October.
Training: A full safety briefing and “hands-on” driving demonstration is provided at check-in.
Note: One-way trips between bases are available, allowing you to cover more of the Shannon without retracing your steps.
FAQs about Emerald Star Cruises
Do I really not need a license?
Correct! You do not need a license to drive any of the Emerald Star boats. The staff will provide comprehensive training on how to steer, dock, and navigate the locks before you leave the marina.
What happens if I get stuck or have a problem?
Emerald Star provides a 7-day technical support service. If you encounter any issues with the boat, their technicians are on standby to meet you along the river and get you back on your way.
Are there extra costs besides the boat hire?
You will need to pay for fuel (calculated by engine hours), lock fees (minimal), and any optional extras like bicycle hire or groceries. It is also standard to leave a security deposit at the start of your trip.
About the Boat Hire Service
On an Emerald Star cruise you can take in centuries-old monastic settlements and places of historical significance, lush landscapes and dramatic scenery, delightful small villages and harbours, all of which guarantee you a wonderful holiday option in Ireland. Cruise from Carrick-on-Shannon, one of the major boating centres on the River Shannon, it is a thriving town with much to offer on the social scene. At Portumna the delights of Lough Derg and further await. One of Ireland’s finest lakes , it’s renowned as a place of pilgrimage and surrounded by diverse culture. Portumna also gives easy access to Lough Ree and the entire Shannon waterway.
Tip: If you’re new to boating, choose a route on the Upper Shannon starting from Carrick-on-Shannon. The locks are well-managed, and there are plenty of moorings with easy access to shops and pubs. Don’t forget to pack binoculars for birdwatching on Lough Ree and Lough Derg, and always book your “Horizon” class boat early—they are the first to sell out for summer weeks!
Contact & Location Info
Phone: +353 (0)71 962 0234 (Carrick) / +353 (0)90 974 1220 (Portumna)
Email: [email protected]
Location: Both bases are easily accessible by public transport from Dublin or Galway. If you are starting in Portumna, be sure to visit Portumna Castle and Gardens before you set sail—it’s right next to the Emerald Star marina.
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