Cruising

Meander down the renowned Shannon-Erne Waterway or along the majestic River Erne and you'll find that Cavan is ideal for cruising. Dotted with shimmering lakes and rivers, this area of Ireland is a genuine boaters paradise.

THE SHANNON- ERNE WATERWAY
The Shannon-Erne Waterway traverses 62.5 kms of lake and river and still canal sections. With 16 fully automatic locks, 34 stone bridges and 6 fully serviced mooring areas, the waterway invites you to enjoy cruising, fishing, walking cycling, canoeing, golf and horse riding along Europe's longest navigable Inland waterway.

 Work on the original canal started in 1846 and took 14 years to complete. The dream of permanently joining the great Rivers Shannon and the Erne was fulfilled.  However the canal remained open for only 9 years as the age of steam and the railways rendered the canal redundant. However, in 1994 the canal re-opened, and now pleasure cruisers ply the old waterway once again. 

The waterway exquisitely weaves together the streams, rivers and lakes which are picturesquely scattered between Leitrim Village and the Erne. Sixteen locks will ensure the waterway is viable and the variety of landscape and wildlife, as well as the great historical and archaeological sites en route, guarantee the popularity of this superb and peaceful  highway. For the first time in 150 years, 300km of navigable waterway can be enjoyed by lovers of walking, cycling, canoeing and sailing.

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RIVER ERNE
Eighty-four km of the RIver Erne is navigable from Belturbet to Belleek in Co Fermanagh. THere is only one lock on the system, Portora Lock. Services are located at many locations along the river. Having been a trade route for the Vikings the Erne system has never been a modern commerical navigation. It is truly unspoilt and tranquil leisure oriented expanse of water for boating enthusiasts and game and coarse anglers.

For further information including maps and guides to both the Shannon - Erne Waterway and River Erne, contact Waterways Ireland or Inland Waterways Association  of Ireland

CRUISER HIRE COMPANIES