A self-driving canalboat lets you discover Ireland’s waterways at your own pace, gliding between bustling towns, charming villages and wide-open lakes framed by lush green countryside. No formal boating licence is required on inland routes, and operators give a full briefing before you cast off, so even first-timers can sail safely and enjoy legendary Irish hospitality along the way.

Key Waterways to Navigate

River Shannon – Ireland’s spine

Stretching 360 km from County Cavan to the Atlantic near Limerick, the Shannon is Ireland’s longest river. Popular bases such as Carrick-on-Shannon, Athlone and Portumna give access to the broad lakes of Lough Key, Lough Ree and Lough Derg, each offering sheltered anchorages, fishing spots and friendly pubs on the shore.

Shannon–Erne Waterway – Linking two great lake systems

Opened in 1994 after restoration, this 63 km canal with 16 automated locks connects the Shannon at Leitrim Village to Upper Lough Erne in County Fermanagh. It’s a scenic corridor of rivers, still-water cuts and small lakes—ideal for a leisurely two-day transit or a one-week loop that also includes the Upper Shannon.

River Erne & Lough Erne – Island-studded cruising

Upper and Lower Lough Erne form an intricate network of channels, wooded islands and historic sites such as Devenish Island’s round tower. Hire bases around Bellanaleck and Enniskillen make it easy to explore both lakes or head south onto the Shannon–Erne Waterway.

Highlights Along the Route

Historic sites and charming towns

Medieval abbeys at Clonmacnoise, riverside market squares at Banagher, and Georgian streets in Athlone all sit within easy walking distance of public quays. On Lough Erne, a short dinghy ride brings you to monastic ruins on White Island and ancient carved stones at Boa.

Natural landscapes and wildlife

Herons, kingfishers and occasional otters patrol reed-lined banks, while larger lakes host sailing regattas and summer sunsets that linger late into the evening. Forest parks such as Lough Key provide woodland trails directly beside the marina. 

Watersports and fishing

Lough Derg is renowned for paddle-sports, stand-up paddle-boarding and an inflatable water-park at Dromineer, while Lough Ree is a noted pike and coarse-fishing venue with accessible day-boat hire from Athlone.

Choosing the Right Boat

Penichette and classic cruisers

Penichette-style boats—low-profile barges with walk-around decks—are popular for small families who want easy mooring and good visibility. Modern GRP cruisers offer bow thrusters, spacious saloons and sun-decks, suiting larger groups. Operators typically sleep two to twelve people per vessel.

Self-drive barges for bigger crews

If you’re travelling with extended family or friends, a self-drive barge provides up to five cabins, multiple bathrooms and a generous galley for evenings spent cooking local produce from town markets. Moor up quayside and step straight onto land for a warm welcome in nearby restaurants.

Practical Tips for Sailing Safely

When to go

The navigation season runs year-round, but April–October offers the longest daylight and most visitor facilities. July and August are the busiest months, so consider May, June or September for quieter locks and more mooring choice. (General seasonal advice; check Waterways Ireland for current notices.)

Licences, moorings and rules

• Licences: No inland boat-driving licence is required, but vessels over certain sizes must register with Waterways Ireland.

• Speed limits: Keep below 5 km/h within 200 m of bridges, quays or jetties.

• Mooring: Public harbours allow stays of up to five consecutive days (seven within a month) on the Shannon and Shannon–Erne.

Book Your Canalboat Adventure with Boataround

Ready to explore Ireland’s waterways on your own floating cottage? Boataround partners with reputable local fleets offering penichette boats, cruisers and self-drive barges on the Shannon, Erne and the historic canals. Compare vessels, secure transparent pricing, and set off with a full briefing and 24-hour support. Book your canalboat holiday with Boataround today and discover the Emerald Isle from the water, at your own pace.

Yacht charter and Boat rental in Ireland

Charter a yacht and explore Ireland! Prices start from 82 € per day. Choose from the largest selection of houseboats.

Popular regions are Leitrim, Galway and Leinster.