Cruising the river Shannon is one of Ireland most unique and wonderful experiences. It offers a relaxing and tranquil break which will leave you craving more. With 33 lovely villages and towns along it’s banks there are some fantastic restaurants to enjoy. In fact some of the finest and most popular restaurants in Ireland are located here and this three day Northern Shannon cruise will allow you to sample the very best culinary delights that the river Shannon has to offer.

Day 1

When departing from Carrick on Shannon it is advised not to leave this beautiful town on an empty stomach. One of our favourite restaurants in Carrick in of course the Courtyard Kitchen. This has won many awards and offers a casual dining experience. It is perfect for lunch or dinner and the staff are very inviting and friendly. On returning to your cruiser make sure take a look at the tiny Costello Church. This is the third smallest in Europe and is nicely tucked away at the corner of the main street. It makes for a very interesting visit. Upon on leaving Carrick travel north to the delightful tourist town of Leitrim Village. The is plenty of space for mooring here and the famous Leitrim Inn Tavern is a great place to enjoy a pint of Guinness, a chat and some Irish music.

Day 2

Turing back south towards the Shannon but this time heading west for Lough Key. This is a very popular location and attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors every year. On the far side of the Lough is the town of Boyle and there are many attractions to explore here including the recently restored Boyle abbey near the river, the grand King House and a newly opened model railway. If visiting on a Saturday, there is a farmers market in the grounds of King House which is full of fantastic local artisan produce which would make a wonderful lunch on board while exploring the Lough and give you ample energy for your journey south to the twin Loughs of Boffin and Boderg. These are studded with islands and are great for exploring. On the eastern side of the Loughs is the town of Dromod and next to the towns marina is Harkins Bistro which is a splendid restaurant. Your host Adrian even speaks five languages and is very charming in every one of them. The Bistro offers spectacular views of the Loughs and superb food. However is your are in the mood for one of the best steaks along the Shannon then the famous Cox’s Steakhouse is only a short walk into the town. After some fine food and craic in Dromod there will still be time for an adventure. To the very west of the Lough and about 1.5 hours cruise from Dromod is the Silver Eel pub and marina. This is a very popular spot for Shannon cruisers and you will be able to moor up here for the night and enjoy a drink or two with your fellow cruisers. Irish music is played here regularly and it is a great place to unwind, the surrounding scenery is also stunning.

Day 3

Today is all about exploring and the best way to start is by travelling south through the raising bridge at Roosky and along the narrowing and winding river until you reach Lough Ree (Lake of the Kings). Lough Ree is a wonderful place to explore and has many islands. Most of these have a significant place is Irish history and you will see the ruins of churches and monasteries on several of them. To the west of the Lough and up a short canal is the small village of Lecarrow and the Yew Tree Restaurant. This is a wonderful place for a lunch and has won awards in each of the last five years. Upon leaving Lecarrow, it will be time to make your way back towards Carrick on Shannon as you will need to drop the cruiser back to base in the morning. Just one more stop and this is the best of all. It will be evening by the time you reach the walled medieval village of Jamestown and here you will find one of Irelands best little restaurants ‘The Cottages’. This restaurant is famous all over Ireland for it’s unique Asian fusion and Sham the head chef is a local celebrity in this part of the country. It is advised that you book ahead and a visit here on your final night will certainly be and unforgettable experience. Jamestown has amble mooring for you to spend the night and Carrick on Shannon is only a few miles away for your trip back to base in the morning.