How do I get to the marina?
You can get detailed information on getting to the marina HERE but a summary follows. Most of the companies that we represent provide a transfer service from Major airports to their marinas. Shared transfers take passengers from several flights and take them to marinas on the river, and these cost between €65 and €80 per person for the round trip (airport-marina-airport), and one way transfer are available for approximately half the price. More information on prices for transfers is available on each company page (go to the map page and click on the name of the hire company). Shared transfers are available on Saturday for most companies, and Wednesday or Friday may also be available depending on the time of year and the company in question. Private transfers are also available, prices on request.
What time can I collect the boat, and what time do I bring it back at?
The collection time with all of the cruiser companies is 4pm - this is to allow time for the boat to be cleaned and maintained from the previous crew. All of the companies try to get short breaks out at about 2pm and usually succeed unless the marina is very busy. The boat should be returned by 9am or 10am on the final morning depending on the company, again to allow time to clean and maintain the boat for the next crew.
What's on the boat?
Everything that you need to live on board is provided on the boat. Fresh bed-linen and towels, all cutlery and crockery, cooking utensils etc. Every boat has at least one bathroom with shower, and from four berth up most will have two or more. There is a fully functional galley on board with a small cooker and oven/grill and a small fridge.
Is there electricity on the boat?
All of the boats have 12v cigarette lighter sockets for charging mobile phones or laptops, although you'll need to bring your own adaptor. Some of the larger boats have limited 220v outlets, and some have special low-voltage hairdryers, televisions and DVD players. Some companies will provide an inverter for 220v power.
Some of the newer boats on the Shannon have shore power, which means that you can plug the boats power system into the quayside and have full 220v power. The problem is that shore power is relatively new in Ireland and there aren't too many places to plug in. Waterways Ireland are adding new shore power points along the river and there are a list of available shore power points in the Guide to Irelands Waterways booklet, available here
Is there Heating on the boat?
All of the boats have warm air central heating that runs of it's own motor so there's no need to run the main engine to heat the boat. You'll need to run the main engine for hot water.
Are life jackets and safety equipment provided?
Life jackets are provided for crew members of all ages, and the marina staff will be happy to fit
life jackets to children. Fire safety equipment is also on board - fire extinguishers and fire blankets.
How fast do the boats go?
Not very fast. The idea of a Shannon River cruise is to relax and unwind, and most of the boats have a maximum speed of about 10-15Kph.
What do I need to take with me?
All of the cruisers are fully equipped with everything you need to live on board - bed linen, towels, soap, toilet paper, a fully equipped galley with cooker and hob, all crockery and cutlery, a fridge. Life jackets are available for adults and children and fire extinguisher(s) and a first-aid-kit are on board. Most of the companies will supply a torch, binoculars and a dinghy. One thing we always recommend at Shannon River is that you take some extra towels if possible. You will of course have to provide your own food and drinks and optional recommended items include rubber-soled shoes for grip and soft luggage that stores easily (although most of the companies will store hard luggage for you on request).