Canal & river boating holidays in Ireland
Come boating in Ireland and enjoy mystic waterways and a warm welcome
Come to Ireland and experience its stunning, crystal clear lakes and rivers, dramatic scenery and lush, green landscapes. Discover boating holidays in Ireland on the beautiful River Shannon and River Erne—and their surrounding network of loughs—easy to cruise with no licence required and a delight to explore.
Boating regions in Ireland
Our boating region in Ireland offers two main cruising areas: the River Shannon and the Erne canal and river system, each with its own routes and cruising style.
Explore Ireland by water
Explore the heart of Ireland by boat, travelling between the River Shannon and the Erne on the Shannon–Erne Waterway that connects the two systems. It’s an easy-going journey through calm waterways and shimmering loughs, with marinas/moorings and plenty to do on and off the water—from gentle cycling and walking trails to relaxed dining and local culture.
What our customers think of boating holidays in Ireland
“We received a warm welcome. Everything was explained clearly. The boat was pristine and very well equipped. We asked for extra pillows, nothing was a problem. I have already recommended Emerald Star to friends and family as too have the rest of the crew. We found we got great value for the short break. We had a kitty of 175 euros each. This covered everything including food shop and breakfast on the way home!”
Liz Kavanagh, Elegance
Ireland canal boat holiday FAQs
No licence or previous boating experience is required to hire a canal boat in Ireland. Before you depart, Emerald Star’s base team will give you a full briefing and practical training so you feel confident handling the boat, navigating locks, and mooring safely.
Emerald Star offers well-maintained, fully equipped canal boats and access to Ireland’s most scenic inland waterways. With local support, clear route advice and no licence required, Emerald Star makes it easy to enjoy a relaxed boating holiday at your own pace.
Emerald Star offers a range of modern canal boats in Ireland, from compact models for couples to larger boats suitable for families and groups. All boats are designed for comfort and ease of use, with private cabins, onboard kitchens, bathrooms and generous outdoor space for enjoying the views.