Everyone is getting ready to make a dash for it this Summer and staycations are top of the list. Here at Silver Line Cruisers, with over 40 years in the business, we are one of the premium Shannon cruising companies providing boat rental in Ireland and are looking forward to welcoming our guests on board our fleet this Summer.
About Silver Line Cruisers
Centrally located in Banagher, County Offaly, we are a local, family run business with huge attention to detail and friendly hospitality. We offer a luxurious, new fleet of boats for every size catered for – from 2 up to 12 berths. All of the boats have their own galley Kitchen fully fitted out, WC and showers, inside seating and outside sun deck area. Our fleet are carefully chosen for their ease in maneoverability, cosy interior living spaces in contemporary hues. It’s safe to say that many decide not to leave their boat and prefer to relax in luxury onboard, as they float past the green lush countryside, towns and villages, historic landmarks, hiking trails and other attractions on the shores of Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands.
Where to start?
We are well used to beginners on the water here at Banagher Marina and our Experts are highly trained in orientating you on the rules of the waterways and how to manage a boat. We will train you up so you will feel confident in all aspects of water safety. For more on what to expect, read our beginner’s guide to boating holiday’s blog and review our FAQs for more information. And we’ll bring you up to speed on all aspects of the Captain’s Handbook to Cruising. We’ll supply you with life jackets (correctly sized and fitted). Our luxurious fleet of boats are fully fitted and your Cruiser will be freshly cleaned, santised and ready for you when you arrive.
Decide Your Length of Stay & Choose Your Route
The joy of taking the wheel of your own Cruiser is that you are the Captain of your own adventure so you can decide everything. Ahead of leaving the marina, we will help you plan a route based on your length of stay and your interests. Whether you want to test your adventure skills by learning how to paddle board or set a new personal best at the assault course at Bay Sports, Ireland’s largest inflatable water park in Hodson Bay Athlone, or try your hand at fly fishing or exploring the River Shannon on a canoe, or simply sit back, relax and marvel at the historic landmarks and gorgeous countryside, there’s unmissable adventures, suitable for everyone.
The rich cultural heritage of Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands is spectacular. And you can see why its on the ‘must-see’ list of so many international guests. Take in the sights such as the breath-taking 17th Century Portumna Castle, right on the shores of Lough Derg, Clonmacnoise, the Anglo-Norman Castle dating back to the 12th Century, Lough Key Forest Park with its adventure trails for hiking and adventure activities and the spectacular medieval King John’s Castle in Limerick. Another highlight to visit ashore is the parish of Killaloe, both in terms of its buildings and people associated with them. Both Killaloe and especially Tuamgraney claim a special connection with Brian Boru, the last High King of Ireland from 940 -1014 who lived and reigned there. The visitor’s centre includes a gift shop, crafts centre and an exhibition tracing the history of Killaloe from the 10th century to the present day including its strong nautical links with Lough Derg, the largest of the River Shannon Lakes.
A poignant and fascinating trip ashore not to be missed, is the visit to the Portumna Workhouse which dates back to 1852 and was built for six hundred inmates. Many would say that the startlingly beautiful Holy Island of Lough Derg (Inis Cealtra) on Lough Derg’s Western shore is definitely one sight note to be missed, and a cruise around it is a treasure to be remembered forever.
Just as memorable and simply fun is to dine alfresco on the shores of the River Shannon as you moor up for the night. Relax and unwind or go for a swim off the boat, the possibilities are endless.
