Running from Toomebridge on the shores of Lough Neagh to Coleraine, the Lower Bann is a beautifully scenic river with an excellent navigation system and an unspoilt environment. It is anticipated that a 7-day holiday will allow travellers to see all of the river and to have some extra time to discover the hinterland.
On the river, there are only four locks, all manned by helpful lock-keepers. The river is easily navigated with the same navigation system as Lough Erne so will be familiar to many of Carrickcraft's clients.
There are many interesting attractions along the river including the ancient fort at Mountsandel in Coleraine where archaeologists have found evidence of a human settlement more than 9,000 years old. This makes Mountsandel the oldest known human settlement in Ireland.
The main towns along the way are Toomebridge (home to the Crosskeys Inn, the oldest thatched pub in Northern Ireland), Portglenone, Kilrea and Coleraine. There is also an excellent watersports centre at Drumaheglis and plenty of opportunities to try a bit of fishing.
From the Drumaheglis marina (between Ballymoney and Coleraine) where we are based, it is only a short taxi-ride to some of Northern Ireland's biggest tourist attractions such as the Giant's Causeway, Bushmills Distillery, Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge and Dunluce Castle. And of course the world-famous Royal Portrush Golf Course.
Access to Drumaheglis is excellent, being only 60 minutes from either of Belfast's main airports and less than an hour from City of Derry Airport. We recommed that you hire a car from the airport and drive to Coleraine along the spectacular Antrim Coast Road with its charming villages and views of the sea and glens. Another option is to take the train from Belfast along the coastal route - described by Michael Palin as "One of the most beautiful rail journeys in the world".
Our Price Promise: We can't promise to match any price on the Shannon - our boats aren't the same and comparison is impossible. But we do promise to give you a first class service before and during your holiday. We will give you top-rate instruction, both online before you arrive and then on your boat. We will respond to any problem quickly and efficiently and we will do everything we can to enhance your enjoyment.