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Irish outdoor clothing and footwear brand Dubarry has announced the launch of its new Palermo range of trainers, designed to offer both on and off-the-water performance.

Dubarry says the Palermo combines the classic sneaker style with modern materials to provide exceptional ventilation and comfort, making it the perfect choice for long days on deck or exploring ashore. 

Featuring a super-lightweight sole and an upper mesh structure for excellent ventilation, the Palermo style takes a classic sneaker shape, making it a useful off-shore option as well. Additionally, a toe guard increases its durability and provides protection when moving quickly on deck. The removable footbed also allows for easy washing to keep trainers performing for longer. 

 The new Palermo range is available in a range of colours and sizes and is sure to be a hit with outdoor enthusiasts, hikers, and sailors alike The new Palermo range is available in a range of colours and sizes and is sure to be a hit with outdoor enthusiasts, hikers, and sailors alike

The sporty bi-compound sole unit and lightweight premium EVA compound midsole ensure maximum comfort and support, while the non-slip and non-marking outsole comes with a unique water dispersal channel system to prevent aquaplaning. The Palermo also features a traditional lace-up facing for a secure and custom foot fit, a synthetic mesh and lycra upper with an anti-odour, anti-microbial finish that is quick-drying and breathable, and a KPU toe guard that offers high wear resistance and protection in this area.

Published in Marine Clothing
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As Sunday’s start of the Transat en Double race to Saint Barthélemy was postponed because of severe weather forecasted for the Bay of Biscay, Tom Dolan and Dubarry are pleased to make use of the delay to announce an extension of their partnership.

Ireland’s leading solo offshore sailor, Tom Dolan, has extended his long-standing partnership with marine footwear and clothing brand Dubarry for a further three years.

The skipper of Smurfit Kappa has just taken a timely delivery of a full collection of pieces from their New Aquatech range as he prepares to take on the Atlantic for the imminent "Transat en Double", Concarneau- Saint Barthélemy race.

Transat en Double competitors Gildas Mahé (left) and Tom DolanTransat en Double competitors Gildas Mahé (left) and Tom Dolan Photo: Alexis Courcoux

“Dubarry were the first on board back in 2016 when they really showed some early interest and faith in me. Michael Walsh sent me over a pair of boots for my first serious mini-campaign and after five full racing seasons, including three Atlantic crossings, I still use them today! Since then we've had a great relationship and stay in close touch, they have always taken an interest in what I am doing and clearly, they feel I do a reasonable job for them. I am really delighted they have chosen to extend our partnership.” smiled Dolan, “They are an Irish company achieving global success in their markets and I am proud to fly their colours.”

Tom will be fully kitted out with pieces from the new Dubarry Aquatech clothing range, with footwear as well as some financial support. “We are proud to support Tom and to share in his story seeing him progress from leaving his native rural County Meath to pursue his dream in France” commented Michael Walsh Marketing Director of Dubarry. “We like Toms professional yet friendly approach both on and off the water and value the feedback he can provide us on the performance of our footwear and clothing, which our Design team can then incorporate into the product development process” added Walsh.

Published in Tom Dolan
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The Women's Open Keelboat Championship (WOKC) will be returning to Hamble for its 12th edition in June 2021.

After sadly having to cancel the 2020 edition of the event organiser say they can’t wait to see lots of boats on the start line of WOKC 2021.

The 2021 event will take place on the 5th-6th of June out of the Royal Southern Yacht Club.

Alongside its IRC classes, WOKC has teamed up with the RYA to join the event with the British Keelboat League. This will give more opportunities to women who would like to compete at the event.

For the first time, teams will be able to enter the event and race in a competitive fleet without having to find a boat to use. Teams of 4 women can enter and compete in the event without having to find a boat to use/charter opening up the event to sailors who don’t have access to a keelboat. Further to that, the winners of the RS21/BKL fleet will qualify for the British Keelboat League Final.

RS21 racingRS21 racing

In addition to this, WOKC has also increased the upper limit of the IRC rating band to 1.150. This is to include all Performance 40’s and the new, exciting Cape 31 class should these boats wish to enter.

WOKC were able to do this as there will now be two separate race courses, one for the RS21’s and the other for the IRC fleet.

“We’re very excited to be joining forces with the British Keelboat League, it’s such a great way to get more sailors out on the water. It means we can open the event to more women from all over the country, allowing those who do not have access to yachts to enter the event. We are extremely grateful to Dubarry for their continued support and Royal Southern Yacht Club who are helping us to grow the event.” said Tor Tomlinson, Event Organiser.

Dubarry logo

“It is great that we are able to bring a British Keelboat League Qualifier to the Women’s Open Keelboat Championship this year. The WOKC is a great opportunity for talented sailors to get together and compete against their peers but it can be hard for those not already in the loop to get involved. By adding the BKL to the event we hope to see many more sailors get involved and hopefully, they can make connections to do more yacht and keelboat racing in the future. I am really looking forward to this year's racing, said Jack Fenwick, RYA Keelboat Development Manager.

Entries open for IRC at the beginning of April and with early bird entry of £80, available until 7th May. After that date, the entry fee will increase to £100. Entries will be open on the Royal Southern website here

Entries for BKL/RS21 racing is £330 per team. This includes entry, coaching and boat charter here

The Women’s Open Keelboat Championship was founded in 2008 by a group of passionate female sailors who wanted to compete in challenging racing against other women. Over the years the team behind the regatta has evolved but the vision has remained the same.

The organisers are all volunteers and donations of support, time and charity raffle prizes are all gratefully received. The event is non-profit making with all proceeds going to a nominated charity.

Published in Racing

Along with its new performance trainers, Dubarry’s Aquatech collection also includes marine clothing for all conditions you’ll experience on the water.

The clothing collection contains many protective features ranging from UPF sun protection, wind and water resistance to highly breathable performance.

There are many practical attributes such as anti-odour, moisture wicking, quick dry and even a hidden removable eyewear cleaning cloth on most styles.

And selected styles are designed to allow for personalisation, with space for embroidery or printing of boat, team or crew names.

Levanto and Corfu are the new lightweight crew jacket designs in the Aquatech range.

Dubarry Levanto

The Levanto men’s crew jacket is a stylish and versatile, durable and practical, and offers exceptional levels of waterproofing and breathability for this style of jacket while preserving your freedom of movement and keeping you snug inside.

Key features include taped seams and adjustable cuffs to keep water out and warmth in while allowing an adjustable fit. The lightweight polyester mesh lining adds extra insulation and super-soft nylon inner sleeves make it effortless to slip on and off.

The zipped, stand-up collar is equipped with a chin guard and a cleverly concealed, rollaway hood keeps the worst of the weather at bay. There’s also a built-in cleaning cloth on a bungee cord to keep your eyewear crystal clear.

Dubarry Corfu

The Corfu women’s crew jacket is a reliably waterproof and impressively breathable. This snug new style of lightweight jacket is designed and built to provide excellent insulation from chilly headwinds without being heavy or bulky.

It’s loaded with technical features like fully taped seams, padded chin guard and adjustable cuffs, impermeable outer shell and super-soft inner lining. The zipped, stand-up collar keeps the wind chill off your neck and incorporates a neatly concealed, rollaway hood that deploys in an instant when the weather turns foul.

It’s stylish and comfortable, cosy and practical. Details include top-quality YKK zips and an optical-grade cloth on a stretchy cord in one of the pockets to wipe the salt spray off your sunglasses.

Both the Levanto and Corfu are available in two colours and various sizes (Levanto S–3XL; Corfu 32–44), priced at €169 RRP.

Dubarry Sicily

Keep out the chill on deck is easy with the Mustique and Sicily full-zip fleece jackets.

The Sicily fleece (above) is medium-weight, soft-textured and ideal for any sort of boating in a temperate climate. Not just warm and quick-drying but also wind resistant and fully breathable.

And with a full-length zip so you can slip it on easily and shrug it off in an instant — ideal for days of patchy sunshine and gusty winds, and when the breeze builds up or the temperature drops, the well-engineered zips won’t leave you fumbling with cold fingers.

In chillier weather, it’s the perfect mid-layer to wear under your all-weather foulies, providing excellent insulation without being too bulky.

Technical features include a stretchy hem and cuffs for a flexible fit, zipped hand-warmer pockets with a warm, brushed lining, a draught-excluding chin guard, and flat locked seams for comfort.

Dubarry Mustique

The Mustique fleece is for any sort of boating in a temperate climate and when you’ll need a warm, quick-drying fleece, ideally one with a full-length zip so you can slip it on in an instant when the sun disappears behind the clouds.

The mid-weight fleece retains heat effectively while remaining breathable, with a texture that feels cosy against the skin — ideal as a mid-layer garment providing excellent insulation beneath your all-weather foulies, or worn as an outer layer in more clement weather. It also comes with technical features comparable as the Sicily.

Like the crew jackets, the Mustique and Sicily are available in two colours and various sizes (Mustique S–3XL; Sicily 32–44). The Mustique is priced at €99 RRP, with the Sicily at €89 RRP.

Complete the look and browse footwear, polos, shorts and accessories from Dubarry’s new Aquatech collection in the virtual catalogue HERE.

Published in Marine Clothing
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Dubarry’s new Aquatech Collection has been specifically designed for use across a wide variety of nautical environments.

Joining the existing Easkey and Skerries trainers for men and for women are the Antibes and Palma. Both are available in multiple colours and retail at €129 RRP.

They come with all the key performance features you would expect from Dubarry’s heritage dating back to 1937.

The trademark NonSlip-NonMarking rubber outsole delivers sure-footedness on all deck surfaces, thanks to a unique system of water dispersion channels that prevent aquaplaning.

And coupled with the lightweight EVA midsole, both shoes offer exceptional underfoot comfort.

Dubarry Antibes Navy

Antibes is an ultra-light, high-performance sneaker that’s engineered to boost your natural agility and is loaded with numerous technical features.

The hardwearing sole has excellent shock-absorbing performance and the removable footbed moulds to the contours of your instep, delivering the ultimate comfort.

The super-soft upper is made from quick-drying technical fabric with antimicrobial and anti-odour properties built in. And the partly concealed lacing is precisely adjustable to ensure a perfect fit.

Dubarry Palma Kingfisher

Palma is Dubarry’s our super-light, sure-footed and sporty sneaker offering the ultimate comfort.

Extra-soft uppers and full lacing for a precise fit are combined with a uniquely designed footbed that moulds to match the shape of your foot, plus a high-performance shock absorbing EVA midsole.

Remarkable agility is assured on deck — or anywhere else — with signature NonSlip-NonMarking outsoles. The footbed is removable for easy washing and the uppers are made from quick-drying, breathable and anti-microbial technical fabrics.

Complementing these are the lightweight Fastnet boots (RRP €229) which have an athletic design with outstanding technical performance.

They are not just waterproof, with a breathable membrane; they're impressively shock-absorbent, too. The removable footbed provides extra cushioning and the D-Chassis system delivers additional support, protection and control for heels and toes while preserving your agility.

And the award-winning NonSlip-NonMarking rubber outsole has a unique water dispersion channel system to eliminate the risk of aquaplaning on wet decks.

Dubarry Dungarvan

Meanwhile, the Dungarvan deck shoe (RRP €169) combines the classic good looks of authentic, traditionally handmade leather deck shoes with the shock absorption, support and comfort of lightweight technical trainers, plus the excellent grip of Dubarry’s award-winning NonSlip-NonMarking outsoles.

The uppers are crafted from high-quality nubuck and our unique DryFast-DrySoft leathers with a water-resistant finish and a hand sewn, waterproof chain butt seam on the toecap.

Explore the full Aquatech collection — including the Crosshaven, Ultima and Shamrock boots built for the ocean — in the virtual catalogue HERE.

Published in Marine Clothing
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Dubarry sailing boots have long had a connection with top offshore teams around the world so it was no surprise to many sailors when Vendee Globe winner Yannick Bestaven wore the same as he crossed the Les Sables d’Olonne line. 

When Bestaven stood on the bow of Maître Coq IV to greet the world's press he was sporting a pair of Dubarry's high-performance Crosshaven gaiter sailing boots, handing the County Galway firm some international front-page news coverage into the bargain!

The 48-year-old French skipper of Maître Coq IV actually took the gun for third place at 03hrs 19mins 46 secs early last Thursday morning, because he carried a time compensation of 10 hours and 15 minutes, awarded by an international jury for his role in the search and rescue of fellow competitor Kevin Escoffier. It's a seamanship story that adds richly to Besthaven's well deserved win of the ninth edition of the race.

Bestaven took victory 2hrs 31mins 01secs ahead of Charlie Dalin and 6hrs 40mins 26secs of Louis Burton who both finished ahead of him and take second and third respectively.

First across the line Charlie Dalin also wore Ireland's Dubarry Crosshaven boots Photo: Vendee GlobeFirst across the line Charlie Dalin also wore Ireland's Dubarry Crosshaven boots Photo: Vendee Globe 

And as images of the winner were beamed around the world from Les Sables d’Olonne, Ireland's connection as a top marine clothing innovator was there for all to see, thanks to his uniquely designed Irish Dubarry footwear. 

The Crosshaven boat by Dubarry high performance, thermally insulated, ExtraFit™gaiter sailing boot. Upper consists of a uniquely designed leather vamp and counter with minimal seams to reduce wear in critical areas. More on the boot here

Published in Marine Clothing
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The Dubarry Winter Sale starts today.

The Irish sailing footwear and clothing manufacturer is offering up to 40% off selected items until the 17th January.

Shop here.

 

 

Published in Marine Clothing
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Get a free pair of Dubarry Kilrush socks with €29 when you buy a pair of selected Dubarry boots from CH Marine.

No ordinary yarn went into the Dubarry Kilrush long PrimaLoft socks. They mixed insulating Primaloft with Merino wool, nylon and elastane which, combined, made a soft, warm, stretchy strong sock.

Not just that, they are designed to fit right and left feet individually, and have an elasticated section that grips for support.

Dubarry Kilrush socks come free with CH Marine’s choice selection of Dubuarry’s Fastnet, Shamrock and Ultima sailing boots while stocks last until Christmas Eve.

And don’t miss out on CH Marine’s flash Black Friday deals on Zhik gear and Musto items which must end this Monday 30 November.

Published in CH Marine Chandlery
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Our story last week, about how Gary Mac Mahon of the restored trading ketch Ilen of Limerick has launched a unique ship’s model-making competition to express the Ilen spirit, has rung a bell in Ballinasloe in County Galway, at the headquarters of the international outdoor footwear and clothing company Dubarry of Ireland

The Ilen competition offers a prize of a €150 Amazon Gift Voucher for children (or children and their families) who can create a model which best captures the spirit of Ilen and her original crew with a simplified miniature of the ship based on a very re-purposed Tetra Pak carton, the other materials involved being hopefully available in any contemporary family home.

ilen tetrapak model2 The essence of Ilen with her original skipper Conor O’Brien and his crew is expressed in this model based on a very re-purposed Tetra Pak carton

The idea is to provide the kind of imagination and ingenuity-testing challenge that will help us all get through the National Lockdown. And when the idea was revealed in Afloat.ie last week, Michael Walsh of Dubarry quickly responded: “What a great idea. I’d very much appreciate it if you would pass on to Gary Mac Mahon that Dubarry would very happily pitch in with a pair of Dubarry Boots or Deck Shoes for the winner”.

Dubarry boots3 The Ilen Model competition has been greatly expanded with a choice of Dubarry Sailing Boots (above) and Dubarry Deck Shoes added to the prize

Now Dubarry of Ireland is Official Partners in the Ilen Project Model Competition, which makes the already good prize into a very worthwhile proposition. So folks young and old, once you’ve finished browsing the Dubarry range to find the Dubarry boot or deck-shoe of your choice, let’s get back to work on those models – the closing date is May 22nd.

Published in Ilen
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Belgian solo sailor Caroline Adriens has departed southwards from Galway after spending nearly a year in the popular west coast port with her 30ft Albin Ballad.

She had arrived in Galway in September 2018 from Tromsø in Norway via Shetland, Orkney, Cape Wrath, the west coast of Scotland, Northern Ireland, northwest Ireland and the coast of Connacht before mooring up in Galway for the winter in the welcoming shelter of the dock.

Her boat, a classic Albin Ballad, is of a successful and seaworthy marque that was built in Sweden between 1971 and 1982 and has now been overhauled in Galway in advance of her dream to sail around the world.

belgian woman launching2Hiawatha in the slings in Galway, Caroline Adriens on left

Caroline said of her plans that: “It’s an itch that I’ve wanted to scratch for quite some time, and I’m finally realising my dream when I depart from Galway.

It will be the first time that I have actually sailed on my own. I'm excited, but of course a little nervous, as the ocean is a big place and my boat is not so big".

On hearing of Caroline's impending trip, Michael Walsh of Dubarry wasted no time in supporting Caroline with a pair of Shamrock Sailing Boots to ensure she departed Galway with the best women's sailing footwear on the market.

Caroline plans to be in Portugal for the winter via the Scilly Isles in early September, and has reached Valentia Island in Kerry by way of Fenit on Tralee Bay in the first stages of her voyage southward.

belgian womans boat3 Belgian solo sailor Caroline Adriens’ Hiawatha is a well-proven Albin Ballad built in Sweden in the 1980s

Published in Galway Harbour
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General Information on using Waterways Ireland inland navigations

Safety on the Water

All users of the navigations are strongly recommended to make themselves aware of safety on the water for whatever activity they are involved in and to read the advice offered by the various governing bodies and by:

The Dept. of Transport, Ireland: www.gov.ie/transport and The Maritime and Coastguard Agency, UK, The RNLI – Water Safety Ireland for information in terms of drowning prevention and water safety.

Registration of Vessels

All vessels using the Shannon Navigation, which includes the Shannon-Erne Waterways and the Erne System must be registered with Waterways Ireland. Only open undecked boats with an engine of 15 horsepower or less on the Shannon Navigation, and vessels of 10 horsepower or less on the Erne System, are exempt. Registration is free of charge.

Craft registration should be completed online at: https://www.waterwaysireland.org/online-services/craft-registration

Permits for use of the Grand and Royal Canals and the Barrow Navigation

All vessels using the Grand and Royal Canals and the Barrow Navigation must display appropriate valid Permit(s) i.e A Combined Mooring and Passage Permit (€126) and if not intending to move every five days, an Extended Mooring Permit (€152).

Permit applications should be completed online at: https://www.waterwaysireland.org/online-services/canal-permits

Passage on the Royal and Grand Canals – Dublin Area

For boat passage through the locks east of Lock 12 into / out of Dublin on either the Royal or Grand Canals, Masters are requested to contact the Waterways Ireland Eastern Regional Office (M-F 9.30am-4.30pm) on tel: +353(0)1 868 0148 or email [email protected] prior to making passage in order to plan the necessary lock-keeping assistance arrangements.

On the Grand Canal a minimum of two days notice prior to the planned passage should be given, masters should note that with the exception of pre-arranged events, a maximum of 2 boats per day will be taken through the locks, travelling either east or west.

Movements in or out of the city will be organised by prior arrangement to take place as a single movement in one day. Boaters will be facilitated to travel the system if their passage is considered to be safe by Waterways Ireland and they have the valid permit(s) for mooring and passage.

Newcomen Lifting Bridge

On the Royal Canal two weeks’ notice of bridge passage (Newcomen Lifting Bridge) is required for the pre-set lift date, and lock assistance will then also be arranged. A minimum of 2 boats is required for a bridge lift to go ahead.

Waterways Ireland Eastern Regional Office (Tel: +353(0)1 868 0148 or [email protected] ) is the point of contact for the bridge lift.

A maximum number of boats passing will be implemented to keep to the times given above for the planned lifts (16 for the Sat / Sun lifts & 8 for the weekday lifts). Priority will be given on a first come first served basis.

On day of lift, boaters and passengers must follow guidance from Waterways Ireland staff about sequence of passage under bridge & through Lock 1, and must remain within signed and designated areas.

Events Held on the Waterways

All organised events taking place on the waterways must have the prior approval of Waterways Ireland. This is a twelve week process and application forms must be accompanied with the appropriate insurance, signed indemnity and risk assessment. The application should be completed on the Waterways Ireland events page at :

https://www.waterwaysireland.org/online-services/event-approval

Time Limits on Mooring in Public Harbours

On the Shannon Navigation and the Shannon-Erne Waterway craft may berth in public harbours for five consecutive days or a total of seven days in any one month.

On the Erne System, revised Bye Laws state that: No master or owner shall permit a vessel, boat or any floating or sunken object to remain moored at or in the vicinity of any public mooring, including mooring at any other public mooring within 3 kilometres of that location, for more than 3 consecutive days and shall not moor at that same mooring or any other public mooring within 3 kilometres of that location within the following 3 consecutive days without prior permission by an authorised official.

Winter Mooring on the Shannon Navigation and Shannon Erne Waterway

Winter mooring may be availed of by owners during the period 1 Nov to 31 Mar by prior arrangement and payment of a charge of €63.50 per craft. Craft not availing of Winter Mooring must continue to comply with the “5 Day Rule”. Winter Mooring applications should be completed online at : https://www.waterwaysireland.org/online-services/winter-moorings-booking

Owners should be aware that electricity supply and water supply to public moorings is disconnected for the winter months. This is to protect against frost damage, to reduce running costs and to minimise maintenance requirements during the winter months.

Vessel owners are advised that advance purchasing of electricity on the power bollards leading up to the disconnection date should be minimal. Electricity credit existing on the bollards will not be recoverable after the winter decommissioning date. Both services will be reinstated prior to the commencement of the next boating season.

Smart Cards

Waterways Ireland smart cards are used to operate locks on the Shannon Erne Waterway, to access the service blocks, to use the pump-outs along the navigations, to avail of electrical power at Waterways Ireland jetties.

Berthing in Public Harbours

Masters are reminded of the following:

  • Equip their vessel with mooring lines of appropriate length and strength and only secure their craft to mooring bollards and cleats provided for this purpose.
  • Ensure the available berth is suitable to the length of your vessel, do not overhang the mooring especially on finger moorings on floating pontoon moorings.
  • Ensure mooring lines, electric cables and fresh water hoses do not create a trip hazard on public jetties for others users.
  • Carry sufficient fenders to prevent damage to your own vessel, other vessels and WI property.
  • Allow sufficient space between your vessel and the vessel ahead /astern (c.1m) for fire safety purposes and /or to recover somebody from the water.
  • Do not berth more than two vessels side by side and ensure there is safe access/egress at all times between vessels and onto the harbour itself.
  • Do not berth in such a way to prevent use of harbour safety ladders, slipways or pump-outs.
  • Do not allow the bow of your vessel to overhang the walkway of a floating mooring thus creating a hazard for others with an overhanging anchor or bow fendering.
  • Animals are not allowed to be loose or stray at any time.
  • Harbour and jetty infrastructure such as railings, power pedestals, fresh water taps, electric light poles, safety bollards, ladders etc are not designed for the purpose of mooring craft , they will not bear the strain of a vessel and will be damaged.
  • At Carrybridge on the Erne System, Masters of vessels are not permitted to use stern on mooring. Masters of vessels must use the mooring fingers for mooring of vessels and for embarkation / disembarkation from vessels.

Passenger Vessel Berths

Masters of vessels should not berth on passenger vessel berths where it is indicated that an arrival is imminent. Passenger vessels plying the navigations generally only occupy the berths to embark and disembark passengers and rarely remain on the berths for extended periods or overnight.

Lock Lead-in Jetties

Lead-in jetties adjacent to the upstream and downstream gates at lock chambers are solely for the purpose of craft waiting to use the lock and should not be used for long term berthing.

Vessel Wake

Vessel wake, that is, the wave generated by the passage of the boat through the water, can sometimes be large, powerful and destructive depending on the hull shape and engine power of the vessel. This wake can be detrimental to other users of the navigation when it strikes their craft or inundates the shoreline or riverbank. Masters are requested to frequently look behind and check the effect of their wake / wash particularly when passing moored vessels, on entering harbours and approaching jetties and to be aware of people pursuing other activities such as fishing on the riverbank.

Speed Restriction

A vessel or boat shall not be navigated on the Shannon Navigation at a speed in excess of 5 kph when within 200 metres of a bridge, quay, jetty or wharf, when in a harbour or canal or when passing within 100 metres of a moored vessel or boat.

Vessels navigating the Shannon-Erne Waterway should observe the general 5 kph speed limit which applies along the waterway. This is necessary in order to prevent damage to the banks caused by excessive wash from vessels.

Vessels navigating the Erne System should observe the statutory 5kt / 6mph / 10kph speed limit areas.

A craft on the Royal and Grand canals shall not be navigated at a speed in excess of 6km per hour.

A craft on the Barrow Navigation shall not be navigated at a speed in excess of 11km per hour except as necessary for safe navigation in conditions of fast flow.

Bank Erosion

Narrow sections of all the navigations are particularly prone to bank erosion due to the large wash generated by some craft. Masters are requested to be vigilant and to slow down to a speed sufficient to maintain steerage when they observe the wash of their craft inundating the river banks.

Unusual Waterborne Activity

Unusual waterborne vessels may be encountered from time to time, such as, hovercraft or amphibious aircraft / seaplanes. Masters of such craft are reminded to apply the normal “Rule of the Road” when they meet conventional craft on the water and to allow extra room to manoeuvre in the interest of safety.

Sailing Activity

Mariners will encounter large numbers of sailing dinghies from late June to August in the vicinity of Lough Derg, Lough Ree and Lower Lough Erne. Sailing courses are marked by yellow buoys to suit weather conditions on the day. Vessels should proceed at slow speed and with due caution and observe the rules of navigation when passing these fleets, as many of the participants are junior sailors under training.

Rowing

Mariners should expect to meet canoes and vessels under oars on any part of the navigations, but more so in the vicinity of Athlone, Carrick-on-Shannon, Coleraine, Enniskillen and Limerick. Masters are reminded to proceed at slow speed and especially to reduce their wash to a minimum when passing these craft as they can be easily upset and swamped due to their very low freeboard and always be prepared to give way in any given traffic situation.

Canoeing

Canoeing is an adventure sport and participants are strongly recommended to seek the advice of the sport’s governing bodies i.e Canoeing Ireland and the Canoe Association of Northern Ireland, before venturing onto the navigations.

Persons in charge of canoes are reminded of the inherent danger to these craft associated with operating close to weirs, sluice gates, locks and other infrastructure particularly when rivers are in flood and large volumes of water are moving through the navigations due to general flood conditions or very heavy localised precipitation e.g. turbulent and broken water, stopper waves. Shooting weirs is prohibited without prior permission of Waterways Ireland.

Canoeists should check with lockkeepers prior entering a lock to ensure passage is done in a safe manner. Portage is required at all unmanned locks.

Canoe Trail Network – "Blueways"

Masters of powered craft are reminded that a canoe trail network is being developed across all navigations and to expect more organised canoeing along these trails necessitating slow speed and minimum wash when encountering canoeists, rowing boats etc

Rockingham and Drummans Island Canals – Lough Key

It is expected that work on Rockingham and Drummans Island Canals on Lough Key will be completed in 2021. Access to these canals will be for non-powered craft only, eg canoes, kayaks, rowing boats.

Fast Powerboats and Personal Watercraft (Jet Skis)

Masters of Fast Powerboats (speed greater than 17kts) and Personal Watercraft (i.e.Jet Skis) are reminded of the inherent dangers associated with high speed on the water and especially in the confines of small bays and narrow sections of the navigations. Keeping a proper look-out, making early alterations to course and /or reducing speed will avoid conflict with slower vessels using the navigation. Personal Watercraft are not permitted to be used on the canals.

Towing Waterskiers, Wakeboarders, Doughnuts etc

Masters of vessels engaged in any of these activities are reminded of the manoeuvring constraints imposed upon their vessel by the tow and of the added responsibilities that they have to the person(s) being towed. These activities should be conducted in areas which are clear of conflicting traffic. It is highly recommended that a person additional to the master be carried to act as a “look-out” to keep the tow under observation at all times.

Prohibition on Swimming

Swimming in the navigable channel, particularly at bridges, is dangerous and is prohibited due to the risk of being run over by a vessel underway in the navigation.

Age Restrictions on operating of powered craft

In the Republic of Ireland, Statutory Instrument 921 of 2005 provides the legal requirements regarding the minimum age for operating of powered craft. The Statutory Instrument contains the following requirements:

- The master or owner of a personal watercraft or a fast power craft shall take all reasonable steps to ensure that a person who has not attained the age of 16 years does not operate or control the craft

- The master or owner of a pleasure craft powered by an engine with a rating of more than 5 horse power or 3.7 kilowatts shall take all reasonable steps to ensure that a person who has not attained the age of 12 years does not operate or control the craft.

Lifejackets and Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs)

Lifejackets and PFD’s are the single most important items of personal protective equipment to be used on a vessel and should be worn especially when the vessel is being manoeuvred such as entering / departing a lock, anchoring, coming alongside or departing a jetty or quayside.

In the Republic of Ireland, Statutory Instrument 921 of 2005 provides the legal requirements regarding the wearing of Personal Flotation Devices. The Statutory Instrument contains the following requirements:

- The master or owner of a pleasure craft (other than a personal watercraft) shall ensure, that there are, at all times on board the craft, sufficient suitable personal flotation devices for each person on board.

- A person on a pleasure craft (other than a personal watercraft) of less than 7 metres length overall shall wear a suitable personal flotation device while on board an open craft or while on the deck of decked craft, other than when the craft is made fast to the shore or at anchor.

- The master or owner of a pleasure craft (other than a personal watercraft) shall take all reasonable steps to ensure that a person who has not attained the age of 16 years complies with paragraph above.

- The master or owner of a pleasure craft (other than a personal watercraft), shall take all reasonable steps to ensure that a person who has not attained the age of 16 years wears a suitable personal flotation device while on board an open craft or while on the deck of a decked craft other than when it is made fast to the shore or at anchor.

- The master or owner of a pleasure craft (other than a personal watercraft) shall take all reasonable steps to ensure that a person wears a suitable personal flotation device, at all times while – (a) being towed by the craft, (b) on board a vessel or object of any kind which is being towed by the craft.

Further information is available at: http://www.irishstatutebook.ie/eli/2005/si/921/made/en/print

Firing Range Danger Area – Lough Ree

The attention of mariners is drawn to the Irish Defence Forces Firing Range situated in the vicinity of buoys No’s 2 and 3, on Lough Ree on the Shannon Navigation. This range is used regularly for live firing exercises, throughout the year, all boats and vessels should stay clear of the area marked with yellow buoys showing a yellow "X" topmark and displaying the word "Danger".

Shannon Navigation, Portumna Swing Bridge Tolls

No attempt should be made by Masters’ of vessels to pay the bridge toll while making way through the bridge opening. Payment will only be taken by the Collector from Masters when they are secured alongside the jetties north and south of the bridge.

Navigating from Killaloe to Limerick on the Shannon Navigation

The navigation from Killaloe to Limerick involves passage through Ardnacrusha locks, the associated headrace and tailrace and the Abbey River into Limerick City. Careful passage planning is required to undertake this voyage. Considerations include: lock passage at Ardnacrusha, water flow in the navigation, airdraft under bridges on Abbey River in Limerick, state of tide in Limerick

Users are advised to contact the ESB Ardnacrusha hydroelectric power station (00353 (0)87 9970131) 48 hours in advance of commencing their journey to book passage through the locks at Ardnacrusha. It is NOT advised to undertake a voyage if more than one turbine is operating (20MW), due to the increased velocity of flow in the navigation channel, which can be dangerous. To ascertain automatically in real time how many turbines are running, users can phone +353 (0)87 6477229.

For safety reasons the ESB has advised that only powered craft with a capacity in excess of 5 knots are allowed to enter Ardnacrusha Headrace and Tailrace Canals.

Passage through Sarsfield Lock should be booked on +353-87-7972998, on the day prior to travel and it should be noted also that transit is not possible two hours either side of low water.

A Hydrographic survey in 2020 of the navigation channel revealed that the approach from Shannon Bridge to Sarsfield Lock and the Dock area has silted up. Masters of vessels and water users are advised to navigate to the Lock from Shannon bridge on a rising tide one or two hours before High Tide.

Lower Bann Navigation

The attention of all users is drawn to the “Users Code for the Lower Bann”, in particular to that section covering “Flow in the River” outlining the dangers for users both on the banks and in the navigation, associated with high flow rates when the river is in spate. Canoeists should consult and carry a copy of the “Lower Bann Canoe Trail” guide issued by the Canoe Association of Northern Ireland. Users should also contact the DfI Rivers Coleraine, who is responsible for regulating the flow rates on the river, for advisory information on the flow rates to be expected on any given day.

DfI Rivers Coleraine. Tel: 0044 28 7034 2357 Email: [email protected]

Lower Bann Navigation – Newferry – No wake zone

A No Wake Zone exists on the Lower Bann Navigation at Newferry. Masters of vessels are requested to proceed at a slow speed and create no wake while passing the jetties and slipways at Newferry.

Overhead Power Lines (OHPL) and Air draft

All Masters must be aware of the dangers associated with overhead power lines, in particular sailing vessels and workboats with cranes or large air drafts. Voyage planning is a necessity in order to identify the location of overhead lines crossing the navigation.

Overhead power line heights on the River Shannon are maintained at 12.6metres (40 feet) from Normal Summer level for that section of navigation, masters of vessels with a large air draft should proceed with caution and make additional allowances when water levels are high.

If a vessel or its equipment comes into contact with an OHPL the operator should NOT attempt to move the vessel or equipment. The conductor may still be alive or re-energise automatically. Maintain a safe distance and prevent third parties from approaching due to risk of arcing. Contact the emergency services for assistance.

Anglers are also reminded that a minimum ground distance of 30 metres should be maintained from overhead power lines when using a rod and line.

Submarine Cables and Pipes

Masters of vessels are reminded not to anchor their vessels in the vicinity of submarine cables or pipes in case they foul their anchor or damage the cables or pipes. Look to the river banks for signage indicating their presence.

Water Levels - Precautions

Low Water Levels:

When water levels fall below normal summer levels masters should be aware of:

Navigation

To reduce the risk of grounding masters should navigate on or near the centreline of the channel, avoid short cutting in dog-legged channels and navigating too close to navigation markers.

Proceeding at a slow speed will also reduce “squat” effect i.e. where the vessel tends to sit lower in the water as a consequence of higher speed.

Slipways

Reduced slipway length available under the water surface and the possibility of launching trailers dropping off the end of the concrete apron.

More slipway surface susceptible to weed growth requiring care while engaged in launching boats, from slipping and sliding on the slope. Note also that launching vehicles may not be able to get sufficient traction on the slipway once the craft is launched to get up the incline.

Bank Erosion

Very dry riverbanks are more susceptible to erosion from vessel wash.

Lock Share

Maximising on the number of vessels in a lock will ensure that the total volume of water moving downstream is decreased. Lock cycles should be used for vessels travelling each way.

High Water Levels:

When water levels rise above normal summer level masters should be aware of:

Navigation

Navigation marks will have reduced height above the water level or may disappear underwater altogether making the navigable channel difficult to discern.

In narrow sections of the navigations water levels will tend to rise more quickly than in main streams and air draft at bridges will likewise be reduced.

There will also be increased flow rates particularly in the vicinity of navigation infrastructure such as bridges, weirs, locks etc where extra care in manoeuvring vessels will be required.

Harbours and Jetties

Due care is required in harbours and at slipways when levels are at or near the same level as the harbour walkways' as the edge will be difficult to discern especially in reduced light conditions. It is advised that Personal Flotation Devices be worn if tending to craft in a harbour in these conditions.

Slipways

Slipways should only be used for the purpose of launching and recovering of water craft or other objects from the water. Before using a slipway it should be examined to ensure that the surface has sufficient traction/grip for the intended purpose such as launching a craft from a trailer using a vehicle, that there is sufficient depth of water on the slipway to float the craft off the trailer before the concrete apron ends and that the wheels of the trailer do not drop off the edge of the slipway. That life-saving appliances are available in the vicinity, that the vehicle is roadworthy and capable of coping with the weight of the trailer and boat on the incline. It is recommended that slipway operations are conducted by two persons.

Caution to be Used in Reliance upon Aids to Navigation

The aids to navigation depicted on the navigation guides comprise a system of fixed and floating aids to navigation. Prudent mariners will not rely solely on any single aid to navigation, particularly a floating aid to navigation. With respect to buoys, the buoy symbol is used to indicate the approximate position of the buoy body and the ground tackle which secures it to the lake or river bed. The approximate position is used because of the practical limitations in positioning and maintaining buoys in precise geographical locations. These limitations include, but are not limited to, prevailing atmospheric and lake/river conditions, the slope of and the material making up the lake/river bed, the fact that the buoys are moored to varying lengths of chain, and the fact that the buoy body and/or ground tackle positions are not under continuous surveillance. Due to the forces of nature, the position of the buoy body can be expected to shift inside and outside the charted symbol.

Buoys and perches are also moved out of position or pulled over by those mariners who use them to moor up to instead of anchoring. To this end, mariners should always monitor their passage by relating buoy/perch positions with the published navigation guide. Furthermore, a vessel attempting to pass close by always risks collision with a yawing buoy or with the obstruction that the buoy or beacon/perch marks.

Masters of Vessels are requested to use the most up to date Navigation guides when navigating on the Inland Waterways.

Information taken from Special Marine Notice No 1 of 2023