#MARINE WILDLIFE - Dolphinwatch Carrigaholt, in collaboration with the Irish Whale and Dolphin Group (IWDG), is offering a special midsummer night cruise in the Shannon Estuary as a fundraiser for the IWDG.

The cruise will depart Castle Pier in Carrigaholt, Co Clare at 5pm on Saturday 30 June (weather permitting), returning around 10pm,

During the trip you will visit caves off North Kerry, sea stacks and headlands and the mighty Loop Head, including the giant sea stack known as Dermot and Grainne’s Rock (or Cuchalain’s Leap) and Black Rock with its fantastic seabird colonies.

Along the way you will also expect to see marine wildlife such as bottlenose dolphins, basking sharks - and possibly even a minke whale, if a recent coastal sighting is anything to go by.

Included in the cost is a vegetarian or seafood platter and wine onboard sponsored by The Long Dock in Carrigaholt, as well as live traditional music and a €10 voucher for fine art prints and books from Carsten Krieger Photography.

Tickets for the cruise are priced at €50 for IWDG members, €60 for non-members not wishing to take out membership and €70 for non-members including a one-year IWDG membership (normally €30).

Numbers on this adults-only cruise are limited to just 35 - so book early to avoid disappointment. To book your place call 087 9175984 or e-mail [email protected].

#SHANNON ESTUARY – This coming bank holiday weekend the Munster Mermaid Championships will take place at Foynes Yacht Club with an entry of 15 boats so far writes Gerry Ryan.

Racing will take place over two days, one race on Saturday and two on Sunday are scheduled.

Expected from the east coast are eight craft to participate in the championships, which they have been coming to this event for the last number of year's.

The Foynes Irish Coffee festival is co-inciding with the chamionships and Foynes club will have a 'Fun on the Water Day' at 4pm on Sunday afternoon and lots of events to entertain the public during the festival.

The Irish Naval patrol ship, the L.E. Orla will be berthed in the Docks, where member's of the public are invited for an inspection.

#FOYNES YC –  On Sunday last Foynes Yacht Club on the Shannon Estuary celebrated Commodore's Day, which was a very nostalgic event, because a special handsewn tapestry with the club logo, and with the words 'Foynes yacht club' and the year when the club started 1962-2012 were specially embroided by Teresa Kirwan, who received a lot of praise from all who attended on the day writes Gerry Ryan.

A course for racing was set by Officer of the Day, Alan McEneff in the harbour area for all classes, and all boats were decked out with bunting to add colour to the proceedings.

Unfortunately, the race had to be abandoned due to the lack of wind.

Nevertheless, it was a very nostalgic day, because past Commodore's received gold medals to commemorate their achievement's in the club over the last 50 years.

The former Commodore's who were presented with specially commissioned medals were Bobby Mulrooney, David Floyd, Jim Collier, Charlie McGibney, Paddy McNamara, Pat Moran, John Conway, Frank Dennison, Pat Finucane, and present Commodore Tom Murray.

Commodore Tom Murray in his opening remarks spoke about the vision and philosophy that the former Commodore's who came before him achieved in getting sailor's and member's to join this great club.

He said Foynes Yacht Club could not go on except for the member's volunteering in taking on different tasks during the year to ensure the club stood up to the test of time.

'Training for the juveniles has been to the forefront of the club for a number of year's, and this is going from strength to strength, the youht's are the backbone to every club, and it is great to see so many of them here today', added the Commodore.

In his closing remarks Commodore Murray spoke about the West of Ireland Offshore Championships, which he hoped to have 50 boats for this occasion to coincide with our golden jubilee. The championships are scheduled to take place in July.

The annual blessing of the boats was performed by Fr. Noonan, P.P., Foynes, and after this ceremony a Bar-B-Que was held on the club lawn, where chef's Donal McCormack, John-Paul Buckley, Paddy McSweeney, Bev Lowes and Alan McEneff cooked to the delights of the hungry member's and friend's. Well done to the social committee in preparing the salads to accompany the burgers.

This weekend we will be hosting to first leg of the Estuary Bell, two races are down for Saturday and one on Sunday. Class 1, 2 and White Sails will be competeing for the coveted trophy, and it is envisaged that a good number of craft will be sailing. Present weather indications are for the settled weather to continue.

#LIGHTHOUSES – Taoiseach Enda Kenny, T.D., today officially opened the new exhibition at Loop Head Lighthouse and launched the 2012 visitor season at the historic West Clare tourist attraction.

Loop Head Lighthouse, located at the mouth of the Shannon Estuary, is steeped in history and rich in maritime heritage with its origins dating back to the 1670s. The Taoiseach's grandfather was a keeper at the lighthouse. James John McGinley took up duty at the Lighthouse as Principal Keeper on 16th January 1933.  He spent 1 year and 10 months at Loop Head.  He was transferred from the station in October 1934.

Clare County Council, along with Shannon Development, Loop Head Tourism and the Commissioners of Irish Lights (CIL), conducted a successful 11-week trial opening scheme in 2011 that resulted in an estimated 17,000 people visiting the landmark building. It is estimated that the trial opening of the Lighthouse was worth approximately €400,000 to the local economy.

Earlier this year, Shannon Images was appointed to produce an interpretation plan that would further enhance the overall visitor experience at the lighthouse. An exhibition focusing on the history of Irish lighthouses and the people who have operated them since the 17th century has been installed for the 2012 tourist season. All materials and labour for the project were sourced locally.

Speaking at the opening, the Taoiseach said: "The opening of the 2012 visitor season at Loop Head Lighthouse marks a special day for tourism in Ireland and for the people of West Clare.  It's an equally special day for me and my family. Because as I made my way here today, I was acutely aware that my journey was also a family journey. A journey that began 80 years ago, when my grandfather, James McGinley, arrived here to become the Principal Keeper at Loop Head."

Speaking at today's official opening, Mayor of Clare Councillor Pat Hayes said the Taoiseach's visit to the lighthouse was testament to the contribution made by the Lighthouse to the local community and economy since the trial opening in 2011.  Mayor Hayes noted that heritage tourism could play a significant role in the revival of the domestic tourism sector.

"The collaborative approach adopted by regional development agencies and the local community to enhancing the visitor experience at Loop Head is a model that could and should be replicated elsewhere throughout County Clare and, indeed, the rest of Ireland. Heritage tourism is becoming increasingly popular throughout the world and therefore, we should consider the possibility of opening up and promoting some of other many existing heritage sites and structures that currently remain inaccessible to the public", stated Mayor Hayes.

According to Ruairi Deane, Shannon Development Tourism Product Development Executive: "Shannon Development is delighted to have worked with our partners on this unique and exciting project. The overall objective of the project partners has been to develop the Lighthouse as an anchor tourism attraction in West Clare with the potential to attract more visitors and generate additional revenue for the area, and we believe today's official opening by the Taoiseach is another major step in fulfilling this aim. The new exhibition uses a wonderful blend of multi-media to tell the story of Loop Head Lighthouse and the surrounding area."

Cillian Murphy, Chairman of Loop Head Tourism said: "The lighthouse visitor project builds on the designation of the Loop Head Peninsula as a 'European Destination of Excellence' (EDEN) by the European Commission and also links to other community projects such as the recent restoration of the World War 2 'EIRE' sign nearby. These community initiatives complement the lighthouse project and will further reinforce the Loop Head peninsula as a quality sustainable tourism destination. Tourism development on the peninsula will affect all who live here and Loop Head Tourism have shown what can be achieved by developing our tourism products in conjunction with the peninsula community and our local authorities"

Mr. Murphy expressed confidence that the Taoiseach's visit and personal connection with the Lighthouse would help to attract visitors to the area during the coming months. "Tourism operators and accommodation providers are also working closely with each other to further develop the Loop Head Peninsula's growing reputation as a tourist destination for those that wish to have a different type of Irish holiday experience and our recent appointment of a 'Tourism Animator', which is funded by a Leader grant, gives us an opportunity to take another huge step in the right direction," Mr. Murphy concluded.

The existing tower style lighthouse was constructed in 1854 and was operated and maintained by a keeper who lived within the lighthouse compound. In January 1991, the lighthouse was converted to automatic operation, and today is in the care of an attendant and is also monitored by the CIL.

Loop Head Lighthouse officially opens to the public from tomorrow (Saturday, 19 May 2012) up to 3rd September 2012, creating 12 seasonal jobs. Visit www.loophead.ie

#SHANNON SILVERSEAS - The mid-west port of Foynes is playing host to the ultra-luxurious Silver Whisper (2001/28,000grt) which docked along the Shannon Estuary this morning, writes Jehan Ashmore.

The vessel operated by Silverseas Cruises had sailed from Southampton and at least another call by another vessel is also scheduled this season. On average the Shannon Foynes Port Company handles four cruise calls each season.

One of the main visitor attractions along the Shannon is the local Foynes Flying Boat Museum, which retraces an altogether different era in transportation, yet also carried out travel in style when the B314 flying boats used the Co. Limerick terminal between1937-1945. Then the trans-Atlantic travellers spent time at the Foynes hub-terminal which also became home to the 'Irish Coffee'.

On board the 382 passenger capacity vessel she has a near equal number of crew at 302. This passenger to crew ratio is exceptionally high and reflects her status in the very top end of the cruise travel market. Silverseas have over the years won a whole string of globally recognised travel industry awards.

All accommodation on board the 186m / 610ft long vessel is based in suites cabins (available in seven grades) with each featuring a balcony of ocean views and countless destinations.

Facilities include boutique shopping; a wellness spa with beauty salon, fitness centre and sauna; full-scale productions in a multi-tiered show lounge; a casino, an internet café and Wi-Fi service. To read the full range of facilities and virtual tours click HERE.

In 2012 the Silver Whisper cruising schedules are to Brazil then to South Africa and the Indian Ocean landscapes. Beyond that she heads for the South China Sea, west to the Arabian Sea and Egypt.

During the summer she explores Europe before arriving in Canada for autumn's vibrant 'fall'. Silver Whisper's globetrotting culminates in the Caribbean with cruises through the year's end.

#FOYNES – Foynes Yacht Club on the Shannon Estuary celebrates Commodore's Day this Sunday writes Gerry Ryan.

Traditionally, it is the biggest annual social occasion when member's entertain their family and friend's with a 'fun day' at the Club and this the event is set to be extra special because Foynes is celebrating its Golden Jubilee.

Commodore Tom Murray has a host of events planned for the day to entertain the large number's of spectator's expected at Cooleen Point for an afternoon of 'fun and frolics'.

A number of fringe events will be taking place on the water, with all classes racing to compete for their respective trophies. Class 1, 2 and White Sails will be competeing for the Paddy Reidy Memorial Trophy; the Michael Synnott Memorial Trophy will be the prize for the Mermaid fleet.

To start off proceedings a briefing is organised for all craft at 2pm. Racing will then commence at 2.15pm, the courses will be decided on the day. The junior member's of the club will be racing the Topaz dinghies, which should provide an added spectacle to the afternoon.

After the racing the annual blessing of the boat's will take place on the marina by Cannon O'Keeffe and Fr. Noonan, approximately at 4pm. When this is complete a Bar-B-Que will take place in the clubhouse lawn, and live music will be provided for all to enjoy.

A presentation of specially commissioned medals will be presented by Commodore Tom Murray to former Commodore's of the Club to mark the golden jubilee of Foynes Yacht Club. Let's hope the weather will be favourable on Sunday for all to enjoy.

On Saturday, May 26 and Sunday, May 27 the first leg of the Estuary Bell will take place between the Royal Western, Kilrush and Foynes YC.

Three races are penciled in on the agenda for the weekend, and the first race on the Saturday will be at 12 noon, it is envisaged to run two races on Saturday and one on Sunday.

#FOYNES – On Saturday last the annual cruise to Limerick city took place with a flotilla of yachts leaving Foynes Yacht Club at 2pm as part of the Riverfest celebrations writes Gerry Ryan.

This is the fourth year that this particular cruise was organised, and of course as member's know, it is a very special year in the annals of Foynes Yacht Club-our golden jubilee.

On the day the weather was superb, but unfortunately, the wind was north-easterly so we had to use engine power on the journey.

At rafting up at Steamboat Quay for an hour, where they boat's were viewed by the general public, we then went into Limerick Docks for berthing for the evening.

Shannon Development hosted a reception in the Clarion Hotel at 5.30pm to distinguised guests including the Deputy Mayor of Limerick, Cllr. Diarmid Scully; Kieran Lehane, city manager; Chief Executive of Shannon Development, Dr. Vincent Cunnane; and CEO of Shannon Foynes Port Company, Pat Keating.

During the speeches, it was stressed by all of the speakers, that the River Shannon should be utilised more for public leisure. A plan is at present being put together to enable this to come to fruition in the near future.

Commodore Tom Murray, thanked the organisers of Riverfest, which he said was a fantastic success for Limerick city, and he hoped it will continue to bring in tourists and much needed revenue to the city.

After the reception member's of the yacht club went to Dolan's Restaurant for dinner, and after fireworks celebrations took place on the river Shannon, where large crowds of spectators took up vantage points to see the display.

On Sunday the flotilla left Limerick Docks for the return journey to Cooleen Point, where a Bar-B-Que was held to round of the proceedings of the weekend.

The next major event in Foynes Yacht Club will be Commodore's Day, on Sunday, May 20 with racing for all classes, starting at 2pm. The annual blessing of all craft will take place after racing on the marina. All member's are asked to come to support this very special day of the year.

#SHANNON ESTUARY – The Maritime Journal reports that a simulated fire and rescue drill simulating a fire on board a ship took place in Foynes Port this week.

Limerick County Fire & Rescue Service with the assistance of Shannon Foynes Port Company and Celtic Tugs which operates a fleet of  tugs in the port hosted the Ship and Ports Course.

A number of exercises were carried out during the course, to read more on the exercise click HERE.

#FOYNES – Next Sunday the Dublin Bay Mermaid fleet of Foynes Yacht Club will be in action on the waters of the Shannon Estuary for the 'Inaugural' golden jubillee race writes Gerry Ryan

Mermaid class captain, Darragh McCormack is hoping to have a full fleet of Mermaid's (10 in all) for the race. . A special trophy as been commissioned for the winner.

Last weekend the first cruise of the season took place down the estuary to Loughill, with a north-west wind force 3-4, it was certainly a cruise to get all skipper's and sailor's in the groove for the coming season. A total 10 craft sailed on this venture.

The cruise started at 2pm and finished at Cooleen Point at 4pm, where a Bar-B-Que in the clubhouse was organised for the hungry 'Pirates'.

Culluan Sailing Club will host its annual Spring Regatta on Sunday, April 29. This is a mixed fleet open event, and entry from travelling boat's are always welcome.

Three races are pencilled in to take place with a briefing at 12.30pm. The first race will be at 1pm with an approximate finish for all races at 5pm. A special junior race is organised on this event. The entry fee per boat is €15.

The P750 Class Association of Ireland will be holding a Powerboat Race in conjunction with Riverfest on Sunday, May 6. The race will be starting at 3pm and finishing at 6.30pm.

The P750 craft will be racing between Shannon and Sarsfield Bridge. These craft will be be travelling at approximately 40kt's, and it is requested that during this time no craft will encroach on the course and other river users are aware of this event.

46 craft have put pen to paper for WIORA, and it is envisaged that 50 craft will be taking to the water's of the Shannon Estuary for Foyne Yacht Club's golden jubilee and it hosting of the West of Ireland Offshore Racing (WIORA) Championship's from Wednesday, July 11 to Saturday, July 14 writes Gerry Ryan.

Three classes will be organised for the event IRC, Echo and White Sails. Liam Dineen has been appointed Officer-of-the-Day for the championships.

This coming Saturday, April 14 'lift-in' is scheduled to take place for all craft at Foynes Yacht Club Officially, this will be the start of the much anticipated sailing season in Cooleen Point. While the standard around the 'can's' windward-leeward course's will be laid for the IRC and Echo fleets, more varied courses for the White Sails division will be set, taking the fleet to all parts of the Estuary.

Peader McGrath, who is rib manager for WIORA week has asked for rib drivers and assistants for this week. Any member's who would have time to assist are asked to contact Peader on 087 2600817.

To kick-off the season a cruise for all craft on the estuary is organised for Saturday, April 21, this will take place in the afternoon where a Bar-B-Que will take at the clubhouse after the cruise.

Brendan Buckley and Ciara McCormack on qualifying as dinghy instructions, one of their first briefs is to develop a plan for the junior racing during the season. These two individuals have a wealth of experience in the rudiments of sailing. It augurs for the junior member's of the club, where the sailing school is going from strength to strength.

The sailing school will officially start proceedings on Monday, June 11 until the end of July (it will not operate WIORA week).

The new club polo shirts, hoodies and jackets with the new 50th anniversary logo are available in the club. These are available in an assortment of colours and sizes.