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The Junior Club - Saturday Sailing at the Irish National Sailing & Powerboat School is back on Saturday, the 4th of February, for children aged 7-17 years.

The programme runs over nine Saturdays up to the Easter break, with participants choosing from either the morning 10 am-1 pm slot or the afternoon 2-5 pm slot.

The team are looking forward to welcoming back sailors who were participating before Christmas, as well as sailors from their Summer courses who want to get back into the sport ahead of this year’s school holidays. They’re also delighted to say that they have a specific programme for new sailors, tailored to those who have not sailed before, or have not sailed in a while, within each age grouping; 7-10 years, 11-14 years and 15-17 years.

Some of the team outline what they’ve got planned for each of their groups.

7-10 Years Age Group – Lead Instructor Cian Fay

Cian reflects on the last term, where the students developed their sailing skills from theory to practical application.

“They started the term off by concentrating and perfecting the basics, quickly moving on to upwind downwind, follow the leader and speed control drills. They also spent time doing shallow triangle courses and triangular courses, as well as manoeuvres such as coming alongside which was a new and exciting experience and to prepare them with skills that will be necessary as they move on to the older age groups.

This coming term, we’ll reinforce the basics, improve ropework and develop the students' understanding of theory. The students are particularly excited to try new manoeuvres and further their sailing abilities in the upcoming term.”

The 7-10 years Sailing Group of the INSS Junior Club in Dun Laoghaire HarbourThe 7-10 years Sailing Group of the INSS Junior Club in Dun Laoghaire Harbour

11-14 Years Age Group – Lead Instructor Dairine McCabe

This term’s focus is to keep participants’ skill levels up while introducing them to new boats like the RS Zest and RS Feva. There’s also plenty planned for this group on the school’s new J80 keelboat fleet.

“The Junior Club last year was overflowing with joy and learning. We were delighted to have such attentive, enthusiastic students with us endeavouring to develop their skills and understanding. We held special events for both Halloween and Christmas last year and we hope to create something just as special for St. Patrick’s Day this year. We’ve planned lots of sailing time and practice of manoeuvres in our fleet of dinghies, and applications of the rope work we teach. On top of this, we tailor each session to the group themselves and what they would like to do, or what they need to get signed off in their logbooks. This creates a personal learning environment for our students that I have found most effective. We can’t wait to get started!”

The 11-14 years Sailing Group of the INSS Junior Club in Dun Laoghaire HarbourThe 11-14 years Sailing Group of the INSS Junior Club in Dun Laoghaire Harbour 

15-17 Years Age Group – Lead Instructor Ben Duffy

“We started off the Autumn Term by getting students comfortable on the water which allowed us to progress quickly to double-handers dinghies such as RS Quests and RS Fevas. Towards the end of the October term, all 15-17 years students were introduced to racing where we held an award ceremony for the winners of the event.

We’ll continue with this progression and continue racing at a high standard. Students will find themselves being introduced to slightly more complicated tactics for race starts and implementing spinnakers to make the racing a bit more realistic!”

The 15-17 years Sailing Group of the INSS Junior Club on a keelboat at Dun Laoghaire HarbourThe 15-17 years Sailing Group of the INSS Junior Club on a keelboat at Dun Laoghaire Harbour

Junior Club – Senior Instructor Zoe Noonan

“Last year's successful Junior Club saw sailors participating in a wide range of activities, including; dinghy and keelboat sailing, yacht sailing around the bay on one of our 36-foot cruising yachts, Lula Belle, as well as the odd kayaking session in weeks of bad weather.

Zoe also reminds all students to bring their logbooks and keep them up to date, so that the school’s instructors can determine what everyone needs to work on and will be looking out for talented sailors for the school Assistant Instructor Programme in the 15-17 years age group.

Programme Information

The Junior Club term runs from Saturday the 4th of February to Saturday the 1st April (Easter break). Sailors can choose from two times of attendance, 10 am-1 pm or 2-5 pm.

  • February: 4th, 11th, 18th, 25th
  • March: 4th, 11th, 18th, 25th 
  • April: 1st

The fees for this term are €270, including wetsuits and boats.

More Information can be found here

Published in INSS

Normality resumed at the Irish National Sailing & Powerboat School at Dun Laoghaire Harbour with attendance on courses and programmes exceeding 7,500. The pandemic constraints now lifted the focus for the school team was to get the show back on the road and firing on all cylinders.

Coinciding with the full return of activities, School Principal Kenny Rumball was back in Ireland after several years on the Figaro circuit in France and first item on the agenda was boosting capacity across school activities as well as developing RS Sailing and marine projects generally between INSS and sister organisation MarineServices.ie.

Children’s Courses

The school successfully ran a variety of children’s courses, including week-long Summer Courses, Mid-Term programmes and Saturday Sailing during the school term. The Summer programme attendances exceeded 3,000 across 12 weeks, with nearly 300 participants on Saturday sailing courses throughout the school term. Nearly 1,200 school students got afloat as part of the INSS weekday school programmes at primary and second level.

Instructor Programme

Twenty-two new dinghy instructors qualified at Easter. The Dinghy Instructor Training Programme saw a 100% pass rate for another year in a row and the team are looking forward to welcoming a similar success at Easter in 2023.

Adult Courses

Normality resumed for the majority of programmes, and the school was delighted to report approximately 1,000 adult trainees through the doors on beginner keelboat, dinghy and yacht courses. The shore based schedule of Navigation, VHF, Sea Survival and First Aid training was slower to recommence, however, with approximately 500 powerboat course graduates trained, fears that the pandemic driven increase in getting afloat was to be short lived have been dispelled.

School support for the Irish National Sailing Club activities continued in 2022, with the club experiencing a record year of attendance thanks to the hard work of volunteers, committee and school staff.

Women at the Helm – INSS and MarineServices.ie Team up to get RS21 sailing

A combined team of school instructors and MarineServices.ie crew got the new RS21 afloat for the Women at the Helm Regatta hosted by the National Yacht Club in August. For a number of the school instructors this was their first ever regatta. A school 1720 was also entered and in all 17 team members participated across a number of boats. Credit for making this happen goes to RS Sailing lead Heather Wright, who’s carrying on her mentoring and encouragement of young sailors from her time as school senior instructor in her new RS Sailing Role. The event also saw the RS21s first Irish sail.

A combined team of school instructors and MarineServices.ie crew got the new RS21 afloat for the Women at the Helm RegattaA combined team of school instructors and MarineServices.ie crew got the new RS21 afloat for the Women at the Helm Regatta

RS Feva Racing Programme

The school were delighted to see five crews from their Junior Club programme racing in the RS Feva Easterns hosted by the National Yacht Club in September. This was the culmination of a Summer long programme of race coaching delivered by Ronan Mooney and supported by Heather Wright. The aims included getting youngsters who’d never taken part in a race event before to the point where they were comfortable and confident on a start line. The school team couldn’t have been prouder of the crew:

11th Overall: John Healy& Daniel Burns
12th Overall: Finn Byrne & Joe Gaffney
19th Overall: Kealan Reilly & Oisin O'Reilly
20th Overall: Orla Casey & Carla Williamson
21st Overall: Theo Homan & Manus O Baoighill

Crews from the Junior Club programme raced in the RS Feva EasternsCrews from the Junior Club programme raced in the RS Feva Easterns

MarineServices.ie Super Series

RS Sailing dealer MarineServices.ie was supported by the school in delivered three mornings of racing for RS Aeros, RS200s, RS400s, RS Fevas and Waszps in Dun Laoghaire harbour between October and December. The Super Series is slated to return in the new year and the school will once again be providing the full support to deliver this sprint style racing. Noel Butler took home the first place Aero prize and the 2023 series will be used to kick start the schools RS Feva racing programme.

Round Ireland Race – Under 25 Instructors compete in Figaro 3

Four team members from the school, all aged under 25 who took part in the 2022 Round Ireland Yacht Race. Lorcan Tighe, Andrew Irvin, Ronan Mooney and Cian Crowe, reached out to the Offshore Racing Academy, run by School Principal Kenny Rumball who helped them charter a Figaro 3 from the academy in France. The team completed the course in 5 days, 14 hours, 3 minutes and 40 seconds. There’s immense pride throughout the school in this achievement.

The U25 Team raced in the Round Ireland race in a Figaro 3 Photo: AfloatThe U25 Team raced in the Round Ireland race in a Figaro 3 Photo: Afloat

Equipment Improvements

The school fleet continued to be upgraded and renewed in 2023. Several new safety boats, 6 RS Zests and a RS Quest were added to the dinghy/children’s line up. The school also took delivery of a new 7.5m Vanguard RIB, Buzz, which will be powered by a 200hp Selva Marine outboard. Buzz goes into final build this January with bookings already for the school’s range of tourism services starting this Summer.

The INSS took delivery of a new 7.5m Vanguard RIB, BuzzThe INSS took delivery of a new 7.5m Vanguard RIB, Buzz

Looking ahead to 2023

The school recently announced a major expansion to their keelboat fleet. Alongside that there’s a very full schedule of training courses for children and adults in the works. Kenny Rumball sums up his feelings for 2023 “Next year is going to be even bigger!! Hold on for the ride!!”

Check out the Irish National Sailing & Powerboat School’s 2022 Year in Review video below

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The Irish National Sailing & Powerboat School is preparing for the arrival of eight J80 keelboats in January, growing capacity for training, group events and competition.

After carefully reviewing the requirements for the next phase of sail training, the team choose the J80 to accommodate 4 to 5 students with an instructor with the small cabin adding extra options not currently available to the school on the 1720s.

The fleet is replacing the school’s six-boat 1720 training fleet. Operations Manager Glyn Williams explains, “This significant investment in the future of our sail training fleet is designed to meet the increased demand for adult beginner and improver sailing that has been sustained since the pandemic. We’re excited to be able to accommodate even more students in 2023, but importantly expand our charter, racing and group events”.

The school is planning an expanded beginner training schedule, as well as new coastal sailing courses, race training courses and more cruising pathway programmes.

School principal Kenny Rumball explains that training is not the new fleet’s only focus “each boat will be maintained in a totally one-design format, allowing for race event charter as well as to act as a support fleet for the Irish Sailing League. It’s an exciting moment for the school and these boats will play their part in growing sailing participation”. Kenny Rumball is also keen to point out that this creates opportunities with six 1720s available on the market.

Upgrading the Fleet

The J80s replace the school’s six 1720 keelboats which are now available for sale. The school is particularly keen to support the growing U25 representation in the sport. Here’s a race-ready, well-maintained package that’s ideal for a U25 team. Each 1720 has it’s own road trailer and school Principal Kenny Rumball is delighted to offer a discounted sail package to U25 teams as part of his new partnership with UK Sailmakers Ireland.

The school’s maintenance team spent the week before Christmas getting all six boats winterised and ready on their trailers. They’re all available for viewing in the school’s Dun Laoghaire yard.

The school’s six 1720 keelboats are for saleThe school’s six 1720 keelboats are for sale

One Design Fleet

A key feature of the fleet is that they’ve all been operated together from new and are truly one design. This will continue in school service, with school maintenance lead Lorcan Tighe having developed an operating schedule that will see every detail from part renewal and line replacements to length of time afloat being evenly matched across each boat. The fleet will shortly be equipped with new sets of UK Sailmakers' sails.

The one design focus will allow for new services such as fleet charter for one design events as well as to expand the school’s group and corporate event programmes.

They’ll also serve as a support fleet to the recently launched Irish Sailing League with competitions beginning in the new year. The whole fleet has road trailers and can be moved to any point in the country in conjunction with the MarineServices.ie team.

Getting Afloat

The boats are currently being prepared for their journey to Ireland. The first boats of the fleet land in the middle of January and all are expected to be in by the end of the month.

Training programmes for beginners start in March and the team in Dun Laoghaire will be using the month of February to familiarise with their new fleet.

The new INSS J80 fleetThe new INSS J80 fleet

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Competition fever has hit the Irish National Sailing and Powerboat School over the last four weeks with so many chances to win big prizes on their Instagram page (@insssailing).

The four-week Christmas giveaway campaign was also a great opportunity for the school to collaborate with other businesses in the sector and in the area, including CH Marine, Pure Magic Kitesurfing, Fad Saoil Saunas and the newly released campaign with McWilliam Bags.

Meet some of the winners so far

Winner of the first week’s competition, Tunde Sipos, was delighted with her early Christmas gifts of a Dinghy Level 1 course with the Irish National Sailing and Powerboat School and 2 Kitesurfing lessons with Pure Magic Kitesurfing.

Week 2 winner, Sarah Hutch, was over the moon to hear that she had won a Keelboat Level 1 course with the Irish National Sailing & Powerboat School and a Group Sauna voucher with Fad Saoil Saunas in Greystones and Salthill – something to look forward to in the New Year!

Irish National Sailing & Powerboat School and a Group Sauna voucher

There’s still time to take part

Week 3 and 4 competitions are still open until the 30th of December. It’s easy to enter – head over to the school’s Instagram page (@insssailing) and don’t miss your chance to win a Level 1 Powerboat Course and a CH Marine voucher worth €169 (Week 3), or a Summer week-long Children’s Sailing Course and 3 personalised McWilliam Bags (Week 4). Best of luck!

Irish National Sailing & Powerboat School and a Group Sauna voucher

Gift Vouchers

There’s still plenty of time to get a unique present – the gift of sailing or powerboating. There’s something for everyone, with shore-based courses for adults, beginner dinghy and keelboat courses and plenty for kids. Gift Vouchers here

 

Published in INSS

Race officer Kenny Rumball was jealous last Saturday morning as he laid the anchor of the committee boat in Dun Laoghaire Harbour for the final races of the Super Series that had been run through the Autumn. Why was he jealous? There was lovely crisp, clean North Easterly wind coming in over the East Pier! Perfect sailing conditions for the harbour and with the wind slightly higher than forecast, the ideal conditions for Waszp foiling… Bliss!

After dispatching one of the committee boat crew to the East Pier for hot chocolates to keep the mark layers and committee boat crew warm, the hardy RS Aero, Feva and Waszp sailors arrived on scene eager to start racing and get ashore for homemade mince pies in the clubhouse after sailing!

With the wind being from the North East, meaning there were not huge wind shifts, the sailors enjoyed some cracking sailing. Most of the Aero fleet were sailing on the smaller 6 rig which has proven to be hugely popular for the entire fleet across all genders and weight ranges. Thomas Chaix the head coach from the National Yacht Club took to the water in an Aero 7. Judging by the grin on his face, he was thrilled with the performance of the boat. He quickly got a handle on the boat, taking line honours in a few of the races.

With five races sailed, sailors quickly returned ashore for prizegiving in the Irish National Sailing & Powerboat School and Irish National Sailing Club’s home on the West Pier. Mince pies, and gourmet sandwiches from Kenny’s Café in conjunction with the Wooden Spoon fed the appetites of the hungry sailors.

Noel Butler took the overall win in the AerosNoel Butler took the overall win in the Aeros

Frank O’Rourke took the overall in the Waszp ClassFrank O’Rourke took the overall in the Waszp Class

Joe & Finn from the Irish National Sailing Club took the win in the RS FevasJoe & Finn from the Irish National Sailing Club took the win in the RS Fevas

RS and Waszp INSS Super SeriesRS and Waszp INSS Super Series results

There will be a small break for Christmas but look out for more Super Series racing in 2023!

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The Irish National Sailing & Powerboat School at Dun Laoghaire have announced one final chance to get your sea survival training completed before the end of the year. Kenny Rumball will be delivering a course on Wednesday 14th and Thursday 15th of December in advance of a busy 2023 offshore racing season, including an expanded ISORA calendar and the Fastnet Race.

The course takes place at the Irish National Sailing & Powerboat School’s Dun Laoghaire West Pier clubhouse, with practical components running in the Monkstown Blue Pool. Course times are 9 am-5 pm each day, and included in the training are the components to qualify for the World Sailing Offshore Personal Safety Certificate. This would cover successful attendees for Categories 0, 1 and some Category 2 offshore races. It also meets the requirements for commercial endorsement for power and sail operators.

Kenny Rumball of the Irish National Sailing & Powerboat School at Dun LaoghaireKenny Rumball of the Irish National Sailing & Powerboat School at Dun Laoghaire

Kenny Rumball shares plans for 2023, “We’re about to publish an expanded programme of shore-based training and courses suitable for commercial operators. This is to build upon the return of our full range of advanced training courses this year that had been curtailed by the pandemic. It’s great to see the increased number of those interested in entering the marine industry, and we’ll play our part in supporting this”.

The school are shortly publishing dates for a wide range of Navigation and Theory courses, intermediate powerboat, advanced powerboat and Yachtmaster programmes.

For now, those interested in getting a pre-Christmas boating safety workout can join the Sea Survival Course on Wednesday, 14th and Thursday, 15th of December here.

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Saturday morning’s Irish National Sailing Club's Super Series attracted four RS Aeros (three 6s and a 7) and had five tight two-lap windward-leeward races writes Noel Butler.

Conditions were gusty and shifty, with everything from 10-20 kts in a very mild, almost warm southerly. Race Officer Kenny Rumball and his team of Heather Wright and INSS staff did a great job of putting the weather mark right on the median wind direction and running the races off sharply, minimising any waiting, even starting the Aeros while the other fleets were still racing.

The Super Series is unique to other racing offered in the bay as, unlike in the winter DMYC frostbites and DBSC summer series, the Aeros have their own start, as races are short and run as a sprint style this is a perfect opportunity for training for the larger national and regional events.

This Saturday saw the addition of three Fevas from the Irish National Sailing Schools Feva development squad, as the super series has the ability to run form both inside and outside the harbour depending on conditions it allows for an extremely safe environment for the young sailors, Coach Roann Mooney joined in a rib as a safety boat while also providing some coaching between races. The Short sprint style racing is such an amazing opportunity to gain vital experience in racing and developing skills first hand in a safe, fun and friendly environment while also providing a competitive element.

After plenty of thrills and spills, we adjourned back to the INSS terrace café for a hot drink and delicious gourmet sandwiches/wraps and some de-brief and gentle slagging, comparing capsizes and such!

Apart from the racing, this really was excellent training on par with the afternoon session in Howth the Friday before the Easterns. In my view, this sort of racing is the quickest way up the learning curve for anyone keen to make progress. For anyone who wants to get some intense Aero racing in a safe and friendly environment, the next race day is on Saturday, December 3rd, first start 10am.

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The Halloween Sailing course took place this week at the Irish National Sailing & Powerboat School.

Great pirate fun was had by Sea Explorers, aged 4 to 6, from venturing along the seashore towards Seapoint to trying out their sea legs on the "pirate ship" in the harbour, while the weather was favourable!

Sea Explorers, aged 4 to 6, enjoy time afloat at Halloween Week at Irish National Sailing & Powerboat School Photo: INSSSea Explorers, aged 4 to 6, enjoy time afloat at Halloween Week at Irish National Sailing & Powerboat School Photo: INSS

Sea Explorers, aged 4 to 6, enjoy time afloat at Halloween Week at Irish National Sailing & Powerboat School Photo: INSSSea Explorers, aged 4 to 6, enjoy time afloat at Halloween Week at Irish National Sailing & Powerboat School Photo: INSS

Meanwhile, the older age groups managed some intensive sailing in the 7-10 years age group with Optimists and the 11-14 years age group with RS Zests, RS Fevas and Toppers, weather being moderate to fair for the majority of the days, allowing for plenty of sailing experience within the safe confines of the harbour.

Squibs are prepared for some harbour sailing at the Sea Explorers at Halloween Week at Irish National Sailing & Powerboat School Photo: INSSSquibs are prepared for some harbour sailing at the Sea Explorers at Halloween Week at Irish National Sailing & Powerboat School Photo: INSS

Conditions were to worsen mid-week, but didn't stop the two older groups from venturing out onto the water for a quick paddle in their boats. Later on, that same very wet day saw for some good marine and boat theory work take place indoors in the recently renovated clubhouse. Thankfully the much-improved weather on Thursday and Friday allowed for dinghy and keelboat sailing.

The school was generally abuzz this week with the 22 trainee dinghy instructors in for the week practising in the RS Quests.

Practising in the RS Quests at the Halloween Week at Irish National Sailing & Powerboat School in Dun Laoghaire HarbourPractising in the RS Quests at the Halloween Week at Irish National Sailing & Powerboat School in Dun Laoghaire Harbour

1720

As the Juniors were heading afloat, the school’s fleet of 1720s were coming ashore and the maintenance crew got to work on the annual winter jobs.

One of the 1720s was also prepared to participate in the DBSC Turkey Shoot starting on Sunday.

RS21

School instructors onboard this 1720 will be joined next weekend by the new RS21 keelboat currently competing at the World Championships in Croatia skippered by Kenny Rumball. Demonstrations of the RS21 are available on Sunday mornings and interested sailors should contact [email protected].

Shanahan Cup School’s Team Racing Event

Between the maintenance jobs, preparations continued for the school’s RS Feva fleet in advance of the Shanahan Cup School’s Team Racing Event hosted by the Irish National Sailing & Powerboat School in conjunction with Gonzaga College next Wednesday, 9th November. 72 sailors are signed up to compete, and the event is supported by the Irish RS Sailing agent MarineServices.ie.

Now, as the school looks forward to next Saturday's Sailing Junior Club series before the Christmas break, they hope to see the Halloween campers put into practice their new and enhanced sailing and seamanship skills learnt this week.

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MarineServices.ie, the Irish agent and distributor for RS racing Sailboats, is currently en route to Biograd na Moru in Croatia for the inaugural RS21 world championships.

The RS21 One Design is a modern keelboat designed with corinthian racing at its heart – keelboat racing the RS way.

Finished and completed so you can enjoy close one-design sailing without the complex choices.

The powerful rig and distinct chines are balanced by well-mannered boat handling and an ergonomic deck layout to ensure everyone sailing has a key role to play and yet ease of use. For those passionate about our planet, the RS21 was developed with sustainability at the core of its design, not only in terms of materials but also the carbon footprint of the supply chain, a reduction in single-use plastics and efficient logistics.

The powerful rig and distinct chines are balanced by well-mannered boat handling and an ergonomic deck layout to ensure everyone sailing has a key role to play and yet ease of useThe powerful rig and distinct chines are balanced by well-mannered boat handling and an ergonomic deck layout to ensure everyone sailing has a key role to play and yet ease of use

The RS21 International Class is going from strength to strength, with fleets growing over three continents and a national and international racing calendar that is escalating each year.

The RS21 International Class is going from strength to strengthThe RS21 International Class is going from strength to strength

Corinthian sailing, epically close racing and a class built around removing the arms race, the RS21 is the future of keelboat racing and everything you’d expect from an RS racing class.

The Irish team will be skippered by Kenny Rumball, with Andy Smith, Jonny Sargent and Sean Donnelly jumping on the boat for the first time.

All top-level sailors in their own disciplines, it is the first time the four sailors will have sailed together.

The team will have a solid four days of training before the event kicks off on the 3rd of November. The team is looking forward to learning a new boat but of particular interest for all members is the nifty retractable electric motor that deploys when required from the middle of the boat for ease of departure and return to the marina!

RS21 events are specifically designed to maximise fun on and off the water for their crews. Stunning locations with an action-packed social calendar await the team this week.

RS21 logo

At a meeting earlier in the week, this recipe is due to be launched in the UK and Ireland for the 2023 season.

Exact dates to be determined and defined but July's Dun Laoghaire Regatta is certainly on the cards.

The RS 21 class puts close racing over ultimate performance. Convenient ownership over complexity. It maximizes low maintenance. Comfortable ergonomics. Value. And pure sailing enjoyment. This is the boat to bring wider availability and popularity back to keelboat racing. RS Sailing’s sustainability focus has actively influenced the design, resulting in a boat built from eco-friendly materials, with multiple environmental attributes. It marks significant progress over previous generations. The RS21 is a safe purchase and assured of success.

The One-Design RS21 has an IRC rating of 0.949.

Following on from a successful European Championships in Malcesine, Lake Garda last year, the International RS21 Class expects around 40-50 RS21’s to compete for the honour of being crowned the first RS21 World Champion. Entries are expected from Italy, France, Germany, Poland, Netherlands, the United Kingdom, Australia and the United States, as well as the home nation, Croatia.

Unfortunately, the dates of this event mean the Irish boat will miss the initial race of the DBSC Turkey Shoot Series. However, the boat will return to Ireland in time for the remainder of the series. Any interested parties should contact [email protected] for a spin on this high-performance modern one-design keelboat.

To see what all the fuss is about, be sure to follow the action on the MarineServices.ie Instagram account, www.instagram.com/MarineServices.ie

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The 22nd of October was the first date in the 3 Saturday morning Super Series run by the Irish National Sailing Club.

MarineServices.ie as the RS agents are the event sponsors. The series, unlike other racing in Dun Laoghaire Harbour, offers unique sprint-style racing that sailors would not be accustomed to in their usual fleet events.

The series brings together Waszps, RS Aeros, RS 200s/400s and RS Fevas in a short windward leeward course, with two laps for the Waszps, RS 200s/400s and Aeros and one for the RS Fevas. Thus giving the ability to get in as many races as possible and giving sailors a new challenge.

The Irish National Sailing Club’s Super Series brings together Waszps, RS Aeros, RS 200s/400s and RS Fevas in a short windward leeward courseThe Irish National Sailing Club’s Super Series brings together Waszps, RS Aeros, RS 200s/400s and RS Fevas in a short windward leeward course

The morning started with race officer Kenny Rumball attempting to lay the racecourse out of the harbour; however, strong southerly gusts forced the decision to move the course inside the harbour in the hopes for more shelter.

The first race proved particularly challenging, with strong winds from the South/Southwest coming off the land. It soon proved too much for the RS Feva sailors who were sailing in the event as part of the previously reported Irish National Sailing and Powerboat schools initiative to stem the gap between training courses and racing.

The event started in the morning with 3 RS Aeros, 3 Waszps and 3 RS Fevas, with 1 more RS Aero and 2 Waszp joining after the first race. Shortly after the first race, the weather had different plans dying off, bringing light conditions and proving a real challenge for the Waszps who struggled to get enough speed required to foil. Thankfully as the wind continued to back, it increased again to a lovely 15kts.

The Waszp fleet was enjoying the fast foiling conditionsThe Waszp fleet was enjoying the fast foiling conditions

Roy Van Mannen and Noel Butler swapped 1st, and 2nd place finishes in the Aero Fleet. Sarah Byrne was in 3rd, with Daragh Mc Donagh sailing with the bigger 9 rig in 4th.

The Waszp fleet was enjoying the fast foiling conditions, Max Goodbody was very fast, but the persistent Marty O’Leary was always hot on his heels!

The Aero fleet was primarily sporting the new 6 rig that was developed to bridge the gap between the Aero 5 and the Aero 7. A major selling factor of the Aero is how easy it is to swap in between rig sizes. Sailors who may usually have opted for the slightly larger 7 rig in lighter summer air now have the opportunity to downsize just by a meter for the stronger winter winds. This allows Aero sailors of different sizes, genders, ages and fitness all to race competitively together and have the flexibility to change between rigs within a matter of minutes.

A fantastic day and we look forward to the next two races on Saturday, 12th November, and Saturday, 3rd December. We are happy to accept more entries for the remaining dates.

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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