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Displaying items by tag: MGM Boats

This past weekend at boot Düsseldorf was a big one for Dun Laoghaire-based agents MGM Boats, with the world premiere of Jeanneau’s new DB/37 and the launch of the electric Delphia 10 Lounge — as well as the reveal of the new flagship of Prestige’s M-Line in the M8.

Following the M48, the first in the M-Line that was launched last year, the multihull M8 promises an unprecedented experience: to live in perfect harmony with the sea on smooth, serene cruises, more respectful of the environment with a reduced fuel consumption.

The M8 also aims to redefine the onboard experience with a living area of more than 270 sq m “unequalled in its category” and twin hulls ensuring natural stability and excellent seaworthiness.

The M8 is being touted as ‘a true villa on the sea’, to which this artist’s impression of the interior can testify | Credit: Prestige YachtsThe M8 is being touted as ‘a true villa on the sea’, to which this artist’s impression of the interior can testify | Credit: Prestige Yachts

“The M8, flagship of the M-Line by Prestige, represents the quintessence of our savoir-faire in terms of design, elegance, and fit and finish,” says Erwin Bamps, vice president of Prestige.

“I would like to underscore the unique character of Prestige, the only Franco-Italian yacht builder in the world, today, combining the French mastery of serial production and Italian heritage in large yacht construction.”

While remaining faithful to Prestige’s identity, the M8 features a distinctive hull, designed from the start uniquely for a motor yacht.

Living is easy onboard the M8, its creators promise | Credit: Prestige YachtsLiving is easy onboard the M8, its creators promise | Credit: Prestige Yachts

The result is a multihull that is less wide but taller than a sailing catamaran, offering unequalled surface area and dimensions, which Prestige says is never before seen in existing monohulls and multihulls on the market.

“The M8 is a true villa on the sea,” says its designer, Camillo Garroni. “The layout, living spaces, ease of movement and safety on board have been designed to optimise the experience of the owners and their family.”

Discover new horizons, get closer to nature and reconnect with yourself and others in a spacious, refined, bright environment with the M8 from Prestige. There’s more on the Prestige website — and if you’re at boot Düsseldorf this week, meet the team from MGM Boats for details.

Published in MGM Boats

The new electric-first Delphia 10 Lounge enjoyed its official launch at boot Düsseldorf on Sunday morning (22 January).

Similar to the D10 LoungeTop which was unveiled last November by the ‘mindful cruising’ brand, the Delphia 10 Lounge boasts an open cockpit with up to 12 seating positions so even more can get together for fun and relaxing times.

While the focus is on short retreats along city canals and other inland waterways, weather conditions can still change quickly — which prompted the design of a complete cockpit enclosure protect those on board from the elements.

Evening trips on the Delphia 10 Lounge can go a little further thanks to multiple accommodation options below deckEvening trips on the Delphia 10 Lounge can go a little further thanks to multiple accommodation options below deck

And down below, the spacious interior with up to four sleeping berths and a bathroom is the perfect set-up for a night onboard when the evening trip goes a little further.

In the propulsion department, once again Delphia has partnered with marine e-mobility specialists Torqueedo to equip the Delphia 10 Lounge with an 80hp Deep Blue electric motor, offering three different configurations of electric propulsion. And like the LoungeTop, it also comes with a diesel option with reduced-emission engines from Yanmar.

Express your interest in the Delphia 10 Lounge with recently appointed Irish agents MGM Boats at [email protected] — and meet them this week at boot Düsseldorf to see more the boat at Hall 1, Stand B/16.

Published in MGM Boats

Jeanneau expands its DB Yachts line with the new DB/37, which had its world premiere at boot Düsselforf on Saturday 21 January.

Benefiting from all the savoir-faire and creativity of Jeanneau, the DB/37 is available in inboard and outboard versions and features a streamlined silhouette designed by Camillo Garroni, with a distinctive personality.

This new model perfectly represents the DB Yachts line, upholding the core principles that made the DB/43 a success.

The deck plan privileges exterior space and easy movement on board, and while at anchor, side terraces can extend the cockpit toward the sea.

Faithful to the promise of the DB Yachts line, “More than you expect”, the DB/37 seduces all those adept at cruising with private living spaces and a refined interior, unique aboard a day boat.

Inviting and protective, the DB/37 is designed for you to fully benefit from the sea, to experience and share unforgettable moments. A true party boat, with an optimal interior layout, she also offers the possibility of extended stays onboard — and all of this with the stylish allure of elegant lines.

Jeanneau is display the inboard version of the new DB/37 until next Sunday 29 January in Hall 5 at Stand C19. Irish agents for Jeanneau, MGM Boats in Dun Laoghaire, will be on hand throughout the show for more details.

Published in Boot Düsseldorf

MGM Boats in Dun Laoghaire will have a full sales team at boot Düsseldorf from 21-29 January — the largest indoor boat show in the world.

Aside from their dedicated brokerage stand (E45 in Hall 5), MGM Boats will have agents on hand for all the brands they represent in Ireland, such as Prestige Motor Yachts (Hall 6), Aquador Boats (Hall 4), Delphia Yachts (Hall 1) and Lagoon Catamarans (Hall 15).

That’s not to mention the impressive Jeanneau range, from sail (Hall 16) to power (Hall 1) and day boats (Hall 5), the latter stand hosting the world premiere of the premium DB/37 on Saturday 21 January.

If you’re still on the fence about a visit, MGM Boats are making the very tempting offer of a full refund on flights and accommodation (up to €1,200) if you order a new boat from them at the show.

Get in touch with Martin Salmon (+353 87 226 3598 or [email protected]) who can also put you on the list for an introduction to MGM Boats’ full range on display.

Published in MGM Boats

Jeanneau will unveil the DB/37, the second model in its new line of premium day boats, with its world premiere at boot Düsseldorf next month.

This brand-new 37-foot model is the perfect representation of the DB Yachts line, Jeanneau says. In addition to a streamlined design, entirely open to the sea, with fine materials and polished finishes, the DB/37 reveals an unprecedented interior volume for a day boat.

Following the DB/43, the DB/37 is the result of a collaboration between and world-renowned naval architects. Boasting excellent handling, its elegant lines were drawn by Italian designer Camillo Garroni and its hull was designed by Michael Peters Yacht Design.

From day boat to party boat to cruiser, the DB/37 offers great versatility and a unique design, promising exceptional experiences on the water.

The world will get its first look up close at the DB/37 during boot Düsseldorf from 21-29 January 2023. And Irish agents for Jeanneau, MGM Boats in Dun Laoghaire, will have all the details on how to get on the buyers’ list.

Published in MGM Boats

The latest addition to Delphia’s ‘mindful cruising’ range — available in Ireland via MGM Boats in Dun Laoghaire — is the Delphia 10 LoungeTop, which will have its worldwide launch in Berlin this week.

Designed for relaxation in total comfort, the Delphia 10 LoungeTop has a refined silhouette with an “innovative” outside cover that encompasses the best aspects of open and enclosed boating.

Combined with an optimised layout and its electric-power-first spec, the Delphia 10 LoungeTop is “the ultimate partner to go mindfully cruising through the canals and along the coast”.

The rear platform’s bike storage solution makes it easy to get out and explore the landscape along your travelsThe rear platform’s bike storage solution makes it easy to get out and explore the landscape along your travels

Moving around inside and outside has never been easier thanks to the one single-level platform and open cockpit, while the deep side decks and the closing companionway create a secured environment.

Disembarking for explorations is facilitated by the side gate on starboard. In particular, the rear platform’s bike storage solution makes it easy to get out and explore the landscape along your travels.

Staying on board, two protected lounge areas in the open cockpit offer up to 12 seating places. A wet bar to prepare meals and a variable dining bench on port complete a superb environment for socialising and relaxing.

Sustainable fabrics and materials as well as choice of two woodwork and floor options for the interior guarantee a pleasant environment.

The Delphia 10 LoungeTop boats an “innovative” outside cover that encompasses the best aspects of open and enclosed boating on deckThe Delphia 10 LoungeTop boats an “innovative” outside cover that encompasses the best aspects of open and enclosed boating on deck

In the single or twin cabins, natural light comes though the large portholes reinforcing this relaxing feeling and guaranteeing bright days and optimal conditions for peace of mind.

Finally, a contemporary bathroom with walk-in shower will help you unwind after a day of adventure.

Proud of its ‘nature friendly’ reputation, Delphia teamed up with Torqeedo, a leader in e-mobility in the marine industry, to fit the Delphia 10 LoungeTop with the powerful 80hp Deep Blue electric motor, offering three different configurations of electric propulsion. It also comes with a diesel option with reduced-emission engines from Yanmar.

The worldwide launch of the latest Delphia 10 will happen at the Boat & Fun exhibition in Berlin from this Thursday 24 to Sunday 27 November. Express your interest with recently appointed Irish agents MGM Boats at [email protected].

Published in MGM Boats

For most sailors in what is Ireland’s largest and busiest pier-enclosed recreational harbour, MGM Boats of Dun Laoghaire are, first and foremost, the people who provide the essential service of one of Ireland’s largest and most versatile travel hoists. For it’s often the case that the more effective a boat is in the water, then the more awkward she is out of it. Thus when you urgently need their services to get your pride-and-joy safely onto dry land in jig time, a skilled travel hoist operator ranks somewhere above the angels in any listing of divine helpers. Their quiet competence is a balm for bothered boat owners who have suddenly become aware of what the insurance business tries to de-dramatise as “an inexplicable ingress of water”, or some other invisible but noise-evident problem.

Introducing one of Ireland’s leading international marine traders and service providers with this most basic of viewpoints may seem to be slightly off-target in profiling an expanding company which has been trying to fit the celebration of its 25th Anniversary into what – post-pandemic – has proved to be one of its busiest years ever.

But a friend in need is a friend indeed. And those who have come to know MGM through their readiness to provide an emergency boat lift in times of stress will rightly see the company in a favourable light, thereby joining the very long list of satisfied customers who – since 1997 – have been availing of MGM’s increasing range of services provided and new boats and equipment marketed, combined with their always-interesting used-boats sales list.

A Prestige 520 Flybridge brings a bit of glamour to a 50-ton Travelhoist, which has proven equally ready to lift the most rugged workboatsA Prestige 520 Flybridge brings a bit of glamour to a 50-ton Travelhoist, which has proven equally ready to lift the most rugged workboats

The experience within the company and its associated service providers is remarkable. Managing Director Gerry Salmon has been involved in boat work at every level and most areas since 1986. His brother Martin - Sales & Marketing Director - does even better, as he started as a boat-finishing carpenter and joiner in 1983, before rapidly expanding his expertise and moving up the ranks in several areas of the marine industry.

Ross O’Leary, Director of Brokerage & New Boat Sales, continues as an active sailor from the Laser level upwards, and after studying at Solent University he came to the growing MGM operation in 2000, joining a team which was soon further enhanced by the appointment of Paul Gavin as Yard Manager, an all-encompassing title which will shortly be celebrating Paul’s 20th year of involvement with the company.

Meanwhile, in Northern Ireland, John O’Kane had formed his own brokerage company in 1997. He then co-founded MGM Boats NI in 2000 with the office at Carrickfergus Marina, bringing with him the UK distributorship for Aquador Boats and active links with the south of England, which greatly assisted the establishment of the MGM Boats Hamble Point Marina office.

In fact, although MGM is at the cutting edge of new boat sales in Ireland, their solid reputation is built on long-established and firmly-based national and international relationships which have developed into dynamic friendships. They will shortly be celebrating their 20th year of working with the boat-commissioning company in the famous port of Les Sables d’Olonne on France’s Biscay Coast, where many of their French-built new boats receive their final preparation for sea-going. And a vibrant relationship with another commissioning company in Perpignan on the Mediterranean coast enjoys a similar longevity, meeting as it does the needs of MGM Boats customers whose focus afloat is totally Mediterranean-based.

THE INSIDE OF THE INSIDE TRACK

Thanks to these time-honoured working partnerships, MGM Boats are on the inside track in all aspects of the international marine industry. And while many on the periphery of the industry are currently finding problems with international supply chain delays, MGM find their special links and active working friendships very quickly smooth out any difficulties – in truth, they are on the inside of the inside track.

Thus they have become so much a part of the Dun Laoghaire waterfront scene that there are young sailors who only think of MGM as a boat company, and are blissfully unaware of the once-legendary Hollywood film company of Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer, aka MGM. But when Martin and Gerry Salmon set up MG Marine in what is now the previous Millennium, they decided to tackle this naming conundrum head-on, and they’ve been so enduringly successful that nowadays even cinema-inclined sailing buffs tend to think of boats first and Tinseltown second when the name MGM comes up on the radar.

In the firmly established mood of celebration around their 25 years in business, it is easy to forget just how difficult it can be to get a new enterprise into being on the Dun Laoghaire waterfront, let alone underpin its operation with support offices in Northern Ireland and Cork, all in turn supporting an international presence which provides ready representation in popular international boating areas, combined with regular participation in all the major boat shows.

CHALLENGES OF AN ESTABLISHED WATERFRONT

But the fact is, Dun Laoghaire Harbour is built much too well, with magnificent stonework to match. And when it was completed, its design was so complete, and totally aimed at the needs of naval use in the first half of the 19th Century, that it was a major challenge to make even the smallest modifications to its very fixed waterfront in order to accommodate accelerating changes in ship and boat technology, and general harbour use.

The MGM boatyard operation has been slotted – with some difficulty – into Dun Laoghaire’s very fixed waterfront. This was not an easy operation in a harbour where the authorities seem to think that the ideal solution to railway station car parking demands is to in-fill sheltered boat-berthing space.The MGM boatyard operation has been slotted – with some difficulty – into Dun Laoghaire’s very fixed waterfront. This was not an easy operation in a harbour where the authorities seem to think that the ideal solution to railway station car parking demands is to in-fill sheltered boat-berthing space.

So totally is Dun Laoghaire Harbour a fixed and massive monument of its time that we have heard speakers at Save Our Seafront public meetings in Dun Laoghaire refer - in all seriousness - to this completely artificial construction as “a wonderful natural feature of Dublin Bay”. When you’re faced with a mindset like this around a harbour where sea-going people have long struggled to provide anything remotely approaching the modern facilities which other waterfronts take for granted, you realise the difficulties that Martin and Gerry Salmon and their growing team faced in trying to carve out a bit of usable space for the provision of marine services which were based on contemporary commercial reality.

So massive are the majestic piers sheltering Dun Laoghaire Harbour that many people think of it as a sacred and untouchable natural feature of Dublin BaySo massive are the majestic piers sheltering Dun Laoghaire Harbour that many people think of it as a sacred and untouchable natural feature of Dublin Bay

Yet they did it, and they did it so well, with such gallant refusal to call it a day when the going got tough, that they themselves are now part of the greater Dun Laoghaire establishment, even if their boatyard and yacht sales areas are rather different from what folk from purpose-designed yacht harbours might expect in such a facility.

Despite that, it works – and it works very well. For in the final analysis, like any truly successful business MGM Boats is ultimately all about people, and the extremely slow staff turnover in MGM’s enthusiastic longtime team speaks volumes for their dedication, satisfaction and ultimately enjoyment in what they do.

“As smooth as silk” - a Jeanneau 54 sailing with effortless style. MGM Boats’ longtime links with the extensive Jeanneau performance cruising and racing ranges has been one of the cornerstones of the company’s success.“As smooth as silk” - a Jeanneau 54 sailing with effortless style. MGM Boats’ longtime links with the extensive Jeanneau performance cruising and racing ranges has been one of the cornerstones of the company’s success.

Thus it’s typical of the MGM Boats approach that they have turned what others might see as a problem into an opportunity. In order to stay up to speed with the latest developments in innovation and marketing, their yearly schedule inevitably includes full attendance at a carefully-chosen selection of the more glamorous boat shows.

SUNSHINE HOLIDAY BONUS

The bonus of this is that if a customer is moving towards a purchasing decision from among their comprehensive range of new boats, instead of trying to close the deal in the familiar but rather weather-dependent setting of Dun Laoghaire, Belfast Lough or Kinsale Harbour, they might suggest a deal-sealing visit to their stand at some boat-fest like the Cannes or Miami Boat Shows. Thus customers come to associate the boat-buying experience with a sun-filled holiday enhanced by contact with people who know their way around the venue.

Erwin Bamps, CEO of Prestige Motor Yachts Jeanneau International, wishes MGM Boats a happy birthday at their Silver Jubilee in Dun Laoghaire Erwin Bamps, CEO of Prestige Motor Yachts Jeanneau International, wishes MGM Boats a happy birthday at their Silver Jubilee in Dun Laoghaire 

After so many years in the business, the MGM team have shaped their range of dealerships and agencies with the skilled care of the connoisseur. By now, most folk in the sailing and boating community will be aware that their main lines are Jeanneau Sail, Jeanneau Power, Prestige, Lagoon Catamarans, Aquador, Zodiac, and Bombard. Additionally, if your inclination is to something very exotic indeed outside these highly regarded brands, you can be quite sure that the team will well know exactly the key person to guide you towards success in your quest.

 Paul Blanc, CEO of Jeanneau International, speaking at the MGM Boats Silver Jubilee celebrations in Dun Laoghaire with (left to right) Martin Salmon, John O’Kane and Gerry Salmon  Paul Blanc, CEO of Jeanneau International, speaking at the MGM Boats Silver Jubilee celebrations in Dun Laoghaire with (left to right) Martin Salmon, John O’Kane and Gerry Salmon 

But recently, the most exciting development in the MGM range is the addition of Delphia Yachts of Poland. Formed in 1990 and steadily expanded since, Delphia is part of the international Beneteau group, and is rapidly building a reputation for being at the sharp end of the electric-powered marine engine revolution - so much so that by 2024, every new-built Delphia motor-cruiser will rely on electric power.

It takes a while to absorb the full significance of that statement. But as you process it, a feeling of real hope develops. And those of us who have thought for years that the traditional and very effective yet not at all environmentally-friendly marine engine is an insult to the natural order will realise just what a step change the increasing prominence of Delphia Yachts signifies.

 The future is here. MGM Boats are agents for the new Delphia electric range, seen here in the Delphia 11 Sedan Electric. The future is here. MGM Boats are agents for the new Delphia electric range, seen here in the Delphia 11 Sedan Electric

Yet a revolution like this cannot happen overnight. It will take years. And meanwhile, the huge existing stock of standard sailboats and motor cruisers will need first-class servicing of every part of each boat and her equipment in order to keep their emissions to a minimum.

Thus the MGM Boatyard and Travelhoist have never been busier than they are in their 25th birthday year 2022. And they’ve experienced a fascinating cross-section of craft, for the 50-ton Travelhoist – which regularly works overtime – has found itself lifting everything from the most luxurious of yachts to hard-worked fishing boats and pilot boats and – perhaps most interesting of all – the fascinating selection of workboats dedicated to servicing the windfarms of the East Coast.

SILVER JUBILEE CELEBRATIONS

Yet in this high level workaday pattern of almost non-stop boat servicing added to regular sales staff departures for the key international boat shows, somehow they found a date when the many moving targets of the international world of boats could come to Dun Laoghaire to help MGM Boats celebrate their Silver Jubilee.

With an attendance which included people of the calibre of Jeanneau CEO Paul Blanc and Sales Director Antoine Chancelier, together with Prestige Motor Yachts CEO Erwin Bamps, it was a case of industry heavy hitters happily mingling with satisfied MGM customers. And in the midst of it, after 25 years and more together, there they were - the key MGM Boats team – the very embodiment of Thomas Lipton’s saying that, if you like your work, then work is the best fun you can have.

Published in W M Nixon
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Prestige Motor Yachts are offering yachting journalists two exclusive sea trial days aboard their first power catamaran, the Prestige M48, at Port Ginesta in Spain later this month as part of a big showcase for Group Beneteau boating brands.

It follows the power cat’s debut alongside the Prestige X60 at last month’s Cannes Yachting Festival, as previously noted on Afloat.ie.

Taller than others of its kind on the market, the M48 has a deep bridge deck linking the two hulls, promoting a similar look and feel as a monohull below deck.

The results are generous, brightly lit refined living spaces and full beam cabins, affording the ultimate in comfort.

For more on the M48, get in touch with Prestige’s Irish agents MGM Boats at [email protected].

Published in MGM Boats

The new Prestige X60 has been awarded the prize for Best Innovation of the Year 2022 at the prestigious World Yachts Trophies ceremony during the Cannes Yachting Festival.

“This award, two years after the X70 won the award for Best Layout, illustrates once again the savoir-faire of Prestige and the unique, revolutionary design of the X-LINE,” the leading motor yacht brand said.

As previously noted on Afloat.ie, the Prestige X60 has its world debut at Cannes last month and comes with a design “guided by the core concepts of voluminous living spaces, natural light and easy flow of movement onboard”. 

For more on the X60, get in touch with Prestige’s Irish agents MGM Boats at [email protected].

Published in MGM Boats

Following a successful stint in Cannes last week, MGM Boats will be on the Prestige and Jeanneau stands for the duration of the Southampton International Boat Show which kicks off this Friday 16 September.

The Dun Laoghaire-based boat sales agents will have a full sales team working the show and available to show a host of new boats from its ranges.

For the Prestige marque, that means the 420F, 460F, 520F and 590F motor yachts, alongside Jeanneau’s Sun Odyssey (380, 410, 440 and 490) and Sun Fast 3300 sail boats.

Powerboats from Jeanneau on show include the Cap Camarat (7.5 WA Série3, 9.0 WA and 10.5 WA Série2), Merry Fisher (795 Série2, 795 Sport Série2, 895, 895 Sport an1095) and NC37.

And the Lagoon Catamarans brand will be represented by the Lagoon 46 and Lagoon 42.

The MGM Boats sales team looks forward to seeing you in Southampton. For more details, get in touch with [email protected].

Published in MGM Boats
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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