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The boating and water sports industry has given a positive verdict on the recently concluded boot Düsseldorf 2024 international boat show.

Despite facing difficult conditions such as winter weather and strikes, the event still managed to attract 214,000 visitors from 120 countries. According to the CEO & President of Messe Düsseldorf, Wolfram Diener, the event was a success and exceeded expectations.

Since the demise of the London Show, Boot Düsseldorf is now established among the Irish trade as the focal point of new boat sales business for the winter months and this year's edition appeared to deliver again.

Irish yacht broker Gerry Salmon of MGM Boats, who was elected Irish Marine Federation Chairman during the show, said, "Dusseldorf is the place to demonstrate all the latest new models we have coming for 2024 to our existing clients and an opportunity to meet new customers too". 

The trade fair saw an increase in both the proportion of trade visitors and international customers.

"We are very pleased with the outcome of the show and the pulse is definitely back in the European market", Salmon told Afloat.

The Irish Marine Federation board members at Boot Dusseldorf 2024 (from left to right) Porick Murray of Pontoons Ireland, James Kirwan of BJ Marine, Ian O'Meara of Viking Marine, newly elected chairman Gerry Salmon of MGM Boats, Paal Janson of Dun Laoghaire Marine, Damien Offer of Malahide Marina, Jonathan O'Connor Moneley of Carlingford Marina and Cronan O'Donnell of POD MarineThe Irish Marine Federation board members at Boot Dusseldorf 2024 (from left to right) Porick Murray of Pontoons Ireland, James Kirwan of BJ Marine, Ian O'Meara of Viking Marine, newly elected chairman Gerry Salmon of MGM Boats, Paal Janson of Dun Laoghaire Marine, Damien Offer of Malahide Marina, Jonathan O'Connor Moneley of Carlingford Marina and Cronan O'Donnell of POD Marine

Likewise, Wicklow broker James Kirwan of BJ Marine expressed his satisfaction with his attendance: "We have confirmed orders on both our sail and power boat ranges from Beneteau. We also have clients currently weighing up very aggressive offers for new boats with excellent availability and stronger show deals than we have seen in many years".

The event is the only water sports fair in the world that attracts people from all continents.

"Our Northman and Princess Yachts displays also had steady flows of Irish visitors, which shows an appetite for, and curiosity of, new products remains strong in Irish boaters. Boot goes from strength to strength and Irish marine businesses play a big part in the success story. We’ll be back in 2025!" Kirwan said.

The majority of visitors were interested in sailing yachts, followed by powerboat fans, divers, charterers, and surfers. Boating apparel and travel were also in high demand, with boatwear and nautical tourism proving to be popular. 

Exhibitors at the event were also pleased with the outcome. Sea Ray spokesperson Hans Roeland said, "One look at our stand says more than a thousand words! It was packed! We did excellent business and gained new customers throughout the boot 2024 trade fair. We were able to get visitors interested in our stand and conclude many deals." Hanjo Runde, CEO of HanseYachts, echoed the positive sentiment and stated that they were overwhelmed by the rush of over 10,000 visitors to their sailing and motor yachts. 

The success of boot Düsseldorf 2024 proves that the event has an excellent international standing in the industry. The trade fair provided a unique platform for networking, and visitors were extremely positive about the show program. The event ended on a high note, and the next boot Düsseldorf is scheduled to take place from 18 to 26 January 2025.

Published in Boot Düsseldorf
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This month's boot Dusseldorf will be special for French Manufacturer Dufour, who will celebrate its 60th anniversary and the World Première of the Dufour 44.

“The launch of the new Dufour 44 is very exciting and follows the very successful launch of the Dufour 41 last year. Both the 41 and 44 are amazing boats because of their performance and volume. Their modern and aggressive styling is a sign that they mean business,' says Irish agent Hugh Mockler of Crosshaven Boatyard.

"They are head turners and would certainly be easy to handle in Irish waters by a couple", Mockler says about the new marques.

boot Düsseldorf 2024 runs from 20-28 January and is one of the largest marine events in the world, with over 2,000 exhibitors across 17 halls.

Dufour will have three models on display at Boot Dusseldorf: 41, 44, and 530. Hugh Mockler will be on hand at the last weekend of the show from Friday to Sunday to show you around.

For more information, contact Hugh Mockler at Crosshaven Boatyard.

Published in Crosshaven Boatyard

Candela’s C-8 electric foiling boat has been named the European Powerboat of the Year 2023 at the European Powerboat Awards, also known as the ‘Oscars of the boat industry’.

The award presented at boot Düsseldorf last weekend recognises the C-8’s outstanding performance and innovation in the industry.

The Candela C-8 won the electric boat category thanks to its cutting-edge hydrofoil technology, which allows the boat to fly on water using only a fraction of the energy conventional boats need.

With a range of 50-plus nautical miles at 22 knots, the C-8 has two to three times the range of conventional electric boats and matches the performance of fossil fuel-powered speedboats.

Its active hydrofoil system ensures a smooth ride, while its onboard computer automatically adjusts for side winds and waves, providing a more comfortable boating experience.

The real game-changer lies in the C-8’s energy efficiency, according to its Stockholm-based manufacturer. With 80% lower energy consumption than conventional vessels and an almost non-existent wake, the C-8 causes minimal disturbance to marine life, Candela says.

In a recently announced partnership, Candela’s electric outboard engines will use batteries from electric premium car maker Polestar, which will allow the C-8 to achieve an even longer range, further pushing the boundaries of what is possible with electric boats.

“We’re committed to revolutionising the boating industry by creating electric boats that are not only more sustainable and environmentally friendly, but also outperform traditional fossil fuel-powered boats, thus accelerating the transition to sustainable boating,” says Mikael Mahlberg, Candela’s head of communications. “Winning the European Powerboat of the Year 2023 award is an important recognition for our work.”

The Candela C-8 is on display at boot Düsseldorf which closes today, Sunday 29 January. For more information visit candela.com.

Published in Boot Düsseldorf

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

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

boot Düsseldorf organisers have confirmed earlier media reports that the world biggest indoor boat show will not take place next month or indeed at any time in 2022.

Due to the spread of the omicron virus variant, further restrictions have been in place in Germany since 28 December, including on events. Following the meeting of the Minister Presidents of the federal states on the pandemic situation on 21 December 2021, North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW) banned the holding of large events with spectators in January. This also affects boot Düsseldorf, which as a supra-regional leisure fair may not take place in 2022 due to the measures decided by the state government.

NRW Health Minister Karl-Josef Laumann explains: "We have to continue to be very careful at the moment. The omicron variant is spreading in a dynamic we don't yet know. But we have to act today. That is why we had already banned large football matches and sporting events with spectators in the current Covid Protection Ordinance. It is only logical that no large public fairs with many visitors from different regions and countries from all over the world take place in January either."

North Rhine-Westphalian Ministry of Health: No large public fairs possible in January

Düsseldorf's Lord Mayor, Dr Stephan Keller, also supports the state's decision: "Of course we had hoped that the pandemic situation in January would allow the boot to be held under strict hygiene conditions. But in the end, it is only consistent to do without large public fairs such as boot in order to contain the spread of the omicron variant. Even before the country's ban, I agreed with the management of Messe Düsseldorf not to take an unjustifiable risk and to cancel boot if necessary."

From the trade fair side, there is also a complete understanding for the decision of the politicians in view of the current pandemic situation and the challenges in the coming weeks.

Wolfram N. Diener, CEO of Messe Düsseldorf: "The pandemic must be overcome as quickly as possible so that the trade fair industry can once again work with planning security for exhibitors and visitors. It is therefore with a heavy heart that we have to say goodbye to holding boot in January 2022. However, the decision of the state government is also in line with the wishes of many exhibitors who are very worried about participating in boot during the omicron wave. I ask all those involved for their understanding and support so that we can get back to work together in full force in 2023. The heartfelt thanks of the entire boot Düsseldorf team go to all exhibitors, associations and partners who have stood by our side to date. I am sure that together we will head for a successful boot 2023, after hopefully surviving the crisis."

The other fairs planned for spring 2022 in Düsseldorf are not affected by this decision. Unlike boot, these are trade fairs attended exclusively by people for professional reasons. Messe Düsseldorf considers each event individually and, in addition to the infection, the travel and the legal situation, also takes into account the specific requirements of the respective trade fairs and their sectors.

The next boot Düsseldorf will open its doors again from 21 to 29 January 2023.

Published in Boot Düsseldorf
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For the second year in succession, the giant German Boat Show boot Düsseldorf has been forced to cancel due to mounting Covid-19 infections and new regulations announced by the German government, according to media reports.

The trade fair management company stuck it out to run boot until the very end - despite numerous exhibitor cancellations -  but it appears now the government has provided clarity.

News of the 2022 cancellation first broke internationally on IBI, the UK-based boating industry website on Wednesday evening (December 30th) even though there is still no official confirmation from boot Düsseldorf's website at 8 am on Thursday morning. The website continues to show the 53rd International Boat Show as scheduled to run from January 22 until January 30th.

While the reports may be of no surprise to many as the pandemic deepens, the closure comes after a month of international trade rumours over the viability of staging the world's biggest indoor boat show.

German website Yacht said in an article on Wednesday "The decisions taken at the federal-state conference before Christmas to contain the Omicron variant and the implementation of the state of North Rhine-Westphalia in its Corona ordinance make an international trade fair like boot impossible. As the state government just announced, boot will again not take place in January 2022"

Doubts were initially expressed in the autumn then again in early December when the Omicron variant forced several key manufacturers to pull out, one of the first being Danish manufacturer X-Yachts.

Exhibition organisers, however, were insisting the show would go ahead as late as the Christmas Break with Messe Düsseldorf CEO Wolfram Diener saying: "We have a responsibility towards our exhibitors". The German Transport Minister was announced as the VIP to open the show as late as December 20th. 

With almost 250,000 visitors, boot Düsseldorf is the world's largest boat and water sports fair and every year in January the “meeting place" for the entire industry. Around 2,000 exhibitors present their interesting new products, attractive further developments and maritime equipment. 

boot Düsseldorf has become popular with Irish boating fans in recent years due to Brexit, the convenience of direct flights from Ireland plus the demise of the much loved London boat show.

Published in Boot Düsseldorf
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boot Düsseldorf will present across 13 exhibition halls from 22 to 30 January 2022. These are Halls 4 to 6 with, among others, the entire Brunswick Group, all manufacturers of outboard motors, X-Shore, XO-Boats, Princess, Sunseeker, Sirena, Frauscher, Say and ZAR Formenti. Hall 7a with the exhibitors of superyachts, 7 with maritime art, 8b with surfing - for wingfoiling and wingsurfing the 65m pool has been deepened once again and large wind machines provide a powerful breeze for surfing. Here, market leaders such as Starboard, Gunsails, Goya and Gaastra are among the exhibitors on course. Halls 9 and 10 are almost complete with accessories and equipment exhibitors, including Capelli and Bukh Bremen.

In Hall 9, boot Düsseldorf and the European Boating Industry (EBI) will kick off a new stage at the fair in the boot sustainability forum - blue innovation dock (bid). The bid brings together companies, visionaries, investors and politicians to make the industry fit for the future. Sustainability and innovation are to be particularly promoted in this way. The United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), for example, is participating in bid with a high-level political panel on the development of sustainable coastal and marine tourism. This will focus on the expansion of new and existing destinations for maritime and inland tourism, as well as government support for marinas and other boating infrastructure.

Halls 11 and 12 are the diving and equipment centre of boot, with its highlight, the new diving tower in Hall 12. Here, among others, bts, the specialists for recreational diving, and Padi, the world's largest training network for diving, provide advice. Destination Seaside in Halls 13 and 14 is all about tourism on and around the water, with Kiriacoulis, Argos, Cosmos Yachting, Navigare and Kuhnle Hausboote among the exhibitors with their extensive booking programmes. ADAC, the German automobilist club, and the German Caravaning Industry Association (CIVD) will be showing interesting holiday combinations on the subject of water sports and caravanning.

Due to the cancellations of exhibitors from the sailboat manufacturer sector, Hall 15 is the home of the sailors for boot 2022. 40 exhibitors will present themselves here, including Bavaria, Elan, Saare, Greenboats, Haber Yachts, Imexus, Swallow Yachts as well as Aquacraft. All German class associations will be on board and many dinghy manufacturers will use boot 2022 to present their range of sports boats. The focal point and industry meeting point in Hall 15 is the sailing centre with an attractive stage program covering all aspects of international sailing. In addition, sailors will find a wide range of technical and maritime accessories and equipment in Halls 9, 10 and 11.

The sale of visitor tickets for boot 2022 has started well. Petros Michelidakis: "A look at our ticket shop shows that the international interest in boot 2022 is high. Visitors from a total of 60 countries have bought tickets for boot so far. 22 per cent of the purchases (2020: 28 per cent, final status at the time of the fair) come from interested parties from abroad. This is a very good figure for the current situation and clearly shows that visitors have started their travel plans in December. I am pleased to be able to offer all water sports enthusiasts a special boot here in Düsseldorf with many, attractive hands-on activities, committed exhibitors and a highly interesting stage programme."

Published in Boot Düsseldorf
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Boot Düsseldorf is to go ahead as planned the German organiser has confirmed today despite some exhibitors cancelling their participation. 

The organiser stated today that boot Düsseldorf will take place from 22 to 30 January 2022 with Messe Düsseldorf CEO Wolfram Diener saying: "We have a responsibility towards our exhibitors".

He said he had decided to hold boot 2022 as planned after consultations with the exhibiting branches and consistent implementation of the current Covid Protection Ordinance of the State of North Rhine-Westphalia.

Messe Düsseldorf CEO Wolfram DienerMesse Düsseldorf CEO Wolfram Diener

The confirmation comes as Danish manufacturer X-Yachts indicated it will not participate.

It is one of a number of well-known shipyards, especially in the sailing boat segment, that have dropped out over the past few weeks.

German magazine Yacht reports the entire Hanseyachts group with Hanse, Dehler, Moody, Fjord and Sealine are not attending. Y Yachts / Michael Schmidt Yachtbau and Oyster have also decided not to come to Düsseldorf.

According to YACHT information, numerous leading brands from France and Italy will also stay away. These include the Beneteau Group, the largest single exhibitor at the fair (Lagoon, Excess, Beneteau, Jeanneau, Prestige etc.) and the second-largest manufacturer, Fountaine Pajot / Dufour. Solaris, Grand Soleil, Pardo, Italia Yachts and Nautor Swan will also be missing.

The organisers say only visitors who comply with the vaccinated or recovered regulation may enter the fairgrounds during boot. In addition, wearing a particle filtering half or medical mask is compulsory in all halls. The latest air exchange regulators also ensure a regular supply of fresh air in the exhibition halls.

Messe Düsseldorf CEO Wolfram Diener: "Messe Düsseldorf has a responsibility towards both the exhibitors and the large water sports community to hold boot 2022. Since we already updated our access regulations a fortnight ago with regard to the vaccinated or recovered regulations, we are fully on track with boot 2022 even under the new regulations in the current Covid Protection Ordinance. With our tried and tested hygiene concept 'PROTaction', we will offer all participants a safe trade fair. The approval from the water sports industry for boot 2022 is good. We will be able to put on another boot in 2022 to kick off the new season."

Published in Boot Düsseldorf
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X-Yachts has pulled out of exhibiting at next month’s boot Düsseldorf 2022, citing the “tense situation” around COVID-19 in Europe.

In a statement, the Danish performance yachtmaker said: “boot Düsseldorf is one of the world's largest boat shows, and X-Yachts is usually strongly represented at the show.

“At boot Düsseldorf 2022 we were looking forward to the world premiere of the New X4³ and also for the first time to display the X-Power.

“But — in respect of the tense situation with Covid-19 — we have made the decision not to display at the 2022 show.

“Of course, the consideration for the safety of guests and employees has our first priority, and instead of boot we are working on a number of exciting activities during the spring of 2022. We will come back with more info about this later.”

Published in X-Yachts GB & IRL
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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