This summer we finally ticked something off the list that I’ve wanted to do for years — a family cruise on the River Shannon. I felt the boys were finally all at the right age for us to enjoy it fully as a family this year (they’re aged 6, 8, and 10) . We went with Carrickcraft, setting off from Carrick-on-Shannon for a 3-night trip, and it was honestly one of the most memorable family breaks we’ve had. Something different – where no two days were the same and we got to see so much whilst spending lots of time together.
It’s the kind of holiday that feels really different from the usual hotel stay. Slower pace, no schedule, no rushing to beat the breakfast buffet. Just time together, plenty of fresh air, and lots of excitement about where we were going to be stopping off next.
The Boat – Waterford Class 6-8 Berth
There were 7 of us onboard — our family of 5 and we brought along two extra adult family members. We had loads of space on the Waterford Class boat. It sleeps up to 8, with three cabins and three bathrooms, which definitely helps when travelling with kids. The living area was really comfortable, and we made full use of the top deck for lunches, river cruising, and chilled-out evenings.
Carrickcraft provide full training when you arrive, and they really walk you through everything. There’s also a course you complete beforehand with short video tutorials which is super straightforward.
Also — worth mentioning — they have a great setup with the local supermarket where they collect you from the dock, bring you shopping to get stocked up for your trip, and bring you back to the boat. It made things so easy, especially with kids who are always suddenly starving.
Our Route: From Carrick-on-Shannon to Lough Key
We cruised from Carrick-on-Shannon towards Lough Key, stopping off along the way and exploring at our own pace. You’re limited by how far you can go each day, so it never feels like you’re rushing or covering too much ground. The kids loved being up top on the boat and looking out for other cruisers along the river. Other boats on the river were incredibly friendly – there was lots of waving at other boats over the course of the 3 days – and everyone waves back enthusiastically which the kids loved. Carrickcraft gave us a couple of pairs of binoculars at reception before we head off too and they were a huge hit for spotting birds and looking ahead on the river.
Lough Key
Lough Key was a big highlight. We had amazing weather, so we swam at Lough Key and had one of those golden evenings where everything was just easy. We were lucky enough to get to enjoy an unreal sunset. The kids were happy, sun was setting, grown-ups had a glass of wine in hand — a massive win all round.
There’s loads to do here too — Zip It if you’ve older kids, kayaking, a nice café, boating, and a forest park with great walking trails. We spent a good few hours here and could’ve easily stayed longer.
Leitrim Village
A handy spot to stop off for lunch — we ate at The Blueway Lodge which was excellent. Good value, decent portions, and clean plates all around. It’s a small stop but a really lovely one, and everything is just that bit more relaxed when you know your bed is only a short boat trip away.
Drumshanbo
Another favourite was Drumshanbo, home of the Shed Distillery (where Drumshanbo Gunpowder Gin is made). There’s a great café here — The Jackalope Café — which is definitely worth visiting, even if you’re not doing the full tour. We had lunch here before heading off again and the food was really good.
Carrick-on-Shannon
We started and ended our trip in Carrick, and it’s such a lovely town to wander around. Lots of little bars, restaurants, and shops. We had dinner in Di Vinos, a lovely Italian restaurant with brilliant service and really tasty food. I always love a place where no one leaves anything behind on the plate — and this was one of those meals. Great kids menu and great value.
Life Onboard
Evenings on the boat were one of my favourite things about this trip. We’d pull in and get settled, light a little candle outside (definitely pack one), and the kids would play board games or watch a DVD. We brought a portable speaker too and just had a few drinks, some food, chatted until late and listened to some tunes.
This holiday allowed lots of time for chats, games, snacks, and the odd argument over who was taking up all the space on the couch.
What to Pack
A few things we were glad we brought:
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Soft bags or packing cubes – there’s not a lot of space for big hard cases
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Portable speaker – perfect for evening tunes
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Board games + DVDs – screen-free downtime for the win
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Dry robes/raincoats – it is Ireland
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Suncream – because we actually needed it
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Groceries/snacks – pack for the first day and stock up before you leave Carrick
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A candle or little lantern – makes evenings outside so cosy
- Microfibre towels – that dry quickly between swims or rainshowers!
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for something different — not too far from home, but full of new experiences — this kind of holiday is ideal. It’s relaxed, flexible, and full of chances to just be together, without all the usual distractions.
Carrickcraft were brilliant to deal with and made the whole experience feel really manageable, even for complete beginners. It’s not the kind of family trip you’ll forget in a hurry — and if your kids are anything like mine, they’ll be asking when we can do it again before you’ve even docked the boat.
Highly recommend!
*Many thanks for Carrickcraft for having us. Carrickcraft kindly invited us on a PR visit. I chose to write this post because we had such a fun and memorable trip.
