The upper reaches of the Shannon are formed by the junction of the Boyle and Shannon rivers. Meeting just north of Carrick, you can cruise right to their sources in Lough Key and through the narrow tree lined canal to Lough Allen.

The choices around Carrick are immense and its appeal is the bustling town of Carrick itself as well as numerous moorings and villages all within easy distance of each other:

North to Leitrim village will take you onto the Shannon-Erne waterway and in a gentle three days to the Base at Belturbet.

Downstream lies the water wonderland of winding rivers and lakes, as the Shannon grows in size. You will discover the mysterious reed beds and channels in Carnadoe, Kilglass and Grange. Lough Ree, a wilder, larger lake, offers some of the best pike fishing in Ireland. Golf courses at Glasson and Hodson Bay near Athlone welcome visitors.

Athlone is one of the larger towns in Ireland. The moorings in the centre of town are ideal for the excellent shopping as well as visiting the old fort. Continuing south you would reach Portumna, the southern Base.