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Displaying items by tag: O'Sullivan's Marine

Position: Business Development and Operations Manager.

Location: Tralee, Co. Kerry.

Role: The business development and operations manager is a key leadership position within a fast-growing business in the marine industry.

The prime business of the company was boat building, but it has now added the distribution of several marine products, ranging from boats to outboard motors, boat trailers and marine safety equipment. This business is currently being developed at a quick pace within Ireland, with great potential to expand into other markets.

The purpose of this role is to develop and maintain key relationships with clients/customers by managing day-to-day operations to ensure client service level expectations are exceeded.

This role requires excellent management, communication, sales, leadership, staff supervision and customer service skills. Candidates are required to have a third level qualification relevant to the post. Knowledge of the marine industry is desirable, but not essential.

Finally, the candidate would be required to have the ability to be involved in all aspects of the business as we have a small but diverse team that works together to ensure best service to our customers and supply-chain.

CV’s and cover letters can be sent to [email protected] 

Published in Jobs

Safety first! Whaly boats are now becoming the No. 1 Polyethylene safety boat used by many professional organisations writes Brian O'Sullivan of O'Sullivan's Marine

Whaly's almost indestructible crafts are ideally suited for Search and Rescue, Fire & Rescue, Safety Cover, Workboat etc. all over the world. They can be used for all sorts of different rescue operations, but in whatever situation, you can be assured that safety comes first with Whaly.

Suppose you are looking for extremely sturdy basic equipment or a boat that can take some rough handling or get into shallow waters. In that case, you will find that you can rely on the optimal safety that Whaly boats offer for safety for you and your passengers. Please allow us to introduce Whaly boats/models ideally suited for rescue operations:

  • Whaly 370
  • Whaly 435 / 435R Professional
  • Whaly 455 / 455R Professional
  • Whaly 500 / 500R Professional

Whatever your requirements, whether you are looking for the supply of just a boat, or looking to put together a package with an engine, trailer, console, electronics and safety equipment, O'Sullivan's Marine has the experience and expertise to help you find the Whaly to suits your unique requirements.

Published in O'Sullivan's Marine
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O’Sullivan’s Marine stock a large selection of life jackets and buoyancy aids for adults, children and infants available from some of the leading brands. We have all types, from inflatable lifejackets in automatic and manual versions with or without an integrated safety harness, foam life jackets, SOLAS folding commercial lifejackets to 50N foam and neoprene buoyancy aids. But which is the right life jacket to suit your type of activity and experience?

Lifejackets and Buoyancy Aids are tested and rated to specific European Standards and split into CE categories. These are the universal criteria that define each product and the environment they are suitable for. Life jackets and buoyancy aids are measured in pounds or Newtons.

BUOYANCY AIDS

lalizas fit and float bouyancy aid osmarineThe Lalizas fit and float buoyancy aid

50N Buoyancy Aids – ISO 12402-5

Designed mainly for active surface watersports for example dinghy sailing, kayaking, kite surfing, in sheltered water where help is close at hand. These are suitable for competent swimmers and provide support to conscious people. We have some of the best value foam buoyancy aids on the market, Fit & Float, Pro Race, Performance buoyancy aids in a range of sizes, a range of 50N neoprene buoyancy aids. We even have your pets covered with Pet Retriever Buoyancy aids.

LIFE JACKETS

100 Newtons of buoyancy is the standard minimum for Lifejackets. It is sufficient to keep most people afloat with their mouth comfortably above the water For offshore and coastal sailing, where sea conditions can be severe and rescue can take longer 150 Newtons is the recommendation.

foam lifejacket osullivans marine ireland 767The Lalizas foam lifejacket

100N – 150N Foam Lifejackets – ISO 12402-4

Designed for dinghy sailing, sportsboats, powerboats (Including RIBs) for inshore and coastal waters. These are suitable for swimmers and non-swimmers and give reasonable assurance of safety from drowning in relatively calm water. Our Lalizas range of 100 and 150N foam lifejackets have a large flotation collar which is designed to turn the user face up and support the head. Foam lifejackets for babies, infants, children and adults available.

marinepool lifejacket ireland osmarineMarinepool lifejacket

150N – 180N Inflatable Lifejacket – ISO 12402-3

spinlock deckvest ireland osmarineThe Spinlock deckvest

Designed for yachting, sports boats, powerboats (Including RIBs) for use in all but the most severe conditions. These are suitable for swimmers and non-swimmers. Available in automatic or manual.

Automatic styles inflate when wet or submerged in water. Automatic inflation can be important in life-saving if an accident occurred leaving you in the water, or if you are unconscious in the water.

Manual inflation requires jerking an inflation tab or handle attached to the CO2 cartridge. If you are in a situation where you want to control whether or not the vest inflates, and expect to be conscious, manual inflatables may be an option for you.

Both manual and automatic life jackets are available with or without a safety harness. If you ever anticipate sailing offshore, at night or in seas where you want to use a tether to attach yourself to a jackline or pad eye, even just once, purchase an inflatable life jacket with a built-in harness and tether attachment point.

O’Sullivan’s Marine offer a range of inflatable life jackets from some of the leading brands: Marinepool, Maindeck, Waveline, Spinlock, Plastimo and Lalizas.

Should you need any assistance, our knowledgeable sales team will only be too glad to help with your lifejacket selection, to ensure you get the right life jacket for your needs and are safe on the water.

LIFE JACKET SERVICING – How often should lifejackets be serviced?

Manufacturers, safety bodies and the RNLI universally recommend the importance of regular lifejacket servicing. Inflatable life jackets, for normal personal use, should be serviced every 2 years. Where life jackets are used very regularly or for professional or commercial use, this should be carried out every year. Here at O’Sullivan’s Marine, our qualified staff can service and certify our life jacket brands.

As well as a comprehensive range of life jackets and buoyancy aids, O’Sullivan’s Marine also supply life jacket spares & accessories, from SOLAS approved lifejacket lights, CO2 recharge cylinders and UML cartridges, replacement salt tablets, sprayhoods, to name a few.

Visit our website http://www.osmarine.ie to browse our full range of life jackets, lifebuoys and other marine safety equipment, and feel free to contact us for advice, or to request a quotation for products that comply with code of practice safety requirements for grant purposes.

Published in O'Sullivan's Marine
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There can be little worse than heading out for a day's boating only to find someone has stolen your outboard motor, leaving you to deal with the loss, painful insurance issues, the costly excess or replacement of the engine and a ruined weekend. Thefts tend to occur in areas where there are significant accumulations of boats with outboards, for example, marinas and boating clubs; however, the problem is nationwide and can also occur in isolated regions.

Combatting Outboard Motor Theft

The more visibly secure an engine is, the less likely it is that a thief will attempt to take it. Given the reduced rates of recovery success, prevention is better than cure. The first step owners should take is to ensure the most secure and suitable anti-theft device for their engine is installed. Owners also need to ensure that their insurance policy wording relating to anti-theft devices are complied with in full, to avoid the possibility of a claim being invalidated due to failure to comply with all policy wordings. No outboard is insured unless it is locked on with an insurance approved lock.

INSURANCE APPROVED ENGINE LOCKS

O'Sullivan's Marine is now able to supply MOTORLOC insurance approved outboard locks to the Irish market.

Atlantic Slot Lock

The Atlantic Slot Lock is the most substantial insurance approved outboard motor lock and is available in four lengths: 170mm, 195mm, 230mm, 260mm; each with a 14mm slot. A high-security locking head (HSH) is supplied as is a black dust cap and a rubber liner. Design specifically for smaller, clamp-mounted outboard engines.

s l300Atlantic Slot Lock

These are for use where an outboard engine is attached using the engine's clamping bracket. The slot in the lock covers the two clamp heads making it nearly impossible for a potential thief to get access to them.

Atlantic Slot Lock3

Choosing the right size: If you are unsure which Slot Lock you require, then measure across the width of your toggles once aligned up straight: If less than 150mm then an Atlantic 170 is required | If less than 160mm then an Atlantic 195 is required | If over 160mm then an Atlantic 230 is required | If above 190mm then an Atlantic 260 is required. Available from O'Sullivan's Marine, Co Kerry.

The Volcano

The Volcano Bolt Lock represents the pinnacle of insurance approved bolt lock development. It is now regarded by many in the industry as the best bolt lock on the market as it has been designed and built to resist removal by the most robust actions.

Volcano Bolt LockVolcano Bolt Lock

For through-transom bolted engine installations

As two stroke outboard motors become rarer and new heavier four-stroke outboard engines take their place, many owners of 8hp engines and above sensibly choose to bolt the engine through the transom in a semi-permanent installation to protect from outboard motor theft.

The Volcano bolt lock is intended for use with through-bolts that are coach, countersunk or stepped, so that should a thief attack the head of the bolt and remove it, they will be unable to hammer the bolt shank through the existing hole.

Volcano Bolt Lock 2Volcano Bolt Lock

The Volcano bolt-lock for through-transom bolted outboard engines has a 13mm diameter hole in the body unit. A stainless steel reducing bush is available to cut the gap to 10mm.

Motorloc insurance approved locks are made from high grade (nickel/chrome marine 316) stainless steel, incorporating marine friendly lock mechanisms that perform well in a saltwater/marine environment - High-quality locks that will last. All available from O'Sullivan's Marine, Co Kerry.

OTHER SECURITY MEASURES FOR COMBATTING THEFT

Further security measures include marking the engine somewhere with your own unique mark such as your Eircode, taking photographs and installing a motion-activated surveillance camera (MASC), which are very discrete and inexpensive to buy and install. These automatically photograph and/or record any movement, and wireless cameras have made surveillance possible in remote areas where it was not possible in the past.

When storing a boat, ashore consideration should be given to general security, such as lighting and ensuring that recorded CCTV covers the appropriate part of the yard being used.

Finally, there is some evidence of smaller engines being stolen from boats while they are afloat, so a collective effort is required by all concerned to be observant and to report any suspicious activity immediately to the Gardai.

For further information or advice on Insurance Approved Engine Locks contact O'SULLIVAN'S MARINE on 066-7124524, or visit www.osmarine.ie.

For trade enquiries please email: [email protected]

Published in O'Sullivan's Marine

An array of boats, kayaks, inflatables, outboards and safety equipment is on display this weekend on the O’Sullivan’s Marine stand at the Ireland Angling Show at The National Show Centre in Swords in north Dublin.

Early attendance to the show this morning is reported as 'very good' by the firm's Brian O'Sullivan.

Whaly boatThe multi purpose Whaly boat with bow door is on display

O’Sullivan’s Marine are displaying their recent consignment of Whaly boats - including the eagerly anticipated Whaly 455 – the first to arrive in Ireland! As Afloat reported previously here, the County Kerry firm delivered five Whaly 500R boats to Inland Fisheries in March last year.

O'Sullivan's Marine is also displaying in Swords some of the “best value” angling kayaks as Afloat reported earlier here. Included in the display is the very popular compact single sit-on-top Conger fishing kayak that is stable, light and easy to handle.

CanoesCanoes and Kayaks from OSM

Show attendance

Published in O'Sullivan's Marine
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O’Sullivan’s Marine will be displaying some of the “best value” angling kayaks in Ireland at this year’s Ireland Angling Expo in the National Show Centre, Swords, Dublin on 15th & 16th February 2020.

ANGLING & RECREATIONAL KAYAKS TO SUIT ALL LEVELS AND BUDGETS

RECREATIONAL: on display

conger KayakThe Conger kayak

CONGER
The Conger is a compact single sit-on-top fishing kayak that is stable, light and easy to handle. Four internal fishing rod holders, a large storage area at the rear and 2 waterproof round hatches with bag inserts to secure your gear. The Conger kayak is a well-featured starter kayak at a very reasonable price.

Rodster KayakThe Rodster kayak

RODSTER
The Rodster is a neat compact fishing kayak that tracks beautifully through the water due to its sleek bow design and is extremely stable due to the 84cm wide hull. Equipped with a comfortable aluminium-frame raised seat and plenty of storage areas for your catch and equipment. 4 internal flush-mounted rod holders and deep fishing pod console in the centre. Hands-free rudder system available as an optional extra.

Dace pro 8 767pxThe Dace Pro

PROFESSIONAL ANGLING KAYAKS:

Professional angling kayaks on display include The Dace Pro 10’, 12’ and 14’ as well as the Big Dace Pro 13’. Packed to the gills with fishing features, and everything needed for a comfortable and productive outing for professional fishermen and women.

These kayaks are extremely well-featured and offer the perfect combination of stability, speed, manoeuvrability and straight-line tracking.

big dace pro angler 13 4Big Dace Pro Angler 13

TANDEM AND 1 + 1 KAYAKS

For those who want to share the fun, O’Sullivan’s Marine also offer the GLIDE 1 + 1, which has room to bring a small passenger in front of the paddler, along with the OCEANUS (2.5 p) and the CASTOR DOUBLE KAYAK - boasting a huge load carrying capacity of 300kg and extra-wide seating area, perfect for a fishing trip for two! 

TARPON PROPEL

Tarpon 7Tarpon 7

The Tarpon Propel is equipped with a performance-engineered pedal drive system for hands-free fishing, accessory gear tracks, adjustable seat, hand-controlled rudder and 2 flush mount rod holders. Coming in at 10.5’ long and 33 inches wide this fishing machine is ready for anything!

Come and see these and more at O’Sullivan’s Marine Ireland Fishing Expo stand!

Published in O'Sullivan's Marine

With all the uncertainty around Brexit, O’Sullivan’s Marine have been pro-active in securing a level of consistency and reliability of supply of various ranges of marine products that are traditionally shipped into Ireland from the UK.

The first line to be announced for sole distribution in Ireland by O’Sullivan’s Marine is Cobra Marine Radios. When it comes to the latest VHF radios, nothing comes close to a Cobra.

cobra

When heading out on the water, a fixed-mount VHF radio is vital for communication and safety. With advanced safety features, easy menu navigation, and 24 hr access to emergency alerts and broadcasts, Cobra’s got you covered. With advanced features like Rewind-Say-Again® so you’ll never miss a VHF call, Radio check – checks battery transmitting voltage, RF power output and antenna integrity. Submersible for 30 minutes in 1.5m deep water which meets IPX8/JIS8 standards. With noise-cancelling microphone to block background noise for clearer communication and PA function for public address to an external speaker.

The MRF57B (pictured top) is a powerful Class D DSC VHF radio perfect for short or long-range communication, Plug and play GPS capable. The MRF77B is Cobra’s most advanced fixed radio, a unique VHF radio with an integrated GPS receiver and exact location for a true life-saving device.

MRHH600B stra 800xThe advanced HH600 model with built-in GPS

Cobra also offers a range of FIVE Hand Held VHF radios, from the entry-level HH125, perfect for recreational boaters or as a portable backup on larger vessels. The backlit LCD and keypad allows use in low light conditions and will turn off automatically to conserve battery power. Includes 1 or 3 watts, Large, bright LCD display, Compact waterproof design, 5 x 850 mAh AAA NiMH Rechargeable Batteries. It can also be used with 5 standard AAA alkaline batteries in emergencies. Features 1 or 3 Watts Dual output power for short and long communication. From this basic radio, Cobra offers HH150, HH350, HH500 each floating handheld with their own unique features, through to the advanced HH600 model with built-in GPS. View exact coordinates, transmit your location, and use its Bluetooth® capabilities to keep your phone safe and dry. The added flashlight with emergency strobe ensures you can always be found. Rewind-Say-Again®Automatically records the last 20 seconds of VHF calls so you can always playback what you missed. Selectable Power - Select between 1, 3 and 6 watts of output power for short and long-range communication, with Crystal clear, illuminated display which makes it easy to read your radio. 

O’Sullivan’s Marine are proud to be able to offer Cobra products to the Irish market, for more detailed information on pricing and model features, visit www.osmarine.ie, or contact 066-7124524 – Trade enquiries: please email [email protected].

Published in O'Sullivan's Marine

O’Sullivan’s Marine is proud to represent Ocean Fenders in Ireland, and for the month of October, are offering 20% off all Ocean fenders… while stocks last.

Ocean Fenders – the leading brand in the fendering industry, offer superior quality, lifetime performance and maximum protection. Their exclusive designs undergo extensive quality testing ensuring consistent quality – at highly competitive prices. Ocean Buoys and Fenders are made in one piece, resulting in consistent wall thickness throughout.

R series 72002 008R series

R Series Heavy Duty Buoys – Versatile buoys for the most adverse conditions.
Rock-solid rope-hold with reinforced material
Simple valve for convenient inflation
Seamless construction
UV resistant
More ribs than any other buoy on the market
Widely popular among commercial fishermen, but also among recreational boats too.

H Series 71984 992H Series

H Series Heavy Duty Fenders in which the rib-reinforced rock-solid rope-holds on the two sides of the fender are made in such a way to provide extra strength and durability for the fender. A versatile fender for the most adverse conditions. Suitable for any use and any kind of boat from 10-60ft, the Ocean Heavy Duty fender “fends” proudly.

U Series 72260 265U Series

U Series Fenders, the utility fender for every use and everyone! As with all of the Ocean fenders, it is made out of Plastisol PVC material, with rotation moulding procedure making it the highest quality utility fender in the market. The simple valve offers convenient inflation and maximum protection at the same time.

CH series 72266 268 with ropeCH series with rope

CH Series Centre Hole Fenders, distinct for their multiple use since they are designed for both horizontal and vertical application to any small to medium boat. Accompanied with white rope to make your life easier!

RT series 72107 110RT series

RT Series Rope Through Fenders, multiple use for both horizontal and vertical application for any boat, with reinforced vertical ribs, giving extra protection. Made in one piece for consistent wall thickness. For boats 15 to 50 feet.

For more information: www.osmarine.ie

Published in O'Sullivan's Marine

For many years O’Sullivan’s Marine have been the ‘go to’ outlet for quality outboard engine brands such as Tohatsu, Suzuki and Honda — and now Yahama outboards have been added to their available stock range, writes Brian O’Sullivan.

Whether you are looking to purchase an individual engine, or as part of a tailored boat package, O’Sullivan’s Marine are now able to offer all top-quality engine brands — ex stock.

Yamaha’s highly popular engines are well known for their reliability, quiet running and excellent fuel economy, and range from lightweight portable 2.5HP right through to the powerful 350HP V8.

O’Sullivan’s Marine are renowned for their expertise in both the supply and servicing of outboard engine, and have the largest choice of outboard engines on permanent display in their Tralee showrooms.

With full-time mechanics and the latest equipment and software, O’Sullivan’s Marine can service everything they supply. Contact them for a quotation — for a new engine to whatever repairs may be required, they are happy to oblige.

Published in O'Sullivan's Marine

After launching a comprehensive new range of Cool Kayaks earlier in the season, the demand was so high that stocks soon ran out… not surprising considering their high quality and exceptionally good prices writes Brian O'Sullivan of O'Sullivan's Marine.

The good news is that a new consignment arrived into O’Sullivan’s Marine on 6th August, and the even better news is that they have increased their range, and can now offer an even bigger selection of “best value” kayaks in Ireland!

Sit On Top Kayaks

Sit on top kayaks are getting increasingly more popular, and at O’Sullivan’s Marine they have models to suit all budgets and abilities.

Recreational Fun for all the family

From the low profile sleek Flash Kayak for small adults and children up to the 9’6” Conger single kayaks and several models in between, O’Sullivan’s Marine can offer a range to suit all individual kayakers.

oceanus 5 767Oceanus 5

For those who want to share the fun, they also offer the Glide 1 + 1, this stable versatile platform has room to bring a small passenger in front of the paddler or the Oceanus 2.5 seater, a well-priced tandem kayak.

Angling Kayaks

Using kayaks for angling is a rapidly growing pastime that has many advantages for fishermen and women. It allows the exploration of areas that would otherwise be difficult to access, giving more fishing time and potentially bigger catches!

Dace pro 8 767pxThe Dace Pro 8

O’Sullivan’s Marine has a comprehensive choice of models for the angler, fully equipped with everything needed for a comfortable and productive outing. Ranging from the 9’6” Rodster up to the Dace Pro Angler 14’ single kayak, and the Caster double seater, these kayaks are well-featured and offer the perfect combination of stability, speed, manoeuvrability and straight-line tracking.

Tarpon Propel Kayak

Packed to the gills with fishing features, the Tarpon Propel 10 pedal kayak is equipped with a performance-engineered pedal drive system for hands-free fishing, accessory gear tracks, adjustable seat, hand-controlled rudder and 2 flush mount rod holders. Coming in at 10.5’ long and 33 inches wide this fishing machine is ready for anything!

Tarpon 767pxTarpon

Touring Sit in Kayak

The Swift touring kayak has a unique design that cuts through the water easily, giving it extraordinary acceleration. Equipped with a large seat well and two storage hatches.

swift 3 767pxSwift 3

SUP Boards

Available in 10’ and 12’, the cool SUP boards are high quality, competitively priced and equipped with storage hatches, foot cushions, bungees, drain plugs and carrying handles.

All Cool kayaks are well equipped as standard, but also offer a full range of additional accessories, from roof racks to luxury seats, all available from next week at O’Sullivan’s Marine.

For more information contact 066 7124524 or visit www.osmarine.ie

Published in O'Sullivan's Marine
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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