A Lough Derg weekend from Killaloe for boat owners

Leave in time to arrive in daylight, as spring and autumn evenings are short. The lake widens quickly north of the twin towns; the forecast matters even on a short run, because Lough Derg can turn rough within an hour, especially in a southerly wind. Mountshannon harbour is one of the busiest on the lake on summer evenings, with berths on the wall and on floating jetties, shore power, a pump-out, toilets and showers. The village was laid out around 1740 by a Limerick linen merchant. The Snug Pizzeria on Main Street is about ten minutes' walk from the harbour, and a petrol station with a small shop is close by.

Spend the morning on Inis Cealtra, about 2 km offshore. The guided boat from the pier runs daily from April to September, weather permitting, with no booking. If you go in your own boat, note that whether private boats may use the small jetty has not been confirmed; many crews anchor off and row ashore. The island has a round tower, six ruined churches and a graveyard still in use. After lunch, cross the lake to Dromineer's public marina: floating jetties, shore power, a pump-out and a new building with showers paid by card. Lough Derg Yacht Club sometimes fits in visiting cruisers by arrangement. The Whiskey Still is a few steps away.

If you need diesel, Shannon Sailing's private marina west of the village has a pump; phone for access. Check the forecast, then head down the Tipperary shore to Garrykennedy, only 6 km away, for lunch: the floating jetties outside the old stone harbour are the easiest berths, and Larkins, a thatched bar and restaurant two minutes away, is known for food and traditional music. A woodland trail runs along the shore beside the harbour. From there it is about two hours back to Killaloe as the lake narrows into the river. In 2026 the Féile Brian Ború festival filled both towns in the first week of July; its 2027 dates are not out yet.