Flotilla of boats sails into Kilrush

THE largest ever flotilla of boats to visit Kilrush Marina sailed from Limerick City to Kilrush on Tuesday and spent a few days enjoying the delights of West Clare and the Shannon Estuary as part of the inaugural Inland Waterways Association of Ireland (IWAI) Limerick/Shannon Estuary Rally.

Forty boats from around the country took part in the event and to mark the occasion, Shannon Development hosted a welcome reception for the IWAI rally participants.
“The event provided plenty of opportunities for the 200 participants to explore the numerous attractions of West Clare and the Shannon Estuary, including Loop Head Lighthouse, Kilbaha, Carrigaholt and Scattery Island,” Dr Vincent Cunnane, chief executive, Shannon Development said.
“Our members would like to invite visitors to pop down to the marina to meet the crews and have a look at the boats on Thursday from 3pm to 5.30pm,” Noel Griffin from the Inland Waterways Association of Ireland, said.
John Hehir, Kilrush Marina manager said he was delighted to welcome the large flotilla to the marina.
“It is encouraging to note that the IWAI sees Kilrush Marina as a suitable base in the lower Shannon Estuary, complementing the lakeshore bases along the Shannon River. Kilrush is also a family-friendly location and visitors, who are thinking of spending a few extra days in the area, can enjoy the Kilrush Féile Sona Family Festival, which is taking place this weekend,” he commented.