We can cater for crews of all abilities and interests.

These are just a sample of what is available on a Canalways Ireland vacation. 
One thing you can be sure of is that this unique holiday experience will be one you will not forget. If you have any questions email us at

	The Kildare Canal Route:

Explore the delights of Canal Cruising in County Kildare. Mellow scenery, abundant wildlife and a fascinating canal heritage

 

2 or 3 day cruise.
Rathangan, Southwards - Monasterevin, Vicarstown, Athy, return 
Northwards - Robertstown, Sallins, Naas return.

Interesting sites.
Lullymore Discovery Park, Peatland World, The Old Canal Hotel & Museum in Robertstown, The Hill of Allen, Athy Heritage Centre.

Average distance per day is 12 mile / 20 Km, cruising time 4 hr.p.day.

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Click to see our Route Map   

  
Cruise the Midlands of Ireland by barge and cross over the famous Bog  of Allen, a unique wetland habitat. Escape to a world which has seen  little changes in 200 years and find total peace.

One week Cruise: Out and Back to Hire base.
Rathangan, Robertstown, Edenderry, Daingan, Tullamore, Return.

Distance; 76 mile / 124 KM Locks; 24 Cruising time; 4 hr.p.day.

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A beautiful and challenging River Navigation for experienced crews only.
Explore the course of an ancient and historic river in the heart of Ireland. (from source to where it becomes tidal )

One week Cruise: Out and Back to Hire base.
Rathangan, Monasterevin, Athy, Maganey, Carlow, Milford, Leighlinbridge, 

Bagnalstown, Return.
Distance; 84 mile / 132 Km. Locks; 28 Cruising time 5 hr.p.day.
  

Click here for a sample itinerary for a one way cruise on the barrow Navigation.
  

Two week Cruise: Out and Back to Hire Base.
Rathangan, Monasterevin, Athy, Maganey, Carlow, Milford, Leighlinbridge, 
Bagnalstown, Gorresbridge, Borris, Graiguenamanagh, St. Mullins Lock, Return 

Distance; 126 mile / 194 Km. Locks; 52 Cruising time 4 hr.p.day.

Route Map   

  
Combine a Canal and Shannon River Cruise and experience interesting contrasts in landscape, culture and boating activity.

Two week Cruise: Out and Back to Hire base.

Rathangan, Robertstown, Edenderry, Daingan, Tullamore, Rahan, Pollagh, Belmont, Shannon Harbour, Clonmacnoise, Banagher return.

Distance; 132 mile / 222 Km. Locks; 42. Cruising time 4 hr/p/day.

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If you are in search of the genuine real Irish pub then you have chosen the right way to travel in the heart of Ireland where pubs are still full of atmosphere and character. 

2 days or more.
We will tailor make your itinerary based on length of stay and chosen route.
We will select the best pubs where you will find the best pint and music for which the Irish pubs have become famous.

There are regular informal music sessions still taking place in a few pubs. These are not laid on for the tourist, who are of course very welcome, but are frequented by local musicians and singers ranging in ages from 7 to 70. Set dancers can also be accommodated. 

Route Map   

  
The Grand Canal and Barrow River are old trade routes where you can discover associated landmarks and crafts , ie woolen mills, distilleries, granaries, glass cutting and pottery

3 Days or more.
Depending on your length of stay and chosen route we will tailor make your itinerary to combine with the best of Irish handcraft and Heritage.

Included are Ancient sites dating from 3000 BC to early Christian, Medieval, Norman and Georgian period with Stone forts, portal graves, High crosses, churches and round towers, castles, period houses and gardens to visit. Heritage towns on the waterways include; Tullamore, Athy and Kilkenny. 

Natural features 
such as bogs, fens, woods and limestone caves can also be visited.
Some of the best Irish craft people working in wood, leather, glass and clay are based on or near the waterways.

Most of our weekly itineraries are based on having plenty of time to explore the environment, visit a heritage centre or national monument and a craft studio. It is very easy to take an excursion to Kilkenny city where there is the Kilkenny Design Centre with various craft studios and Kilkenney Castle.

Waterford Crystal Visitor centre can be reached by rail. 

Monasterevin – Westend Woolen Mills specialise in Irish sweaters.

Ballitore Quaker village in County Kildare is the home of the Shaker Furniture Store with simple designs of excellent quality. www.shakerstore.ie

Bennettsbridge in county Kilkenny is the home of the famous potter Nicholas Mosse, also with Quaker connections, who produces beautiful traditional country style spongeware. www.NicholasMosse.com

Graiguenamanagh – Home to Duiske Glass and Cushiondale Woolen Mill for blankets and tweeds. 

Kilbeggen – Locks Distillery. Most of the Distilleries are now gone such as Tullamore Dew however some small breweries are starting up again such as the Carlow Brewing Company.