The sites and sounds of Northern Ireland are often best sampled from the water. Either take control of your own boat (bareboat) or charter a boat with a Skipper on board. Boats vary from barges, luxury motor cruisers, fishing vessels and sailing yachts.

The boat charter provision in Northern Ireland means this decision is made for you. Bareboat charter is only available on Lough Erne, where you can hire from a range of providers. However boats can be chartered with a qualified Skipper on the majority of the main tidal Loughs i.e. Foyle, Belfast, Strangford and Carlingford.

If you fancy getting away from it all, then Lough Erne is the perfect venue. The Fermanagh lakes provide the right balance of unspoilt countryside, bars, restaurants and lakeshore attractions. Hire a 20 -30ft motor cruiser with up to eight beds and all mod cons and cast off with friends and family.

Boat charter with a Skipper takes away the responsibility but also a little of the freedom. However the Skipper’s local knowledge will be invaluable when using their boat for fishing, diving or general sightseeing.

First decide what suits you best. If you are looking for enjoyment with less responsibility then a Skipper charter is for you. A wide range of charters boats are available for a variety of needs. However if you want to make the decisions and travel at your own pace then hire a motor cruiser of Lough Erne, again there are a large number of providers to choose from.

Boat Charter with a Skipper is easy, let the Skipper take responsibility whilst you help crew the vessel. Cruiser Hire takes a bit more practice but all hire companies will provide at least half a days training before you embark on your travels.

Boat Charter with a Skipper costs from £100 per day, longer charter rates are negotiable. Self Drive Motor Cruisers are typically hired for short break costing from £500 or seven day break £800. Different boats have different standards so like any service you pay for what you get.