Moving a Yacht from Lough Neagh to the Irish Sea

[langstonelayabout]

Does anyone know the best way to move a boat from Lough Neagh to the Irish Sea?

Is there a navigable river (Min draft 4'6") to the sea from the lough or is the only real alternative moving the boat by road?

Many thanks in advance!

 

[BERT T]

What size and overall height less mast?

 

[Zen Zero]

the Bann is navigable. Isn't it?

 

[Zen Zero]

the Bann is navigable. Isn't it?

Just about

Navigational Criteria
Length: 35 m
Beam: 5.5 m
Draft: *1m
Air draft: 1.5m at high water Coleraine
4.2m at low water Coleraine

Draft dimensions are given as a guide only and cannot be guaranteed.

*Masters of deep drafted boats are asked to contact the Operations office in Coleraine before travelling. Tel no +44 (0)28 7034 4342.

From http://www.waterwaysireland.org/index.cfm/section/article/page/LowerBannNavigationInformation

For a 4'6 draft it looks like the answer is no. Sorry!

 

[oldbilbo]

There are always answers. You just need to work out where to look - and here is a good start.

The Dutch had this problem, or a very similar one, for centuries. You might therefore investigate their techniques of using flotation 'camels' as described in 'Seamanship In The Age of Sail' and/or shipping your boat downriver raised between two barges. A careful and detailed survey would be necessary....

The bridge at Coleraine could be the limiting factor. What's the depth just there?

 

[BERT T]

The Lower Bann is maintained at a minimum depth of 1.55 metres. It will depend on the time of year and whether the flood gates are open. With careful planning and suitable weather (after plenty of rain) I would say yes it could be done. Contact the engineers at the Cutts on 028 70342357 for advice on water levels. Below the Cutts the river is tidal, it would be a good idea to buy a copy of The River Bann and Lough Neigh Pilot.

 

[BERT T]

There are always answers. You just need to work out where to look - and here is a good start.

The Dutch had this problem, or a very similar one, for centuries. You might therefore investigate their techniques of using flotation 'camels' as described in 'Seamanship In The Age of Sail' and/or shipping your boat downriver raised between two barges. A careful and detailed survey would be necessary....

The bridge at Coleraine could be the limiting factor. What's the depth just there?

The clearance at Coleraine old bridge is 4.15 m at low water springs.

 

[causeway]

I brought my Albin Vega down to Coleraine from Lough Neagh last summer, we were scraping the bottom at Movannagher (might have been another lock). It was only weeds though, you might be able to push through it. Albin Vega draught is about 1.2m (4ft).

Kennedy's do boat transport or is this a cheap and cheery option?

Bridges won't be a problem except possibly the old bridge in Coleraine at HT.

It was a lovely scenic trip though, you need a fiver for the first Lock and then you ring the Locks as you are approaching.

 

[underdog]

Lough neagh to Irish Sea
I have taken my 32 foot Artekno H323 up and down the River Bann for the last 3 Years. She draws 1.45m (4' 9") There are a few places that are quite shallow and require careful navigation. I watch the echo sounder carefuly and slow right down when it starts to get too shallow.Sometimes it requires a bit of trial and error to find a navigable passage.The lock keepers are very helpful and the navigation markers are well maintained . You will need to take the mast down.This can be done at Ballyronan marina which is about 4 miles from the entrance to the canal at Toome.The mast can be restepped at Coleraine Marina.Please pm me if you need more info.

 

[Mrnotming]

A guy recommended to me based near Athlone has a big rig for boat transport.
Michael Barrett,
SGS
Athlone,
00353868235197
As there are no ferry crossings involved might not be expensive?