Research the waterways and decide where you want to go. The main waterways in Ireland are the Shannon Navigation, the Shannon-Erne Waterway, the Erne System (Upper Lough Erne and Lower Lough Erne), the Grand Canal, the Royal Canal, Barrow Navigation and the Lower Bann.
Decide what your budget is, how long your vacation is going to be and when you are going. If you want something low-key, cruising, boating, sailing, angling or fishing might suit you. The more adventurous might like to try kayaking, canoeing, windsurfing, waterskiing, wakeboarding or scuba diving.
Make your bookings and apply for any required fishing licenses well in advance. You can book online in most cases and pay by credit card. You can have fishing licenses delivered to your holiday destination address. You don't need a license for trout and coarse fishing. However, you need a State Salmon and Sea Trout Fishing License for that type of fishing. You can buy licenses from tackle shops and tourist outlets.
Arrive at Dublin, Shannon, Knock or Belfast International Airports, if flying in from abroad. You can also reach Ireland by ferry from the U.K., France, Germany, Holland and Belgium. Drive or take a train to your holiday destination.
Take lessons in handling your hired cruiser and the accompanying dinghy, if it is to be a cruising vacation. Learn how to read navigational charts and maintain a log book. Make sure you can properly manage the cruiser before taking off on your own.
Take lessons in scuba diving, windsurfing, waterskiing and wakeboarding. There is a risk factor involved in these sports, so get an idea before you attempt.
Read Irish Water Safety rules and keep them in mind when you're on the water. Inform the appropriate people about your whereabouts, your planned activities and your overall time-table. Keep an eye on the weather.
Explore the towns and villages and historical sites along your route. Enjoy Irish hospitality, cuisine and music at the local pubs. Check if there are going to be any cultural programs, festivals and regattas along your way.
