Can there really be anything more relaxing than the sun shining down as the wind rushes past, and the water spreads out all around you? It does not matter if your taste lies in a zippy little speedboat, the much more modest speed of a rocking rowboat, the glamour of a sailboat or even the luxury of a small seagoing yacht; boating in Ireland is an experience well worth having.

When it comes to the glamour of boating, nothing can quite compete with a sailboat. Ireland is not only home to some lovely waterways on which to sail, it is also home to the oldest yacht club in the world. Founded in 1720, the Royal Cork Yacht Club is a piece of Irish history and a piece of sailing history as well. Sailing schools are available in Ireland, or you can simply charter a boat with an experienced captain and enjoy the experience as a passenger.

Cabin cruising is quite popular in Ireland too, even inland, and you can charter a boat to enjoy. The River Shannon is the main centre for inland river cruising in Ireland with many operators offering boats for rent at various locations along the Shannon. Also popular inland are canoeing and kayaking activities; whether you would like nothing better than to recline on the deck of a cabin cruiser, or to experience the exhilaration of paddling down a rapidly-rushing river in a kayak with a friend or two, there are waterways abundant for the purpose. There are also many places to rent the necessary equipment, if you did not bring your own.

Finally, if boating on the Shannon just seems too blasé by itself, why not try adding something a bit more exciting to the mix? Try chartering a boat and hiring some scuba gear; there are several places along Ireland’s coast where you can experience the delights of underwater exploration. Usually this option is available to tourists from March through to October, although the seasonal changes will ultimately dictate the length of the diving season.