Superheroes Ahoy: 63rd Shannon boat rally sets sail from Rooskey

Get ready to hit the water as the 63rd Shannon Boat Rally returns from Saturday, July 26 to Sunday, August 3, 2025—promising ten days of cruising, craic and unforgettable family fun.

This year’s rally heads for the northern stretch of the River Shannon, starting with two nights in Rooskey, followed by Drumsna on July 28. Boats will moor out on Drumharlow Lake (weather permitting), then make their way to Lough Key for two nights, before cruising back to Carrick-on-Shannon for a big Bank Holiday finale.

With around 100 boats expected, the rally offers something for everyone: canoeing, sailing, water sports, barbecues, talent shows, and live music—plus plenty of riverside antics to keep all ages entertained. This year’s theme, “Super Heroes,” invites families to get creative at the Fancy Dress party and rally events, all led by the fearless “Super Commodore,” Patricia Darby.

Launched in 1961 as a collaboration between the Athlone and Carrick-on-Shannon branches of IWAI and the Boyle Development Association, the rally was created to preserve navigation and promote safe, fun use of the river. The first event saw 71 boats depart Athlone at dawn, with Commodore Paddy Flynn at the helm of Barracuda. It was such a hit—backed by Esso petrol sponsorship and Pathe News coverage—that it became an annual tradition.

More than six decades later, the rally is still going strong. Whether you're a seasoned skipper or joining for the first time, it’s the perfect way to explore the Shannon, connect with a vibrant boating community, and make memories that last long after you tie up.

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