Erne System Boating Information

Navigational rules

Navigational rules, known as bye-laws, outline the proper usage of waterways. Waterways Ireland, through its Inspectorate, has responsibility for enforcing those navigational bye-laws. The Erne System adheres to specific bye-laws, including:

• Lough Erne (Navigation) Bye-laws (Northern Ireland) 1978
• Lough Erne (Navigation) (Amendment) Byelaws (Northern Ireland) 1986

Mooring regulations

The public mooring time limit on the Erne System is 48 hours, and vessels are allowed to return after being away for four hours. If you intend to stay in a location beyond this limit, please get in touch with the Lough Erne Warden or consider securing a private mooring.

The speed limit on the Erne System is 5 knots. This limit is in place to ensure the safety of all users and the preservation of the natural environment. 

Speed limits may also be in place on other sections of the waterway and are monitored by the Inspectorate. 

Speed must be lowered within 200m of a bridge or jetty, 100m of a lock, in a canal or harbour and when passing within 100m of a moored vessel. 

You are asked to consider the wash of your boat and its effect on others. All engine-powered boats create a wave of water, known as a wash, which flows outwards from the boat as it moves forward. Look behind you frequently to check the effect that your wash is having on other users. 

You are advised to reduce your speed in narrow channels to prevent bank erosion, damage to reed beds and destruction of birds' nests among reed and bank habitats. Slow down where boats are moored, when approaching quays, jetties or locks or where water activities are taking place.

Length and no. of locks

84km from Belleek to Belturbet with 1 lock

Opening hours of locks

Portora Lock is the only lock on the system and is usually open during the cruising season. 

Navigation dimensions

• Length of lock - 36m
• Beam of lock - 6m
• Draft - 1.2m
• Air draft - 4.2m

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

Lock assistance

The lock at Portora is normally open, except when water levels are low. The lock is operated by Rivers Agency on behalf of ESB, who control the water levels on Lough Erne. If you require passage through the lock when it is closed, please contact Rivers Agency on +44 (0)28 6638 8529.

It is not possible to enter the Erne System from the sea directly. Access is via the Shannon Estuary, River Shannon and Shannon-Erne Waterway.