Barrow Blueway

18/08/2026

So, after 25 years of hiring out barges, we are a bit sad to say that this will be our last year in business.

Our aim was to create a unique holiday experience that we were passionate about, while offering a personal, friendly, non-corporate service.

Thanks to our many lovely customers, some of whom have become great friends and have been with us for a good part of our journey.

Thanks to Liam for helping with the mechanical side of things, and to the Waterways Ireland staff, most of whom were obliging and helpful.

And thanks to everyone who supported us with Facebook likes, shares and nice comments.

We have met so many interesting people from all over the world, and that's what we'll miss the most.

We are hoping the barges will continue to be rented out in the future by someone with the same passion and interest in the waterways as we have.

We are taking bookings until September.

We will be setting up a separate page for 31M, if you are interested in following its journey.

Fair winds and following seas.

Orla, Philip, Sadhbh and Alannah
Barrowline Cruisers Team

04/07/2026

19/05/2026

30/04/2026

We are delighted to share that the Barrow Blueway will feature on Season 13 of Tracks and Trails this Friday May 1st on RTÉ One at 8:30pm and will be on the RTE Player afterwards.

The presenter Doireann Ní Ghlacáin meets musician Jack Lukeman and soprano Celine Byrne to explore the Blueway.

In the first segment, musician Jack Lukeman will journey along the Barrow Blueway from Athy to Vicarstown, a stretch renowned for its tranquil waters, wildlife, and links to Ireland’s industrial past. The route follows the River Barrow, offering a unique combination of natural beauty and engineered heritage, with locks, towpaths, and bridges telling the story of Ireland’s canal network.

The second part of the Kildare episode will feature acclaimed soprano Celine Byrne walking the Grand Canal from Monasterevin to Robertstown. This section of the canal, often described as one of the most peaceful in the country, is steeped in literary and historical significance, once frequented by poets and travellers and continuing to draw walkers and cyclists year-round.