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To get the full benefit of a visit to Donegal Town, a trip in the waterbus is a "must". The 80min cruise explores the history, environment and wildlife of this unique estuary, which is renowned for its vistas of mountains and sea. The boat is weatherproof, comfortable and completely safe.From the helm, Skipper Billy Bustard gives a lively commentary on the sights of special interest,which include:
Burial place of the great Gaelic Chieftain Red Hugh O'Donnell the first and his wife Nuala. A seven foot high, bronze statue commemorating this chieftain, is to be unveiled on Donegal Pier in September 2007.
The Old Abbey,where the Annals of the Four Masters (history of Ireland) were compiled between 1632 and 1636 AD.
The 5m Frenchmans anchor, which is 1.5tonnes in weight from the French ship 'Romaine'. Following a sea battle in Donegal Bay, the ship dumped its anchor and fled on sight of the hostile British ships. Ballyboyle island gets its name from the Clan of the O'Boyles who were sub-chieftains of the O'Donnell Clan from Donegal Castle.
The Hassans, the embarkation point of emigrants to Canada and North-America during Famine years 1845-1847. The departure point of the large ships, known as Coffin Ships. The single fare to America was £2.
The old booking office of the WHITE STAR LINE (Titanic) who ran the ships.
The Coastguard Station: This was used as a lookout tower of the British forces during WWII. During the 1940s it was bought by An Oige for use as a hostel.
Murvagh Golf course: A spectacular par 73, championship Golf Course at Murvagh. Playable all year round. Nick Faldo and the Jack Nicklaus family recently played Murvagh.
Rooneys Island: This Island was once inhabited by the O' Maoldory Clan who were Kings of Tir Conaill (Donegal), prior to the O'Donnells.
Belles Isle with the ruins of an old Castle which was the home of Arthur Foster and his wife Annabelle. They were extensive local farmers.
Oyster and mussel farms run by local farmers
Wild life in view includes; cormorants, cranes, ducks, swans, and oyster catchers.
A natural seal colony of approx. 200 seals can be seen. There are two species of seal - Harbour and Atlantic seals. Last year was the first time on record that twins have been born in the wild.
The island of St. Ernans and its famine causeway. This was the home of John Hamilton, famous landlord, who was a 'Ward' of the Duke of Wellington. He controlled no less than 45,000 acres at one time.
Views of the wind farm on Barnesmore Mountain.
Rossylongan Estate, which was owned by Mr Patrick McManus in 1915, who contributed to the foundation of the Irish State. This was the first house in the area to produce its own electricity.
The Abbot Ireland factory produces goods for the medical industry, the most commonly known items being intravenous drips associated with pre- and post-care surgery.
Magherabeg Abbey at point of Tullycullion Hill. This was a Franciscian Friary. The monks were both spiritual and political advisors to the O'Donnell
This map should give you an idea of the geography of the tour. The trip lasts 80 minutes and in that time you travel about 10 miles. Group Bookings are available and special rates are available for larger partys. Tea\Coffee and beer\spirits are available from the bar.
Check out our entertainment guide for live music on our 'booze cruises' and evening tours.
We also cater for parties, wedding anniversaries, day-after-wedding parties, corporate events, educational groups, bus tours and all other types of parties.
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