Canoeing

The south east coast of Northern Ireland is, in general, a straightforward area for the sea kayaker to enjoy. Along the coastline there are two main areas of more demanding water, namely Strangford Narrows and the mouth of Carlingford Lough, where the waters of these impressive sea loughs meet the Irish Sea.

As such, the trail has a great deal to offer sea canoeists of all abilities; a mixture of sheltered paddling within the loughs and along gentle stretches of coastline, contrasted with tide races and overfalls at the lough entrances to challenge even the most experienced paddler.

The area is abundant in marine wildlife and most of the coastline enjoys special designation status.Canoeists can expect to encounter a wide variety of birdlife, seals and even porpoises and other marine mammals. The trail starts at Strangford village with regular access points along its length to Narrow Water on Carlingford Lough. From here, the historic ship canal leads to Newry city. The trail can be paddled in sections and in either direction.

This island-studded sea lough is the largest inlet in the UK and Ireland covering 80 square nautical miles. It is approached from the Irish Sea through the (5 nautical mile) fast-running tidal narrows which open out into more gentle waters.