Self-Drive on Lough Erne: Four Hours Around Enniskillen and Devenish

JETTY BOAT RENTAL FIELD GUIDE

Self-Drive on Lough Erne: Four Hours Around Enniskillen and Devenish

A four-hour self-drive boat rental from Erne Boat Hire in Jetty lets groups of up to six explore Enniskillen, Devenish Island and Lough Erne wildlife; this guide explains what to expect and what’s provided.

Self-Drive on Lough Erne: Four Hours Around Enniskillen and Devenish.

Duration
Contact operator
Location
Jetty
Operator
Erne Boat Hire Ltd
Category
Boat Rental
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

From a family-run hut beside the red boats in Jetty, Erne Boat Hire offers four-hour self-drive rentals that put Lough Erne’s island town of Enniskillen and Devenish Island within easy reach. The purpose-built rental boats are simple to handle, carry up to six adults, and come with buoyancy aids, maps and fuel; tuition is available for inexperienced boaters. The trip is an accessible way to view wildlife, circumnavigate Enniskillen and visit the lake’s historic sites.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

THE ROUTE

Enniskillen and Devenish Island by Boat

The rental is designed for exploration: Devenish Island is about 30 minutes away and Enniskillen can be circumnavigated during the outing, letting you visit historic sites and stretch the legs on shore.

THE PICNIC

Bring a Picnic; Store It Easily

Boats have two large storage lockers suitable for picnic items, making it straightforward to pack food and drinks for a relaxed four‑hour outing on the lake.

THE PRACTICALS

Easy to Drive, Family Friendly

Purpose-built for hire and powered by modest engines, the boats are easy to drive and suitable for all ages, with buoyancy aids provided and tuition available for those who need it.

What the day feels like

What It Feels Like to Self-Drive on Lough Erne

A four-hour self-drive rental is a compact, freedom-filled way to see Lough Erne: set off from Jetty, follow mapped channels past waterside hotels and theatres, make a shore stop at Devenish or Enniskillen, and return after a gentle cruise that accommodates wildlife viewing and a picnic. Boats are built for small groups and the operator can provide instruction to first-time drivers.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this rental suits—and who should consider alternatives.

1
Families with childrenSuitable for family groups: the boats accommodate up to six adults, are easy to drive and buoyancy aids are provided for safety.
2
Small groups and friendsA four-hour rental is tailored for small groups of up to six, offering room for picnic gear in onboard storage lockers.
3
First-time boatersGood for beginners—tuition can be provided on request and the boats are purpose-built for the rental market and straightforward to handle.
4
Low-impact sightseersIdeal for travelers who want wildlife viewing and shoreline history without strenuous activity; the trip is driven rather than physically demanding.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

What to Bring

Bring weather-appropriate clothing and any picnic supplies you want to carry; boats have two large storage lockers for picnic items. Buoyancy aids, maps and fuel are provided by the operator.

On-boat Gear & Support

Buoyancy aids and maps are provided; if required, tuition can be given to inexperienced boaters.

Timing & Logistics

The standard rental duration is four hours; be prepared for different weather conditions and please arrive on time.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

How long is the rental?

The standard rental duration is four hours.

How many people fit on a boat?

Each purpose-built rental boat can comfortably hold up to six adults.

What is provided with the boat?

Buoyancy aids, maps and fuel are provided; boats also have two large storage lockers for picnic items and tuition can be given if required.

Are dogs allowed?

The operator is dog friendly.

Where do I meet to start the rental?

Meet at the hut beside the red boats in Jetty.

Is instruction available for inexperienced drivers?

Yes—tuition can be provided to inexperienced boaters on request.