Submitted by Angus Annan on Fri, 13/02/2026 - 08:04

I am not referring to the Arctic char said to be trapped in Loch Lomond since the Ice Age. Ship Club visitors to Belfast Lough can sometimes seem almost as rare, though I may have made that comparison before.

Belfast Lough is a sea lough some 20 miles long, stretching inland from the Irish Sea to the city of Belfast. It is deep and largely free of strong tidal streams. County Antrim lies along the north shore, County Down along the south, and the city of Belfast sits at its head.

On the County Antrim side is Carrickfergus Marina, overlooked by the impressive Norman castle built in 1127. The marina offers excellent facilities for around 300 yachts. On the County Down shore is Bangor Marina, also located in the heart of the town. Nearby at Cultra is the Royal North of Ireland Yacht Club, with an attractive clubhouse where visitors are warmly received and moorings are available by prior arrangement.

The inner harbour areas are shallow and the main channel is dredged. This is a working seaway, regularly used by large commercial vessels and car ferries, so yachts should keep clear of the channel and remain mindful of commercial traffic.

At the head of the lough lies Belfast. Once known internationally for the troubles of the 1970s and 1980s, the city is now at ease with itself. Belfast Marina provides around 60 berths close to the centre, and the Titanic visitor attraction is nearby. The city centre is within easy walking distance, framed by the iconic shipyard cranes and the surrounding green hills.

Belfast retains many fine Edwardian buildings from a period of industrial confidence and prosperity. City Hall, completed in 1908 in white Portland stone, now serves as an exhibition space, telling the story of the city’s development — from its growth along the River Lagan to its industrial prominence — as well as exploring aspects of local culture and social history.

If you keep a boat on the Irish Sea, Belfast Lough is my home water and home city. It is well worth including in your cruising plans.