R91 G197 B238 C60 M0 Y2 K0 TYPOGRAPHY: Century Gothic Bold Italic Century Gothic Italic
INVITATION TO VISIT THE COOL ROUTE Cool Route partners from around Europe’s NorthWestern Seaboard invite you to cruise the highly scenic coastlines from the South West of Ireland to Tromsø, Norway, via the West of Ireland, Northern Ireland, Scotland, the Faroe Islands and Western Norway. For over 1,500 years, these waters have been voyaged by Celtic Saints and Scholars, Vikings and Traders – Making the Cool Route one of the most historic sea routes in the world. While the Route’s coastlines are plentiful in small villages and towns, one is never far from an international airport, hospital and other modern facilities. If you are looking for a change of scenery, it’s a photographer’s paradise and the route also has a great deal to offer in terms of rich sea-life, great organic foods, music, culture and heritage of ancient Celtic and Norse peoples.
WWW.SAILCOOLROUTE.EU The Cool Route is a registered trademark ©
A key consideration at present is the security of your vessel, its guests and crew. The Cool Route offers total peace of mind in this regard, both while at sea and also ashore. Since 2015, there has been a significant increase in the numbers of super-yachts visiting different areas of the Cool Route. Many of these vessels have remained for several weeks allowing guests to savour the many interesting aspects of these coastlines. We therefore are very pleased to invite you to visit and experience all that the Cool Route offers.
LEAD PARTNER
FAROE ISLANDS
NORWAY
SCOTLAND
NORTHERN IRELAND
IRELAND
CORK AND KERRY The Cool Route Cork and Kerry coastline is fortunate to be directly influenced by the Gulf Stream, creating a subtropical feel to many areas and a variety of plants and creatures which are usually only found at more southerly latitudes. This is a coastline of small towns and villages, filled with history, culture, music and many things to do and see. An increasing number of large superyachts have made return visits. There are no personal or vessel security issues. The area is extremely scenic with deep sheltered bays, an abundance of tranquilly and a photographers paradise. Quality organic food is a signature feature of the area, with many exceptional seafood restaurants. Cork and Kerry Airports are within easy reach of the coast and offer international connectivity. The Irish Cruising Club’s Sailing Directions for the South and West Coasts of Ireland, comprehensively cover this cruising area. Above: Cork Harbour with Royal Cork Yacht Club marina in the foreground
Contact Gavin Deane Royal Cork Yacht Club M: +353 21 483 1023 E: gavin@royalcork.com
• Iconic waypoints such as Roches Point, the Old Head of Kinsale and the Fastnet Rock • Many historic harbours such as Cork – last Port of Call of the RMS Titanic • Cork City Marina, plus an abundance of islands and other destinations along the coast • Royal Cork Yacht Club 1720 Crosshaven – Oldest Yacht Club in the World – Celebrating 300th anniversary in 2020 • Irelands Great Food Coast with pubs, pints and music • Good Air Access, high levels of SAR and many major hospitals • Fly-Drive – Great golf courses with helicopter access • Whales and dolphins, palm trees, clean water, fresh air and a pleasant climate • Gateway to Wild Atlantic Way & Ireland’s Ancient East • Highest levels of personal and vessel security
Top: View from Skellig Micheal, Kerry Middle: Small Cruise Liner at the Port of Cork Bottom: Cork Harbour
DONEGAL County Donegal on the Cool Route is home to some of the most dramatic and dazzling coastal views in the world! There are several options for your cruise itinerary. Killybegs Harbour is known as the gateway to Sliabh Liag one of Donegal’s three Signature Points on the Wild Atlantic Way, which is an epic journey of discovery along Ireland’s Western seaboard, and Greencastle Harbour is a favourite stop off in Lough Foyle. Plan your visit on www.govisitdonegal.com
Above: Malin Head, Donegal Below: Fanad lighthouse in Summer
Contact Joy Harron Marine Marketing Development Officer Donegal Tourism Donegal Public Service Centre Drumlonagher, Donegal Town Co. Donegal, F94 DK6C T: +353 (74) 972 4431 M: +353 (87) 061 9360
KILLYBEGS AND GREENCASTLE: • Killybegs and Greencastle have everything you need for your cruise journey including maintenance and service options. Harbour Masters and local tourist information office representatives, Killybegs Information Center (www.killybegs.ie) and Visit Inishowen (www.visitinishowen.com) can help with planning your trip to Donegal. There are also a number of other Harbours to visit along the coast Rathmullan, Buncrana and Fanad plus some island hopping opportunities including Tory and Arranmore. • Killybegs multi-functional port featuring a deep water all-weather harbour and a new small craft berthing facility Most northerly point on Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way and home to Donegal’s 3 Signature Discovery Points – Malin Head, Fanad Head and Sliabh Liag. MALIN HEAD: • Malin Head is located on the Inishowen Peninsula, the most northerly point of the island of Ireland. Home of the basking shark and many other species, viewing point for the Northern Lights and chosen as the film location for the next Star Wars movie. FANAD HEAD: • This beach was voted 2nd most beautiful beach in the world a few years ago. A haven for water sport enthusiasts, golfers and walkers alike. Fanad Lighthouse is the second most Northerly lighthouse in the Republic of Ireland and locals say that it is slightly higher than the Eiffel Tower. SLIABH LIAG CLIFFS: • The Sliabh Liag cliffs are amongst the highest sea cliffs in Europe with stunning panoramic views across Donegal Bay.
Left: Clipper Race visits Greencastle Right: Sliabh Liag Cliffs
• Lough Swilly in Donegal is steeped in maritime history. It is a glacial fjord/sea inlet lying between the western side of the Inishowen Peninsula and the Fanad Peninsula. Lough Swilly is one of only three glacial fjords in Ireland. • Extensive selection of hiking paths & trails • Greencastle Pier featuring Inishowen Maritime Museum & Planetarium www.inishowenmaritime.com • 13 Blue Flag beaches and a vast amount of hidden coves and sandy shores to discover • St. John’s Point is home to one of Donegal’s most famous lighthouses and is known as an excellent location for those who enjoy diving • Donegal is home to Glenveagh National Park and Castle • Traditional music of County Donegal is world-famous. The county also possesses a rich heritage with, literally, hundreds of historical and heritage sites dotted throughout the county. • Errigal Mountain – highest peak in Donegal • The Donegal Gaeltacht is rich in heritage and folklore and has a strong sense of its own identity and uniqueness where Irish is the living-language. • Festivals & Events, whatever your interest, there´s a festival for you! Comprehensive calendar of events is available on www.donegalevents.ie • Donegal provides a plethora of activities – Golf, fishing, walking, horse riding and a vast range of marine leisure and watersports throughout the county. • The Donegal Food Coast Trail offers fantastic traditional cuisine with a wide variety of locally produced food and artisan products • Opportunities to view the Northern Lights – Aurora Borealis
DERRY LONDONDERRY Located in the stunning North West of Ireland, the charming city of Derry~Londonderry is renowned as one of the finest Walled Cities in Europe, full of fascinating history and culture, located on the banks of Lough Foyle. This vibrant destination offers a unique combination of rich heritage and a buzzing social scene – Derry was named as ‘Friendliest Destination in Northern Ireland’ so you will be guaranteed the warmest of welcomes! Uncover the many cultural delights on offer; the city centre is located a short walk from the marina, here you can take a trip back in time and discover over 400 years of history strolling along the historic 17th Century Walls, home to one of the largest collections of Cannon in Europe.
Contact Aoife Mc Hale Visit Derry Visitor Information Centre 44 Foyle Street, Derry BT48 6AT
Above: Clipper Yachts on River Foyle
T: +44 28 7126 7284 E: aoife.mchale@visitderry.com W: www.visitderry.com
Gateway to the Northwest The stunning Causeway coastal route sweeps eastward from the Foyle Estuary along the North Coast taking in major visitor attractions such as the UNESCO World Heritage Site Giant’s Causeway, Bushmills Distillery and Carrick-A-Rede Rope Bridge. To the South and East of the City is the scenic Sperrin AONB with its dramatic landscapes and mountainous terrain that is home to the Ulster American Folk Park. And the hidden gem of Strabane-bound by the scenic beauty of the Sperrin Mountains and resting at the meeting point of three rivers – The Mourne, the Finn and the Foyle. Derry~Londonderry is the perfect location to start your journey taking in the stunning landscapes of Donegal and the ‘Wild Atlantic Way’ where you can experience the untamed west coast of Ireland, and start an adventure you’ll never want to end. With accolades including • UK City of Culture 2013, • 4th Best City Lonely Plant 2013 • Foodies Town Awards 2015 & 2016, • Destination Delicious • Best Halloween Destination in the World USA Today The region is home to World Class Events, such as The Banks of the Foyle Halloween Festival, City of Derry Jazz Festival and the Award Winning LegenDerry Food Festival. Since 2012 the city has been known as the best Host Port Destination for the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race. Top: Sperrin Mountains Middle: Derry Peace Bridge Bottom: Giant’s Causeway
SCOTLAND The Cool Route in Scotland is divided into 4 sections. These areas are: • Argyll & The Islands • The Firth of Clyde • Skye & the North West • Orkney & Shetland Each area is very different and offers visiting yachts a myriad of opportunities.
From sandy beaches to distillery tours and golf there is something on offer in each region that will keep even the most discerning owner or crew occupied, whilst safe in the knowledge that there are marinas, sheltered anchorages and service facilities along the route. Visiting vessels will be assured of the warmest of Scottish welcomes.
Above: Fife Regatta, Marc Turner (PFM Pictures) Below: Greenock
Contact Craig Latimer Blue Sea Consulting LLP James Watt Dock East Hamilton Street Greenock, PA15 2UT Scotland M: +44 78 9026 1145 T: +44 14 7572 9838 E: craig.latimer@blueseamarinas.co.uk W: www.blueseamarinas.co.uk
• Much of the Cool Route is within driving distance from Scotland’s airports: Glasgow International Airport, Prestwick and Edinburgh • Deep water and sheltered moorings readily available • Some of the best seafood in the world • Busy summer activity schedule from Highland Games
Troon yacht haven
to Powerboat racing • Economic layover locations • Whisky distilleries - why not arrive by boat? • Golf excursions - some of the best links courses are on or within a short distance of Cool Route stopovers • Vessel service and maintenance centres
Troon yacht haven
Brodick Bay Arran
Location
Address Line
Phone +(44)
Website
Berths
Visitor Berths
Campbelltown Harbour Marina
Campbelltown
01586 552552
www.argyll-bute.gov.uk
Port Bannatyne
Marina Road
01700 503116
www.portbannatynemarina.co.uk
30
30
Troon Yacht Haven
Troon
01292 315553
www.yachthavens.com
400
Clyde Marina
Ardrossan
01294 607077
www.clydemarina.com
Largs Yacht Haven
Largs
01475 675333
www.yachthavens.com
Portavadie Marina
Tighnabruaich
01700 811075
Kip Marina
Inverkip
James Watt Dock Marina
Greenock
Holy Loch Marina
Visitor Moorings
Max Length
Max Draught (m)
50
50
3
285
20
30+
5
730
20+
40
3
www.portavadiemarina.com
230
60
25
4
01475 521485
www.kipmarina.co.uk
600
40
36
3.5
01475 729838
www.jameswattdockmarina.co.uk
100
8
60
5.2
Sandbank
01369 701800
www.holylochmarina.co.uk
250
30+
Rhu Marina
Rhu
01436 820238
http://www.quaymarinas.com/ our-marinas/rhu-marina/
235
65
35
30
5
Ardfern Marina
Ardfern
01852 500247
www.ardfernyacht.co.uk
95
20+
100
25
3.5
Craobh Marina
Lochgilphead
01852 500222
www.craobhmarina.co.uk
Dunstaffnage Marina
Oban
08456 404050
www.dunstaffnagemarina.co.uk
Stranraer Harbour
Stranraer
07734 073421
DGFirst-Wigtown@dumgal.gov.uk
Tobermory Marina
Tobermory
07917 832497
www.tobermoryharbour.co.uk
30
10
Corpach Sea Loch
Corpach
01397 772249
www.scottishcanals.co.uk
Scrabster Harbour
Corpach
01847 892779
www.scrabster.co.uk
Wick Harbour
Wick
01955 602030
www.wickharbour.co.uk
27
2.3
54 Y
5.5
150
45
45
80
12
25
The locations highlighted in blue (13) are definite locations suitable to receive this type of vessels; in grey, potential locations (5) have been also identified as at the moment these are limited by physical factors and only suitable to a certain extent.
PORT OF Tร RSHAVN The Port of Tรณrshavn is the port of the Capital of the Faroe Islands. Torshavn is named after the old Nordic God of Thunder Thor, and literally means the harbour of Thor. Just as Thor was the strongest guardian against evil, Tรณrshavn offers its Harbour and facilitites as a shelter and safehaven for travellers arriving by the sea.
Above: Explore the beautiful landscape when cruising the Faroes Below: Visit the charming old town in Tรณrshavn
Contact Annfinn Hjelm Eystara bryggja T: +298 311762 E: port@torshavn.fo W: www.portofthorshavn.com
• Amazing atmosphere at the guest pontoon • Vivid boating environment • Great dining options • Repair facilities available • Provisions within reach • Fascinating nature experience
Top: Boating life in downtown Tórshavn Middle: Discover the rich bird life in the Faroes, Bottom: Exploring the Faroes by yacht is not for the faint-hearted, but a thrilling once in a lifetime experience
NORWAY Norway, despite its northern latitude possesses a very sheltered cruising ground thanks to the almost continuous line of offshore islands, sounds and fjords offering protection on the route. Most of the main settlements are coastal and almost everyone has a ferry or other landing place which can accept yachts.
On the coast of Norway you can travel through the attractions instead of travelling to them, with the Geirangerfjord and Nærøyfjord being UNESCO World Heritage sites in themselves, as is the old harbour in Bergen. The ever-changing landscape – the mountains, glaciers, fjords and waterfalls – has attracted guests from around the world for centuries.
Contact Guttorm Flatabø Vestlandsforsking Box 163, 6851 Sogndal Norway E: gfl@vestforsk.no T: +47 400 60 972 W: www.fjordnorway.com Above: Superyacht A in Solvorn, Sognefjord Below: Geirangerfjord with the Seven Sisters Waterfall
• Sail through UNESCO World Heritage Sites Nærøyfjorden and Geirangerfjorden, or visit them directly with your yacht at Bryggen in Bergen, and Urnes stave church at the Sognefjord. • In a country where sailing used to be the easiest form of transport, points of landing are plentiful. • National Geographic Traveler magazine has called the fjords “the world’s most iconic destination” • Frequented by some of the most luxurious yachts in the world, such as Andrei Melnichenko’s “A”. • With hundreds of points of landing, and more than 35 Cruise Norway destinations, finding shelter and assistance will not be a problem. • Local food production is growing every year, and the fjord region is famous for its fruit production, local beers and the worlds best cheese (2016) comes from the coast just south of Trondheim (Tingvoll). • With the second longest coast line of the world, privacy will not be hard to find. • A living landscape where humans and nature live in mutual dependence. Societies that co-exist with the landscape. A landscape tailor-made for exploration.
Top: Sogndal, Sognefjord Middle: Skiing with view on Sognefjord Bottom: Luster branch of the Sognefjord
COOL ROUTE
The Cool Route project investigates the practical logistics and business potential to establish a bi-directional yacht cruising route along the offshore areas of the Northern Periphery Area, stretching from the South of Ireland, to UK (Northern Ireland and Western Scotland) and onwards to Norway and Faroe Islands. As an eco-tourism product, exploiting the natural resources of the zone in a manner that is sustainable and enviromentally viable; this new sea route will be marketed internationally and will have a common branding, booking, and information system. The project will also address the future legacy of its work; by ensuring that the Cool Route continues as a viable self-financing economic entity, following the completion of the project.
FIND US AT:
E: info@sailcoolroute.eu W: www.sailcoolroute.eu /eucoolroute @eucoolroute #eucoolroute
PROJECT PARTNERS