General Information & FAQs

Getting to us

Where is the meeting point?

Your pre-arrival email will specify directions and the exact location for your White River Charter Experience embarkation point. Please note parking options below. We depart from two separate locations in Coleraine, both have toilet facilities available, either:

Coleraine Marina
Portstewart Road,
Coleraine,
BT52 1EY

The Cutts Pontoon
40 Castleroe Road,
Coleraine,
BT51 3RL

Where can I park?

Depending on your embarkation point specified on your pre-arrival email, there is free car parking near both departure points. Please arrive to the pontoon at least 10 mins prior to departure time.

For Coleraine Marina

For your embarkation point at Coleraine Marina, the marina carpark is right next to the pontoons on Portstewart Road, Coleraine, BT52 1EY.

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Directions from Coleraine Marina Carpark to The Pontoon:

Once parked, make your way to the entrance gate to the pontoons.
The Crew will meet you there.

For The Cutts Pontoon

For your embarkation point at The Cutts Pontoon, the nearest parking is only a 5 minute walk: Somerset Riverside Park, 38 Castleroe Road, Coleraine, BT51 3RL.

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Directions from Somerset Riverside Park to The Cutts pontoon:

Once parked, make your way to the car park entrance
Turn left onto the public footpath along the Castleroe Road.
Turn left at the Waterways Ireland (blue and white) sign and walk towards the river.
Continue around the Waterways Ireland office buildings (on your right) and make your way along the lock gate (on your left) to the pontoon where we will be ready to welcome you onboard.

Can I get to you via public transport?

As a business committed to sustainability, we value responsible practices and encourage eco-conscious travel. We are located in Coleraine and can be easily reached via public transport, with the nearest bus stop, “Ballycairn, Marina (UUC)” conveniently located.

Public transport links:

Train

Coleraine is accessible by train on the Belfast – Londonderry service (connecting Portrush and Castlerock). The nearest railway station is Coleraine, which is a short bus or taxi ride to our location at Coleraine Marina.
Visit translink.co.uk for pricing and timetables.

Bus

Translink Ulsterbus service has frequent routes serving the Triangle (Coleraine -Portstewart- Portrush)
Bus 140a from Coleraine Station has a bus stop conveniently located near the marina.
Visit translink.co.uk for pricing and timetables.

Bus 140a from Coleraine Station to Ballycairn, Marina (UUC).

Stopping at:
Coleraine, Rose Gardens
Coleraine, Millburn Road
Boulevard,
Boulevard Bann View Place, Portstewart Road
Marina, Ballycairn 64 Portstewart Road (UUC)

By Bicycle

The National Cycle Network Route 93 connects Portstewart to Coleraine via the Portstewart Road and the marina.

White River Charter FAQs

What is the maximum number of passengers can you accommodate?

Do I need to wear a lifejacket?

No. Due to the nature of the boat it is not mandatory to wear a lifejacket or buoyancy aid while onboard MV Kingfisher. We do carry lifejackets for all our passengers and have a full range of safety equipment onboard. We comply with the relevant Marine and Coastguard agency (MCA) regulations and adhere to the highest health and safety standards.

Disabled Access

We welcome guests with disabilities. However, due to the nature of the vessel we are restricted in the type of adaptations we can make. We carry a range of safety equipment onboard including life jackets for every passenger. Optional personal audio equipment is also available on request. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you wish to discuss your requirements.

Can I bring my dog?

No, unfortunately animals are not permitted onboard except for registered care/guide dogs which must be notified to the team in advance of your booking.

Can you fish from the boat?

No. MV Kingfisher has retired from fishing duties.

What should I wear / What do I bring?

Suitable clothing for the changeable Irish weather (layers that can be added to or taken off and preferably waterproof).

Sturdy footwear is recommended for walking on pontoons and getting in and out of the boat and for walking rough terrain within the Mountsandel site.

What if the trip is cancelled or amended by WRC?

These experiences take place in the natural environment and we may have to amend or cancel experiences due to the unsafe weather and river conditions. From time to time the navigation at specific locations along the river is restricted by government authorities. If we need to amend a tour itinerary, we will notify you in advance and inform you of the new meeting point. If we are forced to cancel, we will reschedule or offer refunds in these situations.

Can I book the whole boat for a private party/event/excursion?

Yes.

Outside of our scheduled experiences we are also available for private charters. We will work with you to create a bespoke boat experience, crafted to your specific requirements. Check out our Private Experiences, and get in touch.

Can I bring my own food/drink?

No. Passengers are advised that they are not permitted to bring their own food or alcoholic beverages onboard scheduled river trips.

Tea and coffee and light refreshments are provided on our scheduled trips.

If you are booking a private charter, please get in touch to discuss your requirements.

Why can’t I book The Spirit of the Bann on your website?

The Spirit of the Bann Tasting Experiences are led by our trusted collaborators at Causeway Coast Foodie Tours. This experience can be booked directly from their website by clicking here: www.causewaycoastfoodietours.com

Do you offer corporate/business trips?

Yes – exclusive use of our classic vessel provides an intimate and personalised experience that is perfect for small groups, corporate outings or private celebrations (up to 12 persons per trip). Please contact us to discuss your requirements.

Do you offer educational/school trips?

These can be arranged outside of our scheduled and private charters, contact us to discuss your requirements.

Still got a question?

If you’re still unsure about something or want to ask us a question about our Private Experiences, please get in touch.