WHO WE ARE
Row the Erne is a community group promoting the Erne as a place to enjoy. All are welcome on the currach.
MISSION STATEMENT
Row the Erne connects people on the water, promoting wellness and fun.
BUILDING THE MENAPIAN CURRACH
A group of volunteers built the Menapian in 2014. It took three months / 2,500 volunteer hours to build the currach. Over 70 people of all ages and abilities contributed. We were led by Olivia Cosgrove, and were guided by boat builder Pat Hughes and local carpenter Kieran Swift.
OUR HISTORY
Our currach gets its name from the Menaii Tribe
Menapii Tribe
Fir Manach or Fear Manach means ‘Men of Manach’. The only known Celtic tribe named specifically on Ptolemy’s map of Ireland from 150 A.D was the Menapii. They located their first colony on the Leinster coast around 216 B.C. Later they settled around Lough Erne, becoming known as the Fir Manach, and so giving their name both to Fermanagh and Monaghan.
OUR DIRECTORS
Barbara
ChairpersonI joined Row the Erne six years ago. It has been a great way to socialise & unwind. Being out on water is good craic and is very special.
Emma
TreasurerAlthough I've lived in Fermanagh most of my life, I had no experience out on the water. Then, in July 2023, I booked a short row on the Menapian. Once I was out on the water, I immediately thought, 'Why haven't I done this before!' I was hooked. The feeling from being out on the water after a busy day with a lovely group of people is fantastic.
Tom
SecretaryI joined Row the Erne for my first row in 2023. Seeing Fermanagh from the water has been refreshing and immensely enjoyable. Developing connections and new friendships within our rowing community is so rewarding. Being out doors in our natural environment, doing physical activity is great for the mind body and soul.
Ann
Committee MemberI joined Row the Erne in 2023. I arrived to a group of strangers who have become really good friends. It's a great way to relax, unwind & enjoy beautiful Fermanagh, where safety & respect for the water are a priority. My granddaughter comes out with me sometimes. She loves helping out & she is getting great at the Rowing!
Martin
Committee MemberI had no experience of rowing when I came to Row the Erne but I wanted to give it a try. I’ve continued to row weekly and the friendships and health benefits are great. I’m also learning new skills & the scenery on the rows is very therapeutic.
Sheila
Committee MemberI look forward to my trips on Lough Erne with Row the Erne. Its a great way to enjoy the water safely, get some exercise and have some banter and good fun with others.
James
Committee MemberI joined Row the Erne in 2025 and outings on the Menapian quickly became an integral part of my weekly planning! Being on the waters of Lough Erne is my happy place and to be there with just the sounds of the oars and the craic along with nature’s backdrop makes it a great experience every time.
Fionnuala
Committee MemberI went out on my 1st row in autumn 2024 as a complete novice and loved it from the off. Exercise, fresh air, that beautiful aspect from the water and of course lots of chat and good craic. Also spotting kingfishers is a highlight!
Pascal
Committee MemberI had my first row in 2023 and now try to get out as much as I can. It’s good to get out on the water and see Fermanagh from a different perspective, meeting new and likeminded people and being involved in a great local community group.
Olivia
FounderI enjoy rowing and skippering with Row the Erne. There have been many highlights so far. A favourite for me is landing the Menapian currach on Skellig Michael off the south west coast of Kerry in 2019.
Elected Committee RTE 2026
CommitteeNewly Elected Committee of RTE 2026