The first recreation since the 6th century of St. Ninnidh's voyage was a great success as rowers enjoyed the leisurely journey from Knockninny to Inishmacsaint.

Rowers and supporters gathered at Knockninny Quay in preparation for the start of the voyage on Saturday May 18 where the Very Reverend Father Gerard Alwill, Derrylin gave a blessing and encouragement for the onward journey. The crews aboard the traditional Lough Erne Cots rowed towards Carrybridge where they were joined by additional rowers for the journey to Bellanaleck. On arrival at Bellanaleck, the rowers were welcomed with tea and coffee accompanied by delicious tray bakes and sandwiches which helped the rowers restore their energy for their journey to Enniskillen, the final leg of the first day of St. Ninnidh's voyage. On Sunday May 19, the rowers left Enniskillen at 8.30am and continued towards Devenish Island, stopping at Trory, where members of Belturbet Rowing Club joined the crews for the final leg of the voyage to Inishmacsaint. The whole fleet arrived safely at Inishmacsaint just after noon.

Organised by the charity Lough Erne Heritage, St. Ninnidh's voyage was recreated as part of the ERNE Programme which was made possible by the National Lottery Heritage Fund award, thanks to the money raised by National Lottery players.

Brian Osborne, a Trustee of Lough Erne Heritage said: "Thank you to all who actively took part on this historic voyage. The weather was with us and everyone enjoyed themselves, a great example of team effort by the

Lough Erne Heritage members who contributed so much to this event and thanks in no small measure to all the willing volunteers who gave their time and endurance to make this project become the significant event that it is."

He continued: "Well done indeed to all the rowers young and old. Thank you to Michael McPhilips who accompanied Lough Erne Heritage on both days taking stills and moving images documenting the St. Ninnidh voyage."

Mr. Osborne added: "Lough Erne Heritage trustee Liam Boyle came up with the inspirational idea of attempting this voyage and I for one am glad that we as a team made it a reality."