On Water
The Strangford Lough and Lecale AONB office is based in Downpatrick, covering the whole of the Strangford and Lecale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, taking in much of the Ards Peninsula, Strangford Lough and Lecale.
All our activities on water
Beach Recreation & Swimming
For beach recreation and swimming there are many wonderful and accessible sandy beaches and varied coastline in our area.
Coasteering
Coasteering is a relatively new outdoor activity growing in participation and interest. It combines skills and abiliies of climber, jumper and of course swimmer.
Coastal Rowing
Traditional boat-building and coastal rowing in St Ayles Skiffs
Diving & Snorkeling
Strangford Lough and the Lecale coast are well known as one of Northern Ireland’s top diving destinations, and rightly so!
Kayaking, Canoeing & Paddle boarding
Kayakers and Canoeists have been enjoying the marine waters of Strangford Lough, Lecale and the Outer Ards Coastlines for generations.
Kitesurfing & Windsurfing
Kite and Wind – surfing are very exhiliarting sports harnessing the power of the wind to provide the drive of the board across the water.
Motorised Craft
Sea and fresh water motor craft have a long history of commercial use where goods, activities and or passengers are carried for profit.
Recreational Sea Angling
The sea angling throughout the area divides between shore and boat based activities.
Sailing & Cruising
Boats “under sail” are powered through using the force of the wind. Sailboats occur in many sizes, shapes and configurations of masts, sails and rigging