2010 Report - Waterways Ireland

26264.2.8 Visit to the Waterways - Comparison with 2004Comparing the 2004 and 2010 visit, it is clear that the majority of userscontinue to be regular users and locals. Recreation and taking abreak/holiday remain the key motivators for usage of the waterways.The top four activities remain unchanged in terms of ranking, howeverthe usage of day boats has moved up the ranking since 2004. Theproportion taking a day trip has increased in 2010.Looking at the level of experience of users participating in the Top Fiveactivities, 63% of those on a private cruiser/barge claim to be veryexperienced or experienced in this activity. Those on a boat trip wereleast experienced with just under one quarter (23%) claiming to be veryexperienced or experienced in this activity.Figure 18: 2004 vs. 2010 Comparison IPurpose of VisitMotivation to Use – Top 5Experience of Users – Top 5200420102004201020042010%%%%%%Regular user3740Recreation/activity*4263Walking4452Holiday maker3426Relaxation/break/holiday3833Private cruiser/barge4663Local2121Natural environment1513Angling4129Visiting friends/relatives39Friends & family1012Hire cruiser/barge1725Day trip12Previous experience42Boat trip4123Other42Base: All waterway users*Figures combined to match 2004 definitions –’ recreation/activity’ figure includes ‘I live locally’. Friendsand family is combined for ‘came with family and friends’ and ‘recommended by family and friends’.10-031982 Waterway Users Research 2010 Report (1st December)