![f0045-01](https://article-imgs.scribdassets.com/74zj0a65q8cdzl8c/images/fileWKWA5FEL.jpg)
The Shannon Shipping Forecast region lies off the rugged west coast of Ireland and encompasses a varied coastline from cliffs that tower over the Atlantic to sheltered bays that harbour quaint villages and expansive estuaries that serve as gateways to the sea.
Central to the region, and the namesake to this Shipping Forecast, is the Shannon estuary, Ireland’s largest river estuary that stretches from the Shannon’s mouth near Limerick City to the Atlantic Ocean. This natural marvel is not just a vital navigational channel but also an ecological treasure trove, supporting diverse habitats from mudflats and saltmarshes to deep waters, making it special not only for its maritime importance but also for its environmental