| Starting Port |
Starting Time |
Finishing Port |
Finishing Time |
Number of Nights |
| Oban |
17:00 |
Inverness |
10:00 |
6 |
Voyage Summary
This voyage is all about exploring the stunning scenery and the fascinating history of Scotland as we wind our way through the Caledonian Canal from one side of Scotland to the other. A relaxed pace is guaranteed, as is Irene’s high standards of hospitality.
Sailing Highlights
This voyage is less about the sailing and more about the experience. Much will be done under motor due to the constraints of the canal but we’ll certainly get the sails up between Oban and Fort William and across Loch Ness itself.
There will be plenty of opportunity to get involved. There will be frequent locks to negotiate, including the fabulous Neptune’s Staircase, and plenty of opportunity to take the helm and guide Irene along her way.
Itinerary Details
Highlights of the Caledonian Canal (from East to West) include:
Neptune’s Staircase
A staircase of 8 locks which raises boats more than 60 feet. This marks the start of the Caledonian Canal.
Ben Nevis
The tallest mountain in Great Britain overlooks the Caledonian Canal at the eastern end and dominates the magnificent scenery as you pass from Corpach to Gairlochy. The mountains and forest scenery provide a stunning backdrop to the canal.
Loch Lochy
Loch Lochy is the first of the natural lochs which are linked by the man-made canals. Plenty of moorings for boats along the length of this lock. At one end is the little village of Gairlochy whilst the other end plays host to Laggan.
Loch Oich
Between Lochs Lochy and Oich is a short stretch of man-made canal which incorporates the Laggan Lochs. Once through these, it’s onto the open expanse of Loch Oich. The stunning mountain and forest scenery continues as you past Invergarry Castle and onto the village of Aberchalder and the Bridge of Oich.
Loch Ness
Some more man-made canal links Lock Oich and Loch Ness. Before entering the loch, however, there is another staircase to negotiate at Fort Augustus. The lock keepers do a great job of operating these so it’s just a matter of negotiating Irene through them. Fort Augustus is a charming town, if a little preoccupied with a certain marine legend! It’s well worth a stop and a fantastic place to pick up the odd souvenier.
Loch Ness is almost 40km long and is a wide expanse of water. Plenty of opportunity to get the sails up and have Irene flying along. Obviously, a careful watch for Nessie will be essential! There are a number of towns and villages on the banks of the loch and the historic Castle Urquhart also keeps a weather eye of passing boats.
Inverness:
Inverness is a short hop from the western end of Loch Ness. The canal links the loch with the North Sea although we’ll be completing our voyage before entering the Moray Firth. Inverness is a fantastic city and well worth some time exploring. The ancient cathedral and the castle being amongst the highlights.
