Dochgarroch: Loch Ness and Caledonian Canal 2-Hour Cruise
Hightlight
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English-Speaking
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Group-Friendly
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Non smoking
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Reservations
History
Loch Ness, one of Scotland’s largest and deepest lochs (788 feet), is renowned for the legend of the Loch Ness Monster, Nessie, with sightings dating back to St. Columba’s 6th-century encounter. The loch’s strategic location made it a key route for trade and travel, enhanced by the Caledonian Canal, a 19th-century engineering marvel built by Thomas Telford to connect Scotland’s east and west coasts. Urquhart Castle, a 13th-century fortress on the loch’s shore, was central to medieval clan conflicts and the Wars of Independence, passing between the MacDonalds and the Crown before its 1692 destruction to thwart Jacobite forces.
Aldourie Castle, visible on the cruise, is a 17th-century baronial estate tied to Highland lairds, adding to the region’s historical tapestry. The canal and loch’s blend of natural beauty and human ingenuity, alongside Nessie’s enduring myth, make this cruise a journey through Scotland’s storied past and mysterious allure.
Highlights
- Sail the Caledonian Canal and Loch Ness with views of Urquhart Castle.
- Search for Nessie using onboard Jacobite sonar.
- Enjoy stunning vistas of Aldourie Castle and the Great Glen.
- Relax with Scottish snacks and drinks from the onboard bar.
- Experience a wheelchair-accessible cruise with free Wi-Fi.
Full Description
This 2-hour round-trip cruise departs from Dochgarroch Lock, 5 miles from Inverness, aboard a wheelchair-accessible boat equipped with free Wi-Fi and a bar serving hot and cold Scottish snacks and drinks. Sailing through the man-made Caledonian Canal, you’ll hear live commentary (in English) about the canal’s 19th-century construction and Loch Ness’s mysteries, including the Nessie legend. The onboard Jacobite sonar adds a playful element, scanning the loch’s depths for signs of the elusive monster.
The cruise ventures into Loch Ness, offering breathtaking views of Urquhart Castle’s ruins, a medieval stronghold pivotal in Scotland’s history, and the elegant Aldourie Castle set against the Great Glen’s rugged landscapes. While the boat doesn’t dock, you’ll have ample time to photograph these iconic sites and soak in the tranquil beauty of the loch and canal. The journey returns to Dochgarroch Lock, delivering a perfect blend of history, folklore, and Highland scenery in a compact, immersive experience.
Why Choose This Experience?
This cruise combines the mystique of Loch Ness with the historical significance of the Caledonian Canal and Urquhart Castle, making it ideal for history buffs, nature lovers, and Nessie enthusiasts. The live guide’s storytelling, sonar Nessie hunt, and onboard amenities like Wi-Fi and a bar enhance the experience. Wheelchair-accessible and dog-friendly, it’s welcoming for all ages, with free cancellation up to 2 days in advance for flexibility.
Highly rated for its knowledgeable staff, stunning views, and great value, this 2-hour cruise offers a deeper exploration of Loch Ness than shorter trips, with the added charm of the canal and Aldourie Castle. It’s a relaxing yet engaging way to experience the Highlands’ beauty and legends without a full-day commitment.
What’s Included
- 2-hour round-trip cruise from Dochgarroch Lock.
- Sailing on the Caledonian Canal and Loch Ness.
- Live commentary (English) on history and Nessie legends.
- Jacobite sonar for spotting underwater activity.
- Free Wi-Fi.
- Access to onboard bar for snacks and drinks (not included).
Itinerary
- Depart from Loch Ness by Jacobite – Dochgarroch Lock.
- Sail through the Caledonian Canal with views of Aldourie Castle.
- Cruise into Loch Ness, passing Urquhart Castle (no docking).
- Use sonar to search for Nessie and enjoy commentary.
- Return to Dochgarroch Lock.
Pricing
From $41 per person.
Meeting Point
Meet at Dochgarroch Lock, 5 miles from Inverness on the A82 (What3Words: ///scored.mourner.riverboat). Search “Loch Ness by Jacobite Dochgarroch Lock” on Google Maps. Arrive 20 minutes early; follow signs to the canal from the car park.
How to Get There
- By car: 10-minute drive from Inverness on A82; parking available at Dochgarroch Lock.
- By public transport: Limited bus options (e.g., Stagecoach 917 from Inverness); plan for a 20-30 minute trip.
- By taxi: £10-£15 from Inverness city center.
- Note: Invergordon Cruise Terminal is 28 miles (45 minutes) away; arrange private transport and allow extra time.
Good to Know
What to Bring
- Cash or card for bar purchases (snacks, drinks).
- Warm layers for chilly loch conditions, even in summer.
- Camera for Urquhart and Aldourie Castle photos.
Know Before You Go
- Wheelchair-accessible; suitable for those with restricted mobility.
- Dogs are welcome onboard.
- Cruise runs rain or shine; dress for Scottish weather.
- No docking at Urquhart Castle; views and photos from the boat.
- Arrive 20 minutes early, as the boat won’t wait for latecomers.
- Bar offers Scottish snacks (£2-£5) and drinks (£2-£6).
Reviews
- A brilliant day with stunning views of Urquhart Castle! The guide was fantastic, and the sonar Nessie hunt was great fun—amazing value!
- Fantastic cruise with beautiful scenery and rich history. The staff’s knowledge of Loch Ness and the canal made it unforgettable. Highly recommend!
- Superb 2-hour trip with tranquil loch views and informative commentary. Urquhart Castle was a highlight, and the bar added a cozy touch.
Maps
Video
FAQ's
What historical insights will I learn about Loch Ness and Urquhart Castle?
The live commentary details Loch Ness’s history, from its formation to the Nessie legend, first recorded in 565 AD by St. Columba, and its role as a trade route. You’ll learn about Urquhart Castle’s 13th-century origins, its role in the Wars of Independence, and its destruction in 1692 to prevent Jacobite use. The Caledonian Canal’s 19th-century construction by Thomas Telford is also covered, alongside Aldourie Castle’s laird history. These stories, paired with the loch’s mystique, bring the cruise to life.
What makes the Caledonian Canal unique on this cruise?
The Caledonian Canal, built in the early 1800s by Thomas Telford, is a 60-mile engineering feat linking Scotland’s east and west coasts, with 29 locks, including Dochgarroch. The cruise sails its man-made section, offering views of its serene waters and engineering marvels, contrasting Loch Ness’s natural depth. Commentary highlights its role in maritime trade and its scenic beauty, enhanced by Aldourie Castle’s elegant presence. This unique blend of human ingenuity and Highland landscapes sets the cruise apart from loch-only tours.
Is this cruise suitable for families or those with mobility issues?
The cruise is family-friendly, with Nessie tales and sonar engaging kids, and the 2-hour duration is manageable for all ages. Dogs are welcome, adding to family appeal. It’s fully wheelchair-accessible, suitable for those with restricted mobility, with no steps to board (unlike other Loch Ness cruises). The bar offers kid-friendly snacks and drinks (cash/card needed). The calm route and enclosed cabin ensure comfort, but dress warmly for open-deck viewing. Contact the operator for specific accessibility needs to confirm a smooth experience.
What refreshments are available onboard, and should I bring anything?
The onboard bar offers hot and cold Scottish snacks (e.g., shortbread, crisps, £2-£5) and drinks (e.g., whisky, soft drinks, coffee, £2-£6), payable by cash or card. No outside food is needed, as the bar caters to most tastes. The 2-hour cruise has no external stops, so the bar is your only refreshment option. Enjoy snacks in the cabin or on the deck while viewing Urquhart Castle. Bringing cash ensures quick purchases, enhancing the relaxed, scenic experience.
What happens if I miss the boat or the weather is poor?
The boat departs promptly from Dochgarroch Lock, and late arrivals may miss the 2-hour cruise, as it won’t wait. Arrive 20 minutes early to ensure boarding. If delayed, contact the operator, but joining another cruise depends on availability. The cruise runs rain or shine, with an enclosed cabin for comfort, but bring warm layers for chilly loch conditions. Free cancellation up to 2 days in advance offers flexibility. Plan transport (public options limited) to reach Dochgarroch, 5 miles from Inverness, on time.
