A Classic Cruise from Inverness to Banavie

Saturday

Boarding time is 14:00. The barge departs Muirtown and the first set of locks of the week and then the scenic cruise to Dochgarroch. Walking, cycling and relaxing aboard are all excellent options.

Sunday

Setting off from Dochgarroch we explore the small yet beautiful Loch Dochfour before entering the North East end of Loch Ness. From the start you have the chance to explore the water or land by canoe, sailing boat, bike or on foot. In the afternoon the barge will cruise to Foyers pier taking in views of Urquhart castle. If you prefer, cycling along the south shore of Loch Ness is the alternative to cruising on the barge. Foyers bay can be an excellent place to participate in canoeing or sailing. For land lovers there are plenty of walks of varying length and difficulty to suit everyone.

Monday

Making the most of the tranquil beauty of Foyers we will spend the morning continuing our exploration of the area be it by canoe, sailing boat, bike or foot. A walk up to the Falls, on an established path through the pine forest is a must. Leaving around lunchtime we take a scenic cruise to Fort Augustus. Guests can choose to do a road cycle or relax on board and watch the wildlife on the remote coast line and a last chance to spy the elusive Loch Ness Monster. The barge will tie up at the bottom of Fort Augustus locks overnight.

Tuesday

Ascend Fort Augustus staircase of 5 locks during the morning and then tie up at the top of the locks for lunch. This is the last opportunity for souvenir shopping before Banavie and the only place to pick up any forgotten essentials on route. Alternatives to shopping and relaxing on board include exploring the local area by bike or foot. Departing after lunch the barge’s journey heads south west through Kytra lock, Cullochy lock and then out onto Loch Oich, where we will spend the night at anchor. The afternoon route also makes a great walk and an equally good cycle. An alternative walking option maybe offered that allows for fine views of Loch Ness.

Wednesday

The barge will stay at anchor up to lunchtime meaning there will be more time to take in the surroundings and participate in further activities on the water or ashore. In the afternoon we will make our way along the picturesque Laggan Avenue by foot, bike, canoe or barge, another magical part of the journey. The barge will tie up alongside a pontoon overnight at Laggan locks.

Thursday

In the morning we cruise to and anchor at Bunarkaig Bay on Loch Lochy. Guests can relax on board or choose to walk or cycle to the bay. Late morning activities at Bunarkaig may include an opportunity to sail, canoe or explore by foot or bike the Clan Cameron estate. After lunch the barge will weigh anchor and motor the rest of Loch Lochy towards Gairlochy at the south western end of the loch. Again guests can choose to walk, cycle or relax on board. The barge will lie alongside a jetty at Gairlochy overnight.

Friday

The morning cruise is from Gairlochy to Banavie near Fort William. Guests can choose to cycle or relax on board. The barge will tie up at a pontoon just before Neptune’s Staircase.

Guests are fully briefed each day on the cruise plan and activity options. The itinerary above is purely an example with all activities subject to the weather conditions.