Your questions answered

What type of boat should I book?
As you can see on our site, we do have quite a range of different boat classes to choose from so it is understandably difficult to make the right choice.
We would recommend you take a boat larger than you actually need - the extra space certainly won't go amiss. For example, if there are 6 adults in your party, opt for Highland Monarch, Highland Commander or Taransay. If possible avoid having to convert the table into a berth. The smaller vessels such as Iona will be cramped if you fill them to capacity. For hiring in Spring and Autumn, we would also recommend that you opt for a boat with an inside steering position.

Is this holiday suitable for me?
Boating on the Caledonian Canal is different from other inland cruising areas. A certain amount of physical activity is involved when locking and berthing, therefore we require that you have a minimum of 2 reasonably fit and active adult crew members in your party. When disembarking from the vessel onto a pontoon, the height difference can be approximately 3ft. This sometimes causes difficulties for elderly or disabled customers. Should this be a problem for any of your crew, or indeed if you have any queries or concerns, please discuss them with us prior to booking.

Do I need to take anything with me?
All of the boats are fully equipped with all galley utensils, crockery, pots & pans. Safety equipment & buoyancy aids are also included. Freshly laundered bed linen is provided - we supply duvets for all fixed berths and sleeping bags for the convertible berths. Towels can be supplied for overseas visitors. Blankets and pillows for everyone are on board. Please advise of any allergies prior to arrival. There is no first aid kit supplied with the boat so please bring your own.
Please also remember to bring gloves as they are very important for rope work!

When is the best time to come to Scotland?
Scotland is beautiful in every season although, as its reputation suggests, it can sometimes be unpredictable. May & June benefit from long daylight hours - in mid June it doesn't get dark until approximately 11.30 pm!
The beautiful colours of Spring delight the customer - the canal banks are lined with yellow of the Broom and Loch Oich is ablaze with Rhodondendrons. During September and October you will be treated to the wonderful colours of Autumn.

How long can I cruise?
The official stopping time is dusk - however cruising is mainly restricted to the British Waterways Caledonian Canal opening times. All of the bridges and locks are operated by keepers and the hours of operation are usually from 08:30 hrs until 17:30 hrs, 7 day operation from Easter to the end of October. Closed for a 1 hour lunch break sometime between 12:00 hrs & 14:00 hrs. These hours of operation are subject to change each year.