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13 Scenic Boat Trips in Scotland

From thrilling, high-speed RIB trips and serene canal boat journeys that are perfect for a family day out, to epic excursions out to some of the remotest islands in the country, there are a wide variety of boat experiences that are ideal for an unforgettable day trip in Scotland.

Take a look at our pick of 13 amazingly scenic boat tours in Scotland, from short wildlife-spotting excursions to longer Scottish island cruises.

Bass Rock North Berwick, East Lothian

The Bass Rock seen from the Seafari Explorer - Seabird Cruise

© VisitScotland / Kenny Lam

• Depart: Scottish Seabird Centre, North Berwick
• Cost per adult: £24 – £135
• Length of trip: 1 hour – half day

Located in the middle of the Firth of Forth, the Bass Rock is the remains of an ancient volcano and is now home to a huge population of gannets – over 150,000 in peak season. Book your boat trip with the  Scottish Seabird Centre  to see the rock and its resident bird populations up close.

Isle of May Anstruther, Fife or North Berwick, East Lothian

View of the Isle of May Cliffs showing the South Horn lighthouse.

• Depart: Anstruther in Fife or North Berwick in East Lothian
• Isle of May Ferry , Anstruther: £38
• Isle of May Boat Trips , Anstruther: £36
• Seafari Adventures Forth , North Berwick: £48 (also includes visit to the Bass Rock)
• Length of trip: half day

Located at the eastern edge of the Firth of Forth, the beautiful Isle of May is home to a huge variety of seabirds who visit the island over the summer months to breed, including puffins, guillemots and razorbills.

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Forth Bridges and Inchcolm Island Firth of Forth

The Forth Bridge in South Queensferry at sunset

© VisitScotland / Kenny Lam, all rights reserved

• Depart: Hawes Pier, South Queensferry
• Maid of the Forth : £20 (includes boat trip and landing)
• Forth Boat Tours : £20 boat trip and £6 landing
• Length of trip: 3 hours (includes 1.5 hours on the island)

See the stunning Forth Bridges from a new angle on a boat tour from South Queensferry out to Inchcolm Island. On your 1.5 hour visit to the island you can see the well-preserved architecture of Inchcolm Abbey, which dates from 1235, and the lovely views around the island.

Eyemouth RIB Trips Eyemouth

St Abbs Head Lighthouse

• Depart: Eyemouth
• Cost per adult: £25

Explore the rugged coastline around Eyemouth and St Abbs on a high-speed RIB boat with Eyemouth RIB Trips – guaranteed to get your adrenaline pumping! See the picturesque coves and caves and keep your eyes peeled for seals and seabirds.

Canal Boating on the Falkirk Wheel Falkirk

The Falkirk Wheel

• Depart: Falkirk Wheel
• Cost per adult: £14.50
• Length of trip: 50 minutes

Take in the views as you’re swept high into the air aboard your canal boat on The Falkirk Wheel. This magnificent engineering marvel is the world’s only rotating boat lift and was ingeniously designed to connect the Forth & Clyde Canal with the Union Canal.

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• Pets Welcome
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Lady of the Lake on Loch Katrine Aberfoyle

The steamship Sir Walter Scott trails a wake across Loch Katrine, past islands and steep, wooded hills.

© VisitScotland / Kenny Lam, all rights reserved.

• Depart: Trossachs Pier, Loch Katrine
• Cost per adult: Starting from £15
• Length of trip: 1 hour

Hop aboard the  Lady of the Lake  to soak up the stunning views around Loch Katrine, located in the magnificent Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park. Named after Sir Walter Scott’s famous poem, enjoy an unforgettable journey where you’ll be treated to historic tales of the loch’s past, see stunning mountains in all their glory and catch a glimpse of the resident wildlife in action.

Three Isle Tour from Isle of Skye Elgol, Isle of Skye

Elgol, Isle of Skye

• Depart: Elgol, Isle of Skye
• Cost per adult: £72
• Length of trip: 3.5 – 4 hours

Search for wildlife, such as dolphins, whales, eagles and puffins, as you tour three unique Inner Hebridean islands with AquaXplore. The Puffin Run/Three Isles Tour visits the enchanting islands of Soay, Canna and Rum. You can choose between a high-speed AquaXplore RIB or the more traditional island cruiser.

Staffa Mull

Staffa National Nature Reserve

• Staffa Tours : Isle of Iona and Fionnphort on the Isle of Mull
• Staffa Trips : Isle of Iona and Fionnphort on the Isle of Mull
• Turus Mara : Ulva Ferry on the Isle of Mull
• West Coast Tours : Oban
• Seafari Adventures : Easdale, near Oban

Made up of hexagonal basalt columns which were formed millions of years ago by lava, the enchanting island of Staffa has an other-worldly appearance that has to be seen to be really appreciated. Visit the island to see the puffins and spectacular Fingal’s Cave.

Corryvreckan Whirlpool Ardfern

Corryvreckan Whirlpool

• Depart: Easdale, near Oban
• Cost per adult: £55
• Length of trip: 2 – 3 hours
• Depart: Isle of Seil
• Cost per adult: £68 – £75
• Length of trip: 3 – 5 hours
• Depart: Isle of Jura
• Cost per adult: £70
• Length of trip: 3 hours

Book a trip to see the world’s third largest whirlpool, located to the northern tip of the Isle of Jura, off Scotland’s west coast. The Corryvreckan whirlpool is particularly dramatic during new and full moons and many of the tour operators combine trips to the whirlpool with wildlife searches, where you might see dolphins, whales, seals and more.

St Kilda St Kilda

© VisitScotland / Airborne Lens

• Depart: Leverburgh, Isle of Harris
• Cost per adult: £285
• Length of trip: 11.5 hours
• Cost per adult: £260
• Length of trip: 11 hours
• Depart: Isle of Berneray
• Cost per adult: £255
• Length of trip: 10 hours
• Depart: Isle of Barra/Isle of Eriskay
• Cost per adult: £265
• Length of trip: 12 hours
• Depart: Stein Jetty, Isle of Skye
• Cost per adult: £280
• Length of trip: 13.5 hours

The dramatic archipelago of St Kilda lies 41 miles west of Benbecula in the Outer Hebrides and is the UK’s only dual UNESCO World Heritage Site. This boat trip is an epic one – with crossings taking between 2.5 and 4 hours one way – but it’s a trip that you’ll never forget. Land on the island of Hirta to see the abandoned houses (the last remaining islanders were evacuated in 1930) and seabirds – almost 1 million!

Sea Stacks in the Outer Hebrides Outer Hebrides

Luskentyre Sands, Isle of Harris

• Depart: Miavaig, Isle of Lewis
• Cost per adult: £53
• Length of trip: 2 hours

Head out on a fast RIB with  Seatrek  to see the impressive sea stacks, islands and towering cliffs on Lewis’ west coast. As well as admiring the towering cliffs (90 metres high in places!) look out for seals sunning themselves on the rocks and kittiwakes sheltering in sea caves.

Seabirds and Noss National Nature Reserve Shetland

Noss National Nature Reserve

• Depart: Lerwick
• Cost per adult: £50
• Length of trip: 2 – 2.5 hours

Departing from Shetland’s main town of Lerwick, head east to the beautiful nature reserve of Noss island, one of Europe’s finest wildlife sites. Over 25,000 gannets make their homes here, along with numerous other seabirds. See them plunging into the water to catch fish before using their impressive 1.8 metre wingspan to power back into the air.

Loch Lomond Loch Lomond

Walkers on Conic Hill

• Depart: Balloch
• Cost: From £10.50
• Length: 1 hour intro to island exploration, or sunset cruises
• Depart: Luss, Tarbet or Inveruglas
• Cost: From £15
• Length: 1 hour or 2 hours 15 minutes

Take in the infamous loch from the water to enjoy unique views of the surrounding mountains, numerous islands and curious wildlife.

Search for more boat tours in Scotland , plan an island hopping adventure or read our ideas for calming escapes by the water .

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Scotland Tours

The mysterious, mystical allure of Scotland belies the grace and warm hospitality of those who live there, from the Islands to the Highlands and the Lowlands, Victorian cities and heather moorlands. Scotland beckons with diversity of language and landscapes, elegant in simplicity and complex in legacies.

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Hear the stories of a rogue Rob Roy... heralded family tartans... single malt whiskies... fierce clan traditions... the depths of Loch Ness... Stirling, Edinburgh, and Cawdor castles... peaceful glens... heather-laced gloamings and mountains... Mary, Queen of Scots.... a Royal Mile... Glasgow... Inverness... Georgian Edinburgh...

A scottish whisky experience, a 1,000+ year heritage....

Discovering the iconic food and drink of a destination is an important part of any comprehensive travel experience. Journey through the aromas and flavors that lead to the perfect Single Malt Whisky at the "Scottish Whisky Experience"... learning the history of Scotland's most famous export, hearing the stories behind the craft, and – of course – taste the results.

Special evening celebrating Scottish traditions

Celebrate the best of scotland at a lively evening of scottish traditions.

Bagpipers... Highland dancers... tartan and kilt making demonstration... iconic Scottish traditions that come to life on a special Scottish evening following dinner at Kingsmills Hotel.

Visit the Royal Palace of Holyroodhouse

Royal palace of holyroodhouse.

At the opposite end of Edinburgh's Royal Mile from Edinburgh Castle stands the Royal Palace of Holyroodhouse (Holyrood Palace), the official residence of the monarch while in Scotland. The earliest part of the palace dates to the 16th century, when Mary, Queen of Scots resided here; see her rooms and more on Tauck's early-opening visit, available when members of the Royal Family are not in residence. The palace was transformed into a modern royal residence by the current Queen's grandfather, King George V. You'll also enjoy the royal gardens and wild Holyrood Park.

Private tour of 244-year-old The Glenturret, one of the Highlands' oldest distilleries

Enjoy a privately guided tour at the glenturret, the highlands' oldest working distillery.

A tour and tasting at the Highlands' oldest single malt distillery reveals, in the words of The Glenturret, "Since its origins among the smugglers and illicit stills of the 18th century, The Glenturret has had some fascinating stories to tell. Whisky booms and prohibition might have ruffled its feathers, but The Glenturret scotch malt whisky, still made by hand in the traditional way, weathered all these challenges and has matured into an enduring brand that remains as the only traditionally hand mashed whisky in Scotland."

Highland treasures at Inverness

Macbeth's castle and more at inverness in the highlands.

Capital of the Highlands, Inverness is set within Scotland's Great Glen at the mouth of the River Ness. In the "happiest city in Scotland" (according to a recent survey), explore the Clava Cairns of Bulnuaran, circa 2500 BC, and Cawdor Castle, portrayed in Shakespeare's "Macbeth" (actually built long after the real Thane was dust). Or visit Culloden Moor – where Bonnie Prince Charlie's uprising was defeated in 1746 – and Fort George. Also cruise the Caledonian Canal to visit the ruins of Urquhart Castle, and explore brooding Loch Ness in a canoe or tour a local distillery.

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Hourly Loch Ness boat trips without the crowds

Rated 4.8 out of 5 stars based on 512 customer reviews.

Come for a cruise on the Nessie Hunter and explore the worlds most famous Loch with us. Here are a few reasons to choose Loch Ness Cruises for your unforgettable experience on Loch Ness...

An intimate and unique experience with a maximum of 12 passengers on each boat trip.

Live commentary by local Drumnadrochit skippers whose knowledge of Loch Ness, Nessie and the Highlands is second to none. 

A spacious & heated indoor cabin with seating available for all passengers with large panoramic windows or the opportunity to enjoy the fresh Highlands air from our cushioned aft deck seating area.

Professional and proof read information about Loch Ness available in 20 languages.

Advanced colour sonar so we can try and spot what lurks below the dark waters of Loch Ness!

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See what we've been up to recently, get your private boat on loch ness.

We also offer a wide range of private charter options. Whether you want the boat to yourself for a multiple hour trip, scientific research or perhaps even have your dream wedding on Loch Ness, we’ve got you covered!

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The perfect way to experience the sights, wildlife and history of the famous loch... but don't just take our word for it.

All staff are to be commended on the way they looked after us all once on board. The narrative on the trip was very informative and knowledgeable. In our opinion a worthwhile trip and very reasonably priced

Derek P - Richmond

We went out on a cold but calm day. The crew were super friendly and Shaun was a fantastic storyteller. There were a few kids on board and he entertained adults and kids with his educational information.

Lisarix - London

The tour boat was modern and well kept being constantly cleaned throughout the tour to give good visibility. Staff were extremely knowledgeable and eager to share their experiences. Thanks again to the team. Not sure how you could have made it better!

Fedupwiththissy - Yorkshire

We're incredibly proud of our history and delighted to have been recognised with some amazing awards.

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Explore Scotland by small boat Splendour. Travel among spectacular scenery, wildlife, heritage and feast on local produce from Argyll and Arran.

Splendour looked splendid, befitting - the ensuite cabins are spacious and luxuriously furnished. Gourmet meals using fresh local produce.

Cruising Scotland's Hebrides was an adventure - and one full of new friends and incredible wildlife and nature.

Unwind on the West Coast of Scotland on a Unique Small Boat Cruising Holiday

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Explore the Picturesque West Coast of Scotland and the Hebrides on our Unique Scottish Cruises

Argyll Cruising offers ten unique Scottish Cruises, visiting the inlets and islands of Argyll, Arran and the Hebrides, including Mull, Islay, Jura and Skye and the Small Isles. The spectacular cruises run from three to thirteen nights, amongst the beautiful islands and stunning sea lochs of Argyll. With a maximum of 8 guests on board, these are highly personalised cruising experiences within an idyllic maritime setting.

Your skipper will welcome you on board the elegant Splendour , a tastefully converted traditional wooden trawler yacht, and home for the duration of your cruise. A holiday on board Splendour offers the perfect escape with relaxing and welcoming accommodation. On the spacious outdoor decks you have the choice of unwinding on sun loungers, wildlife watching, perhaps a spot of fishing, or an invigorating plunge into a secluded bay.  

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Explore the Coastline of Argyll, Arran and the Outer Hebrides

Going ashore by tender is part of the fun. Opportunities to explore stunning coastlines, traditional villages, ancient woodlands, castles and world famous whisky distilleries are plentiful on our Scottish cruises. While out on the tender you might have the opportunity to help crew set creels for crab or lobster, which could even be served at the next meal. The ultimate in food from source to table.

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After time on deck, exploring on shore and creating lasting memories, relax in the deck saloon and get to know your fellow guests whilst enjoying the freshest local produce, prepared and cooked by our private chef.

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An Abundance of Wildlife to See

Join us on a Scottish wildlife cruise where we sail under the towering cliffs of Ailsa Craig, the seabird mecca of the Western Isles. With over 40,000 breeding gannets, hundreds of puffins, porpoises and the chance to spot minke whales, all from the spacious wildlife watching decks of Splendour, our cruises are a nature lover’s dream.

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Cruise Scotland in Style

With beautiful traditional lines, Splendour lives up to her name, both outside and in. Boasting double or twin private en suite cabins, she is more than suitable for the modern traveller, and offers a comfortable and cosy cruising experience.

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“We will always hold our cruise on the Splendour dear in our hearts.”

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Wildlife Boat Trips

We offer a fantastic range of boat trips around the islands in the Firth of Forth, including the incredible Bass Rock gannet colony (featured in BBC1's Wild Isles). Trips run from late March to early October. Look out for different seabirds and marine wildlife throughout the spring and summer season. Boat trips for can be booked online through the links below or call us on 01620 890 202. Please note that WATERPROOFS ARE NOT PROVIDED for any of our trips, even on a warm sunny day it can be cold out on the water, please bring your own waterproofs and make sure you have warm clothing for your trip.

Three Islands Seabird Seafari

These exhilarating wildlife boat trips leave North Berwick Harbour and head out around the islands of the Lamb, Craigleith and of course the famous Bass Rock. Enjoy seeing a range of amazing wildlife in its natural habitat. Seasonal highlights include puffins, guillemots, gannets and if you’re really lucky you might even spot dolphins. Please note our RIBs (rigid inflatable boats) are unsuitable for anyone with back and or neck problems or who is pregnant. WATERPROOFS ARE NOT PROVIDED please bring your own waterproofs. All children 16 and under must be accompanied by an adult on these trips.

Isle of May Landing trips

Visit stunning National Nature Reserve the Isle of May. The island is steeped in history and is a haven for wildlife, supporting internationally important colonies of breeding seabirds in the summer and grey seals over winter. Enjoy a cruise around the iconic Bass Rock on your return journey (weather and sea conditions permitting).

Our RIBs (rigid inflatable boats) are unsuitable for anyone with back and or neck problems or who is pregnant. Please note all children 16 and under must be accompanied by an adult on these trips. WATERPROOFS ARE NOT PROVIDED please bring your own waterproofs for the trip.

Seabird Catamaran Cruise

On board our custom-built, 55 seat catamaran, enjoy an hour-long cruise around the island of Craigleith and the Bass Rock, the world's largest colony of Northern gannets. Please note all children 16 and under must be accompanied by an adult on these trips.

Isle of May Round Island Trip

Departing from North Berwick Harbour, this exhilarating wildlife boat trip will take you around the Isle of May, Craigleith and out to the iconic Bass Rock. Please make sure you wear, warm water proof clothes, even on sunny days, it can be cold out on the water. Please note our RIBs (rigid inflatable boats) are unsuitable for anyone with back and or neck problems or who is pregnant. WATERPROOFS ARE NOT PROVIDED please bring your own waterproofs for the trip. All children 16 and under must be accompanied by an adult on these trips. Not suitable for children under 7.

The terms and conditions for all our boat trips are available to view HERE.

If you have any queries about any of the trips please don't hesitate to get in touch with us on [email protected]

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Cruise Timetables – Forth Boat Tours

Always book in advance where possible in order to avoid disappointment. Check out our cruise timetables.

During the peak tourist season in Edinburgh, which is typically from June to August, the Forth Boat Tours cruise timetables can be quite busy. This is because many visitors to Edinburgh choose to take a boat tour of the Firth of Forth to see the famous Forth Bridges and to visit Inchcolm Island. As a result, Forth Boat Tours may offer multiple departures per day for their popular tours such as the Three Bridges Cruise and the Inchcolm Island Landing.

During the off-peak season, which is typically from November to March, the timetable may be less frequent with fewer departures per day. This is because there may be fewer visitors to Edinburgh during this time, and the weather conditions may not be as favorable for boat tours.

It’s always a good idea to check the Forth Boat Tours website for the most up-to-date information on our cruise timetable and availability. You can also contact us directly if you have any questions about our schedule or if you want to book a tour in advance. Always check your booking confirmation for the departure point for your cruise.

Coming by car?

Hawes Pier is located in South Queensferry, near Edinburgh, and is very popular and bustling spot. There is therefore only limited parking available near the pier. There are however several options for parking in the area.

Hawes Pier Car Park

There is a small car park located next to Hawes Pier, which is operated by Edinburgh Council. The car park has a limited number of spaces and can fill up quickly.

South Queensferry Town Centre Car Parks

There are several pay and display car parks located in South Queensferry town centre. Most are only a short walk from Hawes Pier. These include the Shore Road Car Park and the Rosebery Hall Car Park, which is located on Rosebery Avenue.

On-Street Parking

There is limited on-street parking available near Hawes Pier and in South Queensferry town centre. However, parking restrictions limits may apply, so be sure to check the signs before you park.

It’s recommended to arrive early and allow plenty of time to find parking, especially during peak tourist season. You may also want to consider using public transportation, by taking the Scotrail train from Haymarket or Waverley Stations to Dalmeny Station. From there it is a 600 m walk to Hawes Pier.

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Hawes Pier South Queensferry, EH30 9TB OR Port Edgar Marina South Queensferry, EH30 9SQ

Please check our timetable to confirm departure point

Narrowboat Holidays in Scotland

Exploring scotland from the water.

A narrowboat holiday in Scotland offers stunning scenery with a more ‘hands off’ approach, as all the locks and bridges are managed by the Scottish Canal staff.

From our narrowboat hire base at Falkirk , you can enjoy a relaxing boating cruise between Falkirk and Glasgow or head in the opposite direction on the Union Canal to Edinburgh. If you want to visit both of these cities then book a one or two week canal boat trip and enjoy both of these stunning places at your leisure.

Canal boating in Scotland offers you the opportunity to make the most of the beautiful Scottish countryside together with visits to the historical cities of  Edinburgh  and  Glasgow .

Originally created to transport coal, the canals in Scotland are now mostly used by leisure craft for luxury canal boat holidays and offer a great variety of scenery on your route in comparison to other UK canals, including tunnels, the tallest aqueduct in Scotland over the River Avon and swing bridge locks.

Boating holidays in Scotland are tremendously popular, with routes such as travelling on the Forth and Clyde canal being a great way to enjoy the beautiful Scottish scenery.

One of the highlights of a canal boat holiday in Scotland is the Falkirk Wheel. This feat of modern engineering is quite breathtaking to see in action. It was created to rejoin the Forth and Clyde and the Union canal which had been split following the demolition of an 11 lock flight. Standing at 115 feet high, the Wheel is the world’s first and only rotating boat lift and was opened by the Queen in May 2002.

Canals in Scotland for Boat Holidays

Forth & clyde.

The Forth and Clyde Canal , an iconic waterway in central Scotland, was completed in the late 18th century. This ambitious canal stretches approximately 35 miles, linking the east coast of Scotland at the Firth of Forth with the west coast at the Firth of Clyde. It served as a crucial transportation route during the industrial revolution, allowing goods to be transported efficiently between the bustling cities of Glasgow and Edinburgh. The canal’s historic significance is mirrored in its architecture, featuring a remarkable series of locks, bridges, and aqueducts. In recent years, the Forth and Clyde Canal has been revitalized and transformed into a recreational and leisure amenity, providing a picturesque route for walkers, cyclists, and boaters to enjoy Scotland’s stunning landscapes and cultural heritage.

You can enjoy a canal boat trip on the Forth and Clyde from our hire base in Falkirk.

Union Canal

The Union Canal stretches approximately 31 miles, between Edinburgh and the town of Falkirk. It played a pivotal role in the transportation of goods and passengers during the early days of the industrial revolution, facilitating trade and travel between these two important locations. The Union Canal is renowned for its innovative engineering, including the famous Falkirk Wheel, a rotating boat lift that connects it to the Forth and Clyde Canal.

You can enjoy a canal boat trip on the Union Canal from our hire base in Falkirk.

Falkirk Wheel

The Falkirk Wheel stands as a marvel of modern engineering and a symbol of innovation in Scotland. This unique rotating boat lift, which opened in 2002, connects the Union Canal with the Forth and Clyde Canal, reestablishing a vital link in the nation’s waterway network. Unlike traditional locks, the Falkirk Wheel uses a revolutionary design that lifts boats gracefully from one canal to the other through a 180-degree rotation. This extraordinary piece of engineering not only serves a practical purpose by facilitating navigation but also has become a popular tourist attraction, drawing visitors from around the world who come to witness this incredible feat of design and enjoy the picturesque surroundings.

You can enjoy a canal boat trip on the  Falkirk Wheel from our hire base in Falkirk.

Crinan Canal

The Crinan Canal, often referred to as “Scotland’s most beautiful shortcut,” is a picturesque waterway located in the west of Scotland, slightly north-west of Glasgow. Stretching just over nine miles, this man-made canal connects the village of Ardrishaig on Loch Gilp with the village of Crinan on the west coast, providing a stunning passage through the heart of Scotland’s Argyll and Bute region. The canal was constructed in the early 19th century to serve as a shortcut for maritime traffic, allowing vessels to bypass the treacherous journey around the Kintyre Peninsula. Today, the Crinan Canal is not only a vital transportation route but also a popular destination for leisure boating and a haven for nature enthusiasts who come to admire its scenic beauty, historic locks, and tranquil waters, making it a hidden gem in Scotland’s landscape.

Caledonian Canal

The Caledonian Canal is located to the north of Glasgow and Edinburgh in the Scottish Highlands. The canal spans approximately 60 miles and connects the east and west coasts of Scotland, from Inverness in the east to Corpach near Fort William.  This man-made waterway was designed by the renowned Scottish engineer Thomas Telford in the early 19th century. It threads its way through a breathtaking landscape of lochs, mountains, and forests, including the famous Loch Ness. The canal’s intricate system of locks and waterways allows vessels to traverse the challenging terrain, making it a vital transportation route for both commercial and leisure boats. Today, the Caledonian Canal is not only a testament to Scotland’s engineering prowess but also a popular destination for tourists and outdoor enthusiasts who come to admire its natural beauty, hike along its scenic towpaths, and, with a bit of luck, catch a glimpse of the elusive Loch Ness Monster!

Monkland Canal

The now-abandoned The Monkland Canal, situated in central Scotland, holds a significant place in the country’s industrial history. Constructed in the late 18th century, this remarkable canal was designed primarily for transporting coal from the rich mining areas of Monklands to the bustling city of Glasgow. Stretching over 12 miles, it featured a series of locks and innovative engineering solutions for its time. With the introduction of the railways, the canal lost business and eventually fell into disuse, being abandoned for navigation in 1952. Some parts of it are now preserved as a heritage site, and it still supplies water to the Forth and Clyde Canal but other parts have been filled in and urbanised.

TOP TOWNS TO VISIT IN SCOTLAND

GLASGOW | A Scottish holiday would not be complete without a visit to Scotland’s biggest city. Glasgow ranks as one of the world’s top tourist destinations according to the Lonely Planet guide and once you delve into its long history you soon start to discover why. You can enjoy a boat cruise here on your boating holiday in Scotland from our hire base at Falkirk to Glasgow on boats available to travel along the Forth and Clyde canal.

Coming to prominence in medieval times, Glasgow became a major shipbuilding city and port with links all over the world.  Now, it makes for a stylish Scottish holiday with its great shopping, nightlife and world-famous art collections. Buchanan Street is one of Britain’s finest for high-street and designer fashions and leads to the Gallery of Modern Art on Royal Exchange Square – an oasis of calm after a retail overload. There are several magnificent museums and galleries in Glasgow, including the School of Art, Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum and the People’s Palace – plenty to keep you going!

Across the year Glasgow becomes host to many festivals including the Glasgow International Comedy Festival, Glasgow International Jazz Festival, Celtic Connections, Glasgow Fair, Glasgow Film Festival, West End Festival, Merchant City Festival and the World Pipe Band Championships.

EDINBURGH | On your canal holiday to Edinburgh, you’ll cruise the Union Canal up to Ratho, which is home to the Edinburgh Canal Centre; a highlight for canal holidays in Scotland. A popular stop, you’ll find a choice of places for shopping and dining.  From here it’s an easy bus ride into the centre of Edinburgh where you can easily while away the day exploring this lovely part of Scotland, visiting all the lovely attractions.   Most famous of these is the stunning Edinburgh Castle, sitting high on volcanic rock and overlooking the Royal Mile, the oldest section of Edinburgh and home to a number of important landmarks, tourist shops and lots of ghostly tours. If you have time, tour the Scotch Whisky Experience and enjoy the amazing optical illusions that are a feature of Camera Obscura – both attractions are close to the castle. A short list of other popular landmarks includes the National Monument of Scotland on Calton Hill, the Scott Monument at the Prince Street Gardens and the Palace of Holyroodhouse.

Don’t forget you also have the famous Edinburgh Festival which takes place every year over the last three weeks in August.  The city comes to life with every nook and cranny becoming a theatre venue, with live music and street theatre bringing real vibrancy to every part of the area.  Early booking is advised at this time, as this is a very popular time to holiday in Scotland, especially for Scottish boating holidays. If you are looking for accommodation for the Edinburgh Festival then boat rental with Black Prince could be an option.

TOP NATURE SPOTS

LINLITHGOW LOCK | Popular for water sports and is also a notable spot for bird watching. It is three quarters of a mile long and makes a nice walk if you are in need of stretching your legs.  Dominated by Linlithgow Palace, the loch is a spectacular place to fish with stocked rainbows released weekly throughout the season.

TOP SMALL TOWNS YOU MAY NEVER HAVE HEARD OF BUT SHOULD VISIT

On the  Edinburgh canal boat route , your journey will take you through the ancient village of  Linlithgow . This royal burgh lies south of two famous landmarks, Linlithgow Palace and Linlithgow Loch. Linlithgow Palace is arguably Scotland’s finest surviving late medieval building and was the birthplace of Mary Queen of Scots. The grounds are home to a beautiful public park known as The Peel, worth a visit and a stop off for a picnics.

Heading towards Glasgow you should make time to stop off at the village  Auchinstarry  to explore it’s Roman fort, and then  Kirkintilloch , which dates back to the 13th century.

TOP VIEWS ACROSS THE COUNTRYSIDE

If you cruise along the Union Canal towards Glasgow you’ll cross the magnificent  Almond Aqueduct,  which is 420 feet long and carries the canal 76 feet above the River Almond.  Great views to be had across the beautiful Scottish countryside here.

TOP CANAL ATTRACTIONS

One of the highlights of holidays on the Scottish canals is the Falkirk Wheel .  This feat of modern engineering is quite breathtaking to see in action.  It was created to rejoin the the Forth and Clyde and the Union canal which had been split following the demolition of an 11 lock flight.  Standing at 115 feet high, the Wheel is the world’s first and only rotating boat lift and was opened by the Queen in May 2002. You can go onto the Falkirk Wheel with a boat rental from Black Prince.

TOP KIDS ATTRACTIONS

The  Water Activity Zone  underneath the Falkirk Wheel offers canoeing sessions and fun with waterwalkerz – the giant inflatable balls that kids love to climb inside and try to walk in! There is also a  Children ’ s Activity Zone  by the Wheel where the little ones can run off some steam in the play park and nature trail. The new Mini Canal and Water Play Area will give children and adults alike a really vibrant, hands-on connection with The Falkirk Wheel and the Scottish canals.

Visiting Scotland from overseas

If you are looking to enjoy a boating vacation in Scotland, then you’ve come to the right place! Each year we welcome visitors from all over the world, from the USA, Canada, Australia, all over Europe and elsewhere to enjoy this canal boat trip.

Many of our overseas guests enjoy either a short break or longer vacation in Scotland. You can choose a three or four-night break which you could easily tag on to the end of another holiday here in the UK, or boost the holiday to a week or more.

A seven-night canal boat vacation would allow you to visit both Edinburgh and Glasgow, if you wanted to spend a couple of days exploring each city then we would recommend a ten-day break.

You can reach our hire base at Falkirk either by public transport or by car. The nearest airport is Edinburgh and the nearest train station is Falkirk, you can easily get a taxi from either the airport or the train station. We provide free car parking at the hire base.

The Kelpies

Dog / Pet friendly Boats and Boating Holidays

Dog-friendly boating holidays offer a fantastic way for pet lovers to enjoy a relaxing and memorable vacation while including their furry companions. Whether cruising along tranquil canals or meandering down scenic rivers, these holidays provide a unique opportunity for dogs and their owners to bond in the great outdoors.

Black Prince offers pet-friendly canal boat options, ensuring that your four-legged friend and other types of family pet can join in on the adventure. Your first pet travels free, there is a small charge an extra pet. We recommend no more than two dogs per boat as space for dog beds etc. starts to become limited. If you would like to take another type of pet other than a dog, please call our team to ensure that we can cater for it on board our pet-friendly boats.

Short Breaks for Lowland Canals Narrowboat Hire

If you’re looking for a short break on a luxury canal boat, then take a look at these suggestions for a three or four night break boat rental.

Falkirk to the Kelpies | Take the Falkirk Wheel trip rotation (approx. 2hrs) and then cruise east on the Forth & Clyde Canal (approx. 4 hrs). Meet the boat movement team at a prearranged time at lock 16, transit down through the 15 locks to the Kelpies before morning up and staying overnight at the base of the Kelpies. You then return on the same route. Please note that all locks are manned and booking is required for the transit down and up the 15 locks to the Kelpies.

Falkirk – Auchinstarry (West on F & C) Approx 4hrs | Meet the boat movement team at a prearranged time at Bonnybridge Lift Bridge to start your canal holiday (approx. 30mins cruising from Falkirk) and continue cruising through locks 17 – 20 (all manned) and up to Auchinstarry.

Falkirk – Kirkintilloch (West on F & C) Approx 6.5hrs | Meet the boat movement team at a prearranged time at Bonnybridge Lift Bridge (approx. 30mins cruising from Falkirk) continue cruising through locks 17 – 20 (all manned) and up to Auchinstarry. Once past Auchinstarry there are another 2 bridges that have to be opened for you Twechar & Hillhead Bridge.

DOES SCOTLAND HAVE CANALS?

Yes! Scottish canals are the Caledonian Canal , Crinan, Forth & Clyde, Union and Monkland canals which are operated by The Scottish Canals. In total, there is a 137-mile canal network that The Scottish Canals maintain. If you’re looking for a unique boating holiday and top-rated week cruising rings, Scotland is an excellent choice.

CAN I HIRE A CANAL BOAT IN SCOTLAND?

Yes, Black Prince offer canal boat hire from Falkirk in Stirlingshire, so you can enjoy everything from a holiday on the Lowland Canals – the Union and the Forth and Clyde Canal.

WHY WERE CANALS BUILT IN SCOTLAND?

By the middle of the 18th century, the expansion of trade had developed so significantly that a new way of transporting goods was needed. The rivers in Scotland were difficult to navigate and land across land was slow and unreliable. The Union Canal, for example, running from Falkirk to Edinburgh, was constructed to bring minerals, especially coal, to the capital.

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The island of Boreray in the St Kilda archipelago is home to the world largest northern gannet colony. Photo by Jim Richardson

St Kilda was populated for thousands of years before the evacuation in 1930 of the 36 remaining islanders. Photo courtesy of the National Trust of Scotland

Stac Lee, the second highest sea stack in the St Kilda archipelago. Photo by Arpat Ozgul

Journey to the islands on the edge

of the world in comfort and style

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“Bucket list trip!”

Trudy, Sydney. Reviewed on TripAdvisor

My sister in law and I hugely enjoyed our trip to St Kilda, courtesy of Kilda cruises. Our hosts on the boat were polite, courteous, informative and attentive. They looked after us with tea and cake and a dram. Being on St Kilda was just wonderful, enhanced by the boat trip round Boreray and the Stacks. The wildlife is amazing and the skipper was very knowledgeable about the islands. Highly recommend.

“... Unforgettable experience... ”

Alan, Edinburgh. Reviewed on TripAdvisor

Thanks for a great much anticipated trip out to St Kilda. The weather was great with favourable sea conditions and plenty sunshine. The crew Stuart and Donald were very good and focused on passengers welfare on the run out to St Kilda. Hirta is a beautiful island and it’s very interesting to see where the kildans lived and their way of life. On the run back we visited the sea stacks including the towering Boreray and the huge bird colonies where the kildans scaled the rock faces to hunt the sea birds and collect eggs!

As featured in National Geographic and Visit Outer Hebrides

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Tobermory Bay Tour

£15 adult, £6 child.

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Tobermory Bay

Experience the beauty of Tobermory from the water and discover the secrets of the Bay on one of our short tours aboard Twilight, the iconic little yellow boat.

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A warm welcome awaits you on your journey aboard Twilight, with stories aplenty, from ancient shipwrecks and tales of gold to island life today, it’s the perfect short cruise for all ages.

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How to plan the ultimate island-hopping adventure in Scotland

Wild, windswept and wonderfully scenic, these islands have neolithic sites, curious wildlife and a culture all of their own.

The 900-odd islands, islets and skerries amassed off the western and northern coasts of mainland Scotland are an eclectic bunch. In the north, the North Sea archipelagos of Shetland and Orkney have Viking history and names derived from Old Norse. To the west, the Atlantic-bound Outer Hebrides remain the stronghold of the Gaelic language, which is still spoken everywhere on the islands. And then there are the Inner Hebrides, tucked in closer to the mainland and running from whisky-soaked Islay in the south to the toothy peaks of Skye in the north.

It’s a region where connection matters. Some destinations have easy links to mainland communities; more ferries and flights mean more people and, generally, a more cosmopolitan feel. Others are flung further out to sea, islands off islands reached only via multiple ferries, and with a wholly different character.

At times, this topography has led to heartbreak. Take islands such as St Kilda and Mingulay, in the Outer Hebrides: home to small but determined local communities for millennia, both had to be eventually abandoned in the last century due to a gradual loss of self-sufficiency.

But it can also provide part of the charm, for it makes the journey part of the experience. A highlight of any visit to the islands is likely to be the trip out to them. Skye, for example, can be reached via a swooping road bridge that climbs to 115ft above Loch Alsh. If you fly into Barra, gateway to the Outer Hebrides, you’ll touch down right on a beach — the only such landing in the world.

Indeed, the beaches are a highlight across the archipelagos. Many look like they could be found on a screensaver, all buttery sand and aquamarine water. Some stretches of coastline are so sparsely populated and little visited, you might romp down their dunes and make the day’s first footprints.

Wildlife flourishes throughout, too. Expect to spot eagles overhead and puffins on the cliffs, plus all manner of marine life, from seals and dolphins to basking sharks and even whales. This also means you’ll find just-caught seafood on the menu everywhere, from cosy restaurants to village pubs.

We’ve picked some of the best trips to discover this region of wind and waves, but wherever you travel, there’s always another island waiting on the horizon. The temptation to carry on is as strong as the whisky.

Itinerary 1:   Far North & Orkney

Start point: Inverness End point: Inverness Distance travelled: 374 miles Average length: 7 days

Orkney is unlike anywhere else in Scotland. That’s partly down to its history: it was under Norwegian and Danish control for hundreds of years until the 15th century, and many Orcadians still claim Scandinavian ancestry. It’s also down to its location, across the Pentland Firth from Scotland’s northeast tip, with the largest town, Kirkwall, standing more than 200 miles north of Edinburgh.

Despite feeling far removed, it’s just 90 minutes by ferry from the Scottish mainland. By renting a car and using Inverness as your start and end point, you can easily combine exploring Orkney with a spin around Scotland’s far north, where the Flow Country is a highlight. It’s the world’s most intact and extensive blanket bog system, a peaty, pool-dotted expanse whose colour palette of mossy browns and earthy greens seems to shift like a kaleidoscope as clouds scud overhead.

Once you reach Orkney via ferry, the landscape is dominated by the North Sea, glinting on the horizon and pounding the shoreline, never too far from the road. On Mainland, Orkney’s largest island, a straightforward loop takes in the archipelago’s best-known sights, many of them historically significant, including the ancient village of Skara Brae — part of Orkney’s UNESCO-listed group of Neolithic sites — and Scapa Flow, where you can dive among shipwrecks. On Hoy, to the south of Mainland and accessible via ferry, one of the UK’s tallest sea stacks provides an easy marker for the end of your trip.

Highlights in the Far North & Orkney

1.   Forsinard Flows Hire a car in Inverness and head north to Scotland’s Flow Country, an expanse of rare blanket bog that’s currently being considered for UNESCO World Heritage status. At its heart is an RSPB reserve where you can walk the mile-long Dubh Lochan boardwalk, spotting lizards, frogs and dragonflies at ground level, and hen harriers and golden plovers overhead. A viewing tower affords views across the peatland.

2. Skara Brae Take the 90-minute car ferry from Scrabster, on the mainland, to Stromness, in Orkney, then find Skara Brae huddled next to a blustery beach. We know Neolithic people had a form of fitted furniture thanks to a storm that hit Orkney’s Mainland in 1850. It uncovered this immaculately preserved 5,000-year-old village, where nine surviving homes are divided into clear rooms and feature stone dressers and box-beds. The visitor centre displays artefacts such as jewellery and tools.

3. Kirkwall A 25-minute drive east takes you to Kirkwall, home to Orkney’s main harbour and airport and liveliest pub scene. You’ll also find Britain’s most northerly cathedral, the yellow-and-red sandstone St Magnus, founded in the 12th century. The town is the most bankable spot for a proper Orcadian live music session: pop into Skipper’s , The Bothy Bar or the Auld Motor Hoose to find out what’s on.

4. Scapa Flow Once a British naval base, Scapa Flow played a key role in both world wars. Today, these sheltered waters just south of Mainland are littered with shipwrecks, from blockships sunk to keep the Germans at bay to the German High Seas Fleet, deliberately scuttled here in 1919. Take a snorkel safari for a glimpse of these wrecks or get closer to them on a scuba dive with Kraken Diving .

5. Old Man of Hoy For the last leg of the trip, take the car ferry from Houton, on Mainland, to Lyness, on Hoy, then drive the 25 minutes to Rackwick. From here, hike along the cliffs — spotting fulmars and great skuas as you go — to the Old Man of Hoy, on the island’s west coast. This 450ft-tall red sandstone sea stack is best seen in late afternoon, when the sun brings out its rosy colour. Allow three hours return for the hike.

Itinerary 2:   Outer Hebrides

Start point:   Barra End point: Stornoway Distance travelled: 137 miles Average length: 10 days

Some of Scotland’s finest scenery lies far off its western coast, across the crashing waters of the Minch strait on the fringes of Europe. If the climate were warmer, the Outer Hebrides would surely be overrun with sunseekers, home as they are to white sand beaches that could stand in for the Caribbean. Instead, with the average summer high a cool 16C, this 130-mile-long string of islands remains quiet year-round — and fiercely traditional.

The archipelago is the last stronghold of the Scottish Gaelic language, once the dominant tongue throughout most of Scotland. It sets the tone for encounters with islanders still engaged in traditional crofting, fishing and weaving, producing the world-famous Harris tweed — still handwoven using island-spun wool — and some of the tastiest seafood.

This is a journey to take your time over, making diversions to local art galleries and near-hidden Neolithic sites. Start by flying from Glasgow to Barra, then hop between South Uist, North Uist, Harris and Lewis via ferry and causeway, eventually flying back from Stornoway. Along the way, the road glides above the Atlantic, ribbons around rocky bays and hugs the foot of lofty, heather-cloaked mountains.

Highlights in the Outer Hebrides

1. Traigh Mhòr This beach, on the northern tip of Barra, is the only one in the world to double as a runway for scheduled flights. Begin your Hebridean adventure with a memorable touchdown, watching the sands rushing up to meet you as you descend over the Atlantic. Pick up a vehicle from Car Hire Hebrides and drive the 20 minutes to the main village, Castlebay. Its huddle of homes gazes out at Kisimul Castle , a fortress atop an islet and the only medieval castle remaining in the Outer Hebrides.

2. Beinn Langais Take the ferry from Castlebay to Lochboisdale, on South Uist, then drive 50 minutes to North Uist and check in to Langass Lodge , a former shooting lodge. Pull on some boots for a two-mile circular trail, taking in the 5,000-year-old Barpa Langais chambered cairn, Pobull Fhinn stone circle and Beinn Langais hill. North Uist is slung so low that the latter’s 300ft summit rewards you with a panorama of peatland and sinewy sea lochs.

3. St Kilda Continue north via road and ferry to Leverburgh, on the island of Harris, your base for the next couple of days. This is the departure point for day trips to the St Kilda archipelago, which rises sharply from the water 40 miles to the west. Once home to a thriving community, it now stands abandoned, the traditional Hebridean blackhouses gently crumbling. While it’s officially uninhabited, some life remains here, with almost a million seabirds — including the UK’s largest colony of puffins — cloaking the sheer cliffs and enormous sea stacks.

4. Golden Road Starting around 30 minutes’ drive north of Leverburgh, the Golden Road is hailed as one of the isles’ best drives. Clinging to Harris’s eastern coast, its single track loops around sea lochs, the waterline occasionally broken by seals’ glossy crowns. Check out local art at Skoon Gallery & Studio and Finsbay Gallery and make time for the Harris tweed exhibition in Drinishader to learn about the beloved cloth.

5. Calanais Standing stones Swap Harris for Lewis with an hour-long drive north from Drinishader to the Calanais Standing Stones , a cross-shaped stone circle older than Stonehenge. We’ll probably never know why they were erected here some 5,000 years ago — astronomical observatory? Site of Neolithic worship? — but the intrigue has contributed to myths and legends. The mountains and lochs around it make it all a glorious sight.

6.   Uig Sands Drive another 30 minutes to get to this blissfully quiet beach, then hike across miles of pristine sands washed by teal waters to work up an appetite. Lunch is at Uig Sands restaurant: nab a window seat and order the Uig Lodge smoked salmon, then linger a night or two in one of four chic bedrooms, all of which have private patios and views across the bay.

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