Le Boat - Loch Ness and the Caledonian Canal, Scotland

Escape the crowds and discover the fabulous Scottish Highlands from a different perspective. Together with your furry friend, why not take a self drive river cruiser to meander along the gentle waterways on a comfortable berth packed with modern amenities through routes around the Highlands. Much of your time will be spent on lochs nestled in the rugged valleys along the Great Glen, a geologic fault line that shaped the landscape of the region. Expect  hilltop castles, quiet waterside towns, lake resorts and super cosy waterside dog-friendly pubs. There are several different routes from three to seven nights duration. Start at the base at Laggan, a small peaceful village with a lovely pub and enjoy beautiful views of Inverness castle, explore Drumnadrochit known for its famous monster Nessie, see the castle ruins, visit Fort Augustus on the shores of Loch Ness and enjoy the spectacular scenery of Fort William and marvel at Ben Nevis - the tallest mountain in Europe. All Le Boat river cruisers range from budget to premiere sleeping from two to twelve and come equipped with all you need to enjoy a city adventure with your canine companion.

Begin your boating adventure for the first time or as a more experienced crew member with full tuition provided at the start of every journey. When you arrive at the base, you will be given an in-depth briefing on every aspect of your boat from which knots to use to how the oven works. After your instruction lesson you will be given a temporary permit for the duration of your holiday. Most visitor moorings on canals and rivers are governed by the Canal & River Trust and are free of charge, meaning your boat will be permitted to moor anywhere on the towpath side of the canal as long as no obstruction is being caused. 

A suggested route for those wanting a longer escape is Laggan return via Inverness & Banavie where you can scout magnificent Loch Ness, take in the mountains and blue waters from your sundeck and feel a world away on your Caledonian Canal boat trip. This route from Laggan passes 24 locks and can be completed in seven nights. Highlights include views of Ben Nevis and the Grey Collies mountains from Gairlochy, the sight of Fort Augustus from the shores of Loch Ness and Inverness Castle, exploration your best furry friend will thoroughly enjoy.

If you’re looking for a shorter break, Laggan return via Banavie & Fort Augustus includes views of Loch Lochy and Ben Nevis, Britain’s highest mountain at over 4,000 feet and takes your breath away on the gondola ride up Aonach Mor, marking a highlight of your Caledonian canal boating holiday. This route from Laggan passes 12 locks and can be completed in three nights. Highlights include views of Ben Nevis and the Grey Collies mountains from Gairlochy and Sight of the Jacobite Steam train, Hogwarts Express, in Banavie.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

All dog-friendly river cruisers are available from April to November. Arrive on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday or Saturday for a 3, 4, 5, 7, 10 or 11 night stay. Please note that each route has individual changeover dates. In a river cruiser berthing 4, enjoy a 3 night stay from £557 or 7 night stay from £789 in the low season, excluding fuel supplement. Supplements apply on summer dates and larger boats.

For more information on payable fees and deposits, check out our Holiday Extras.