Lord of the Glens
Wild heathen
landscapes and dramatic glens combine with breathtaking lochs and
canals to make Scotland a country of phenomenal natural beauty.
With Great Rail Journeys you will voyage along one of Great
Britain's most famous waterways - the Caledonian Canal - and
sail over the sea to Scotland's idyllic islands. Medieval Castles,
World Heritage Sites and journeys on scenic heritage railways are
just a few of the possible highlights of our Scotland
cruises.
On these relaxing voyages you will have the opportunity to explore the rich culture and natural beauty of Scotland, which has inspired poetry, folklore and legends. All our Scotland cruises sail along the remarkable Caledonian Canal, which flows from Inverness on the east coast to Fort William on the west coast, crossing a total of 60 miles. The man-made sections of the canal connect four of Scotland's famous lochs; Loch Dochfour, Loch Ness, Loch Oich, and Loch Lochy. The most famous of these is of course Loch Ness, which is rumoured to be home to the mythical sea creature Nessie.
This fantastic five-night cruise through the heart of the highlands begins and ends with a night in Edinburgh before we board our ship for a journey through the rugged coastline of the Scotland's west coast to the unspoilt beauty of the Isle of Mull, along the Caledonian Canal, across Loch Ness and up Neptune's Staircase.
Departures from April to October
from £1,195
Follow in the footsteps of Robert Burns to explore Edinburgh before heading across the Highlands to Inverness where we embark upon the ultimate cruise to Scotland's breathtaking West Coast. Spend 10 fabulous nights aboard the luxury MV Lord of the Glens, cruising along the Caledonian Canal and through tranquil lochs and glens. We sail around the picture-postcard Inner Hebrides before returning to Inverness on the Kyle Line, one of Britain's most picturesque railway lines.
Departures from August to August
from £3,530
Scottish Islands & Lochs Cruise 2012
Edinburgh & Scotland's West Coast Cruise 2012
The Caledonian Canal is an incredible feat of
engineering, with 29 locks along its length making it possible to
navigate along the rugged Great Glen. One of the highlights of our
Scotland cruises is the magnificent Neptune's
Staircase - a series of eight locks which raises ships 70 feet
above sea level, over just 500 yards. There is no better way to
explore the incredible waterway than by sailing along it whilst
enjoying views of the Highlands and the mighty Ben
Nevis.
Each of our Scotland cruises has an individual itinerary with its own character and highlights. There are many possible ports of call, with each voyage calling at a variety of quaint harbour towns and rural villages such as Tobermory, Portree and Plockton. On selected voyages you can start your cruise with a stay in Edinburgh before travelling by rail to join your cruise. During your voyage aboard the MV Lord of the Glens you will have the chance to join shore excursions or explore independently at each port.
Scotland's vast history is also explored during our Scotland cruises, with visits to some of the county's most iconic landmarks. On a selection of our Scotland cruises there is an optional excursion to the historic Dunvegan Castle, which perches on rock attached to the seabed. The stunning fortress has been owned by the same family for over eight centuries, making it the oldest continuously owned and occupied castle in Scotland.
Our Scotland cruises are aboard the sophisticated MV Lord of the Glens which explores the rugged coastline and picturesque harbours of mainland Scotland and its islands. The unique ship is the only passenger vessel that can sail along Scotland's narrow inland waterways and the open sea. Your entire day can be spent sightseeing in comfort in the top deck lounge and bar, which boast large comfortable sofas and panoramic windows. The ship's restaurant also offers views of the passing scenery through its round picture windows.
The MV Lord of the Glens combines modern elegance with contemporary amenities throughout. The ship offers a range of facilities including an entertainment area in the bar where local artists perform and an informal restaurant which can seat up to 60 guests. The delicious cuisine that is served during our Scotland cruises is prepared onboard using fresh, local produce. The entire ship is exquisitely appointed throughout, with an inviting mahogany finished reception and lobby. All guests on our Scotland cruises stay in cabins that have a range of amenities including a TV, air-conditioning, heating, a full size wardrobe and an en suite.
01904 521 936
During your voyage you may witness some of the phenomenal wildlife that inhabits the waters surrounding Scotland, such as whales, seals, dolphins and otters. There is also a variety of birdlife including White-tailed Eagles, Puffin and Osprey. The type of wildlife you may see on our Scotland Cruises depends on the time of year that you join Great Rail Journeys.
All our Scotland cruises include the popular features of a Great Rail Journeys tour. A Tour Manager will be on hand throughout your journey to ensure that everything runs smoothly and first class rail travel will be used whenever possible. For full details on what is included please see the individual itineraries of our Scotland cruises.