A Loch Ness and Caledonian Canal Boat Cruise and Loch Lomond House Party
The first week would be spent traversing the 60 miles of Caledonian Canal, one of the great waterways of the world, running through the very heart of Scotland. The cruise journeys from Loch Linnhe on the west coast to Inverness on the east coast, entering the Caledonian Canal at Fort William. The towering mass of Ben Nevis is a stunning backdrop to magnificent Loch Linnhe and the quintessential Scottish castle, Castle Stalker, before entering the 60 miles of the canal. Navigating Neptune's Staircase while on board is the best way to appreciate Thomas Telford's engineering masterpiece, with the canal passing through charming villages and beautiful countryside. The scenery is spectacular, from viewing majestic Glencoe and the towering mass of Ben Nevis to the striking reflections in the series of pretty lochs that link the canal. The area is full of historic attractions; anchoring off Castle Urquhart and the magical beauty of Loch Ness are some of the many major highlights. As it is almost impossible to find a great ship that has more than 6 state rooms, we have decided to use two sister ships that each have 6 ensuite cabins and a full crew.
In 2004 Glen Massan became the very first Majestic Line boat. A former fishing boat, this wooden hulled vessel was lovingly converted into a comfortable cruising vessel and transformed into a bespoke cruise ship. From the deck saloon, stairs lead to the spacious upper decks and the wheelhouse. You can even spend time in the wheelhouse chatting with the skipper and crew and perhaps even taking a spell at the helm. The crew have a wealth of information about the local history of the areas visited that day and aspects of marine interest. There are two top decks, the sheltered aft sun deck with sun loungers and the fore deck which is ideal for wildlife watching. Alternatively, there is plenty of space to find a corner to settle down with a book. All meals are served at the communal table in the deck saloon, although canapes and drinks are often served on the outdoor aft deck, which is accessible through French doors, to catch the last of the evening light. Early risers are welcomed by a hot drink and any other sustenance required until breakfast is served. The library stocks books on local maps, history, wildlife and attractions and a range of board and other games. There is a plasma screen in the deck saloon where scenes of local history and wildlife can be viewed or a film. The bar in the deck saloon is very well stocked, including an impressive choice of malt whiskies and gin, and is available at all times.
Like her sister ship Glen Massan, the Glen Tarsan is a lovingly converted wooden hulled former fishing boat and is now a comfortable small cruise ship perfect for exploring the magnificent Scottish coastline. The interior of Glen Tarsan is influenced by a 1930s gentleman's motor yacht. The spacious deck saloon provides a comfortable vantage point for relaxing and watching the constantly changing scenery. The deck saloon is where our guests gather and relax, it is always warm and comfortable with crew on hand, discreetly attentive. The windows allow fabulous panoramic views of the Highland coastline as the vessel gently cruises through the landscape. When the boat is at anchor the aft deck is the perfect place for milling after dinner, to share stories, watch a beautiful Scottish sunset, check out the stars and listen to the perfect silence broken only by the calls of birds and the gentle lapping of the water against the hull. The bar in the deck saloon is very well stocked, including an impressive choice of malt whiskies and gin, and is available at all times. A very popular boat with guests, Glen Tarsan was featured in the hit television series ‘Cruising with Jane McDonald’ on a ‘Mull and her Inlets and Islands’ cruise. We saw the show when it aired a few years ago and new immediately that we wanted to use this ship on a tour someday!
The second week will be spent in an a beautiful country house and grounds on the shores of Loch Lomond. Stuckgowan House lies in a most beautiful location on the western shores of Loch Lomond, beside the villages of Tarbet and Arrochar. Set within 34 acres of wild Highland forest, there is so much to explore right on the doorstep. There is secure gated access to the house, so we will enjoy complete privacy and tranquillity. And when you’re ready to venture further, there are plenty of wonderful things to do around Loch Lomond. With everything from wildlife walks, boat trips and history tours to thrilling watersports and outdoor adventures. While here we will have a Loch Lomond Cruise, a Loch Katrine Steamboat Trip and explore the magnificent Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park. This vast area of natural beauty is centered around the waters of Loch Lomond and the hills and glens of the Trossachs. Extending across the Highland Boundary Fault, it’s the place where the Highlands meets the Lowlands. Therefore, it has two very distinct and different types of landscape. From the towering mountains of the Highlands to the rolling hills of the Lowlands. We will also explore the villages and towns of Callander, Doune, Dunblane, Stirling, Alloa, Crieff, Comrie and many locations within and around the Queen Elizabeth Forest Park. We will have a Murder Mystery one evening, musical entertainment on another and Whisky and Gin Tasting on another.
Daily itinerary to follow at a later date.
Price includes all accommodation and meals which includes wine with dinner and an open bar in the evenings. Also includes all activities, sightseeing and entrance fees as listed in itinerary, along with all taxes, fees and service charges.
$10,995 per person. 1 Double or 2 Singles Available.
$1495 single supplement.
$1000 per person deposit.