A beautiful trip through the Caledonia Canal, that connects the North Sea with the Atlantic Ocean. It is one of the most beautiful waterways in the world.We start in Oban and sail along the west coast. From Fort William we will go straight through the mountains of the Scottish Highlands to Inverness.It offers beautiful landscapes and views. Four mountain lakes, of which Loch Ness is the most famous, but Loch Lochy, Loch Oich, and Loch Douchfour are also beautiful. They were connected with each other in 1822.

Embark / Disembark

• Embarkation: Oban October 12 from 6 p.m.
• Disembarkation: Inverness October 19, 10.00

Cost

The double cabins differ in size and are therefore divided into two categories.

• Standard cabin ………….€ 1195,- per person
• Standard plus………… € 1295,- per person
• Single cabin ……. € 1795,- per person (limited availability)

Including:

• Cabin based on private shower and toilet
• Crew consisting of: Captain-Mate-Cook.
• Use zodiac for landings.
• Half board including coffee-tea-milk and juice with meals.

Not included:

• Arrival and departure to the ship
• Personal expenses
• Any additional entrance fees and drinks
• Drinks on board

We sail with an international tour group on board. The crew is Dutch and speak English and German. Our guests of this sailing trip come from the Netherlands, Switzerland, England, Germany and Scotland.

Route planning

The specified program is a guide. Changes due to the effects of weather, current and wind are possible. Flexibility is required for this trip.

Day 1: Oban

On this beautiful Highlands & Loch Ness trip, we like to welcome you in Oban. Once you’ve embarked, you can meet the other participants and the crew. Around 19.00 there is a welcome dinner and we raise the glass on a nice trip. Oban is beautifully situated at the foot of the Lorn mountains. High above the city is McCraighs Tower, a nineteenth century replica of the Colosseum. Oban is sometimes called the pearl of the western highlands, with its winding streets and picturesque bay full of yachts, ferries and small fishing boats. The Flying Dutchman is located on the north pier, less than a hundred meters from the famous Oban whisky distillery.

Day 2: Mull

After a nice breakfast we go to Tobermory on the Isle of Mull. Along the way the crew gives sailing instructions so that everyone can and may help to hoist the sails. Along the way we sail past the beautifully restored Duart Castle. Tobermory is the largest town on the island, located in the northeast. It is a charming little place with brightly colored houses and a series of small businesses such as a chocolate shop, bakery, candle maker, silversmith, art gallery and potter. And of course we visit the famous Tobermory whiskey distillery.

Day 3: Fort William

After a beautiful evening with of course a lot of music we head towards Fort William, where the entrance to the Caledonia channel begins. We enjoy all there is to see along the way on the beautiful West Coast: space and views of the Isle of Mull and other beauties of unspoilt Scotland. We moor in Corpach with a view of Fort William and the highest mountain in the UK: the striking Ben Nevis.

Day 4: Caledonia Canal

Today, after spending the night in the first sea lock, we go to the famous Neptune’s Staircase, which are 8 locks in a row. We always attract a lot of attention, because we are one of the biggest ships that can go through the Canal and the locks. After the locks, we arrive in a fairy tale part of the canal with some little lakes now and then but sometimes also very narrow, with high rising trees in autumn colors, like we are sailing in the woods.

We sail trough enchanting lakes like Loch Lochy, Loch Oich and Loch Dochfour. And if it’s possible, we will sail upwards and let the wind take us over the magnificent lakes. Enjoy the tranquility of the water and the beautiful landscape that floats by. Watch the amazing skies and views. After a beautiful day with many photo moments, we arrive at Fort Augusta. There is a possibility to visit a cozy pub here.

Day 5: Loch Ness-Inverness

Today our beautiful Highlands & Loch Ness trip, will go through 6 locks to get to the famous Loch Ness. We might even see Nessie. Monster or not, it’s a wonderful trip through Scotland in an enchanting environment.

At the end of the day we are looking for a nice anchorage on the lake of Loch Ness. We make it into a beautiful and special musical evening.

Day 6: Inverness

After a nice musical evening and a good night’s rest, it continues on to Inverness and we arrived across Scotland on the East Coast. Inverness is a cozy city with authentic cafes, where we can enjoy traditional Scottish music in the evenings.

Finally we reach Inverness, a cozy city with authentic bars, where you can enjoy the traditional Scottish music at night.

Day 7: Inverness

We have traveled straight through Scotland from west to east and discovered the highlands from the water.After a good breakfast, it is time to say goodbye. This Highlands & Loch Ness trip was a breathtaking and beautiful experience.

Sailing vessel The Flying Dutchman

The Flying Dutchman is built in 1903. In 2004 Klaas bought this ship and reconstructed it in order to serve as a passengers’ ship that is able to sail the international waters. The ship has a worldwide license according to international safety rules and the ship has been outfitted with the latest navigation and communication systems.

The interior is warm and cosy. The mahogany wood adds to the maritime atmosphere. Refreshments can be found at the bar which is provided with a beer tab. Each cabin has its own bathroom with toilet and shower. Outside you will find plenty of spots to sit, relax and enjoy the passing scenery.