Gold Trusted Service Award
Gold Trusted Service Award
Awarded by Feefo, which independently collects reviews from our customers, the award recognizes businesses that consistently deliver a world-class customer experience.
Rosette
Boating expertise since 1969
With over 50 years of experience and expertise, we're passionate about providing unbeatable vacations on the water.
Compass
18 amazing destinations
Our extensive network of bases across 9 countries means you can enjoy a return-trip or choose from a wide selection of one-way routes.
Boat
World’s largest fleet
We have more river and canal boats available than any other operator, available to hire between April and October. Our wide range of boats sleeps between 2-12 people.
Buoy
No boat license required
That's right! You can rent and captain your own boat for a short break (3 nights minimum), a week or longer. We'll show you everything you need to know before you set off.
  • Gold Trusted Service Award
    Gold Trusted Service Award
    Awarded by Feefo, which independently collects reviews from our customers, the award recognizes businesses that consistently deliver a world-class customer experience.
  • Rosette
    Boating expertise since 1969
    With over 50 years of experience and expertise, we're passionate about providing unbeatable vacations on the water.
  • Compass
    18 amazing destinations
    Our extensive network of bases across 9 countries means you can enjoy a return-trip or choose from a wide selection of one-way routes.
  • Boat
    World’s largest fleet
    We have more river and canal boats available than any other operator, available to hire between April and October. Our wide range of boats sleeps between 2-12 people.
  • Buoy
    No boat license required
    That's right! You can rent and captain your own boat for a short break (3 nights minimum), a week or longer. We'll show you everything you need to know before you set off.
  • Gold Trusted Service Award
    Gold Trusted Service Award
    Awarded by Feefo, which independently collects reviews from our customers, the award recognizes businesses that consistently deliver a world-class customer experience.
  • Rosette
    Boating expertise since 1969
    With over 50 years of experience and expertise, we're passionate about providing unbeatable vacations on the water.
  • Compass
    18 amazing destinations
    Our extensive network of bases across 9 countries means you can enjoy a return-trip or choose from a wide selection of one-way routes.
  • Boat
    World’s largest fleet
    We have more river and canal boats available than any other operator, available to hire between April and October. Our wide range of boats sleeps between 2-12 people.
  • Buoy
    No boat license required
    That's right! You can rent and captain your own boat for a short break (3 nights minimum), a week or longer. We'll show you everything you need to know before you set off.
Le Boat - staycations in Scotland

Scotland boating staycations

Staycations in Scotland are more popular than before

We have seen an unprecedented demand for Scotland boating holidays and we know why... you'll be surprised how much a staycation on the Caledonian Canal has to offer. We think you'll be pleasantly surprised how much fun can be had right on your doorstep.

 

Scotland is the perfect staycation destination

Demand for holidays at home are at an all time high and there are plenty of reasons why a boating holiday is the perfect choice for your next staycation adventure. 

 

Le Boat - Your own personal space

Your own personal space

Our boats offer the perfect sanctuary for you and your family, or group of friends, to escape from it all and enjoy some quality time together.  Everything you need for a comfortable stay is on board - fully equipped kitchens, hot showers and comfortable cabins - and sundecks to enjoy the sunshine and dine alfresco.

No flying!

Pack up the car with provisions and your favorite creature comforts - the Caledonian Canal is just a drive away. No busy airports to contend with!

Beautiful Scottish Highlands

Surrounded by the great mountains of the stunning Scottish Highlands, the Caledonian Canal runs from Inverness down to Fort William, connecting a series of enormous lochs, including the famous Loch Ness  – miles away from big towns and cities and the perfect place to keep your distance from the crowds.

 

Le Boat - Loch Ness

Iconic Scottish sights

From the lofty peak of Ben Nevis, the UK's highest mountain, to the West Highlands Railway, the Jacobite steam train used as the Hogwarts Express in the series of Harry Potter films - the canal will take you to some truly memorable sights. Not to mention the opportunity to go in search of Nessie - the fabled monster of Loch Ness.

 

Get Active

Whether it's walking, mountain biking, horseback riding, canoeing or white water rafting, if you love active pursuits in the great outdoors, this region is a must. 

Steeped in history 

Scottish castles, Celtic myth and ancient monuments make this region a fascinating voyage of discovery and as you uncover Scotland's colourful heritage. Don't miss Urquhart Castle in Drumnadrochit, perched on the craggy cliffs overlooking Loch Ness.

Le Boat - Fishing

Fantastic fishing

What better way to escape the crowds and soak up the awe-inspiring scenery than to fish for the elusive salmon in Loch Ness. Or head to Loch Lochy for wild Brown Trout, Rainbow Trout and Pike.

20 Reasons why you'll love the Caledonian Canal

  1. The majestic splendour and beauty of the Scottish Highlands

  2. Ride the West Highland Railway (a.k.a. The Hogwarts Express of Harry Potter fame)

  3. Hunt for 'Nessie', the fabled monster of Loch Ness

  4. White-water rafting on the River Garry

  5. Find the spectacular 140ft 'Falls of Foyers'

  6. Visit the impressive ruins of Urquhart Castle overlooking Loch Ness

  7. Go pony trekking across the great Glens

  8. Explore Inverness, including Inverness Castle, Botanic Gardens,  Cathedral and more

  9. Pass effortlessly through electrical, manned locks

  10. Take a gondola up Aonach Mor for breathtaking views of Ben Nevis 

  11. Ascend the flight of five locks and explore the picturesque town of Fort Augustus

  12. Hire mountain bikes and go wild on one of many highland bike trails.

  13. Fish for wild rainbow trout, brown trout and pike in Loch Locky

  14. Let the kids loose on the high wire course, zip wires, paragliding and more at the Nevis Centre in Fort William

  15. Have a round of golf on a choice of courses not far from the canal

  16. Take a guided walk with Great Glen Adventures (or even abseiling or rock climbing)

  17. Abundant wildlife including red deer and ospreys

  18. The kids will love Nessieland with its mini golf, play park and model railway

  19. High-street shopping in Inverness and Fort William, or crafts and souvenirs in Fort Augustus 

  20. A tour of the Ben Nevis Whisky Distillery, followed by a tasting.

Find out more about the Caledonian Canal

Your next staycation itinerary

If you've never been on a boating holiday before, the concept is simple. We provide you with a boat, which will be your home and transport for the duration of your holiday. Boating is a lot of fun and a relaxing way of getting about. However, you will treasure the moments you leave your boat just as much. The waterways provide you with an ever-changing playground and somewhere new to explore, every day - you can do as little or as much as you like.

View our Scotland Staycation Itineraries