Classic Scotland Barge Cruise
On this relaxed 7-day barge cruise, meander through the Scottish Highlands, taking in castles, bagpipes, whiskey and rich cultural heritage. The 8-guest Scottish Highlander or 12-guest Spirit of Scotland offer cozy respite, gourmet food and wine, and bikes on board.
For a magical barge cruise, Scotland is hard to surpass. On the 7-day Classic Scotland Barge Cruise, coast sedately through the Great Glen between Inverness and Fort William, navigating beautiful lochs and the engineering masterpiece that is the Caledonian Canal. Ancient castles perched on the water’s edge, heather-clad hillsides and arguably the finest inland cruising in the world make for unforgettable experiences on a handpicked barge cruise. Scotland’s legends of the past, the taste of single malt and the mythical inhabitant of Loch Ness all contribute to a magical charm only experienced in the dramatic Highlands.
Travel the Great Glen along the Caledonian Canal, experiencing various lochs along the way, including the infamous Loch Ness. Try a hand at falconry during a stop at the spectacular Highlands Club. Tour castles and stately homes. Taste classic Scottish single malt whiskeys at a local distillery, and experience historic points of interest including the grounds of the Battle of Culloden. Each visit on this Scotland barge cruise, whether steps from the ship or a short drive away from the dock, will further expose the rich culture and heritage of the Scottish Highlands. Regular opportunities to walk and bike among the countryside also immerse active adventurers in this scenic part of Scotland.
Each departure of the Classic Scotland Barge Cruise operates round-trip from Inverness, Scotland, either cruising southwest to Fort Williams and returning via overland transfer back to Inverness, or in reverse starting with an overland transfer to Fort Williams and cruising northeast back to Inverness. Each departure’s direction is typically confirmed 6-8 weeks in advance.
The 8-passenger Scottish Highlander and 12-guest Spirit of Scotland are designed specifically for this intimate Scotland river cruise, with plenty of interior and exterior viewing space that invites the mysterious northern Scottish countryside into the hearts and memories of travelers. Aboard either of these Scottish country house barges, enjoy gourmet cuisine paired with fine wines, an attentive staff, a fully-stocked bar open 24 hours, and charming ambiance ready to welcome small groups.
Consider securing Scottish Highlander or Spirit of Scotland for private charter cruises in Scotland, with theme options including whiskey, golf, horse-riding, fishing and family cruises, or customize your own Scotland barge tour itinerary.
Read on for details about this small Scotland river cruise, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s Northern Europe cruises.
Classic Cruise—Scotland Itinerary
The main Classic Scotland Barge Cruise operates round-trip from Inverness. Embark in Inverness and cruise southwest to Banavie at Fort William, with an overland transfer northeast back to Inverness. Along the way, explore castles, historic points of interest, a whiskey distillery and charming villages.
Be met at the designated meeting point in Inverness and transferred by private chauffeured minibus to the ship. Enjoy a champagne welcome and perhaps an early evening stroll to the sea lock with wonderful views over the Moray and Beauly Firths. Then perhaps savor one of the hotel barge’s many single malts before your first dinner on board.
The first cruise is up the Muirtown lock flight and through the Tomnahurich swing bridge, with an option to walk alongside River Ness to the hamlet of Dochgarroch. After lunch on board, enjoy a a visit to Cawdor Castle, forever immortalized in Shakespeare’s Scottish play, Macbeth. The picturesque gardens have been listed amongst the top 100 in the UK. The castle contains a superb collection of tapestries, pictures and furnishings and the Dowager Countess of Cawdor still lives there for part of the year. Dinner on board.
This morning enjoy a visit to Culloden Moor, scene of the last major battle on British soil in 1746 where English Government troops faced the Highlanders of Bonnie Prince Charlie. If time allows, take a tour of Clava Cairns, a pre-historic clan chieftain burial site dating back to 2,000 B.C and setting for the Outlander TV series. After lunch on board, cruise through Loch Dochfour and across Loch Ness, where en-route you pass Urquhart Castle, navigating closely beneath its spectacular 13th century ruins, before continuing your cruise to Fort Augustus. Dinner on board.
After breakfast, visit the private Highland Club, a spectacular exclusive set of residences and a former 19th century Benedictine Monastery. Weather permitting, be treated to a falconry and birds of prey demonstration on the banks of Loch Ness. The majesty of the swooping birds against the backdrop of the sweeping Scottish Highlands is not easily forgotten. There is time to explore the pretty village of Fort Augustus before lunch on board, after which the barge cruises up the flight of locks and then on to a pretty mooring at Kytra. This evening, enjoye a tutored private whisky tasting at charming The Glenmoriston Arms Hotel, followed by dinner in the hotel restaurant.
This morning’s cruise can be partially walked as the barge crosses the very scenic Loch Oich, perhaps stopping en route for a spot of fishing, and onto the pretty Laggan Avenue. As the barge approaches Laggan, a Highland Piper may greet with a stirring rendition of traditional Scottish music. After lunch on board take in some of the finest scenery Scotland has to offer on a drive to one of its best known and most photographed castles, Eilean Donan, which has been featured in movies such as “Highlander” and James Bond’s “The World Is Not Enough” and overlooks three sea lochs. Dinner on board.
The final cruise today passes through Moy Bridge, the last fully hand-operated bridge on the waterway, before mooring at Banavie beneath Ben Nevis and a stroll from Neptune’s Staircase leading down to Loch Eil. After lunch on board, visit the renowned Dalwhinnie Distillery, standing in the Cairngorms National Park. Tour the distillery and taste some single malts paired with a selection of delicious chocolates. If time permits, also visit the ruins of Old Inverlochy Castle. Captain’s farewell dinner on board and of course, the opportunity to enjoy another wee dram or two.
After breakfast, be transferred by private chauffeured minibus to your choice of location in Inverness.
Included
Local transfers between Inverness and the hotel barge (the approximate transfer duration is 15 minutes or 2 hours depending on the cruise direction), a luxury 6-night cruise, all meals on board catered for by the onboard Master Chef, an open bar 24/7 with a large range of alcoholic and non alcoholic drinks including a whiskey bar, all wines served throughout the cruise, excursions and admittance fees as per the itinerary, the services of crew members and use of barge facilities including bicycles and either a sonic fish finder (Scottish Highlander) or outdoor spa-pool (Spirit of Scotland).
Exclusions
Air transportation; insurance of any kind; gratuities.
Payment & Cancellation
In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 25% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
91 or more days – 100% of deposit
90-0 days – 100% of total trip cost
Terms & Conditions
This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.
Arrival & Departure
The main Classic Scotland Barge Cruise operates round-trip from Inverness, Scotland (INV), cruising to Banavie and ending with an overland transfer back to Inverness. We highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues. Plan flights to arrive to Inverness in time for the 3:30-4:00pm group transfer from the Kingsmills Hotel to the ship on Day 1 of the itinerary. Disembarkation follows breakfast on the final day. Plan flights to depart Inverness no earlier than 1:00pm on the final day, or opt to be transferred back to the Kingsmills Hotel (or your choice of location within Inverness) between 9:45 and 11:00am. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.
Activities
European barge cruises operate at a relaxed pace, with options for walking, biking and possible fishing when weather and time permit. On the Classic Scotland Barge Cruise, guests may opt to ride a bicycle for longer, pre-researched routes, meeting the ship farther along its route for the day.
Room Configuration
Single travelers wishing to book a double-occupancy room may do so at the following supplements in addition to the per-person listed rate, in select cabins upon availability:
2025:
– $2,100 (Scottish Highlander, value departures)
– $2,400 (Scottish Highlander, regular departures)
– $2,200 (Spirit of Scotland, value departures)
– $2,600 (Spirit of Scotland, regular departures)
2026:
– $2,200 (Scottish Highlander, value departures)
– $2,500 (Scottish Highlander, regular departures)
– $2,300 (Spirit of Scotland, value departures)
– $2,700 (Spirit of Scotland, regular departures)
Families & Children
Children 12 years and older are welcomed aboard all departure dates; children 11 years and under are allowed on special Family Departures or any charter. Children under the age of 18 are eligible for $300 off the double occupancy rate.
Travel Insurance
Protect your travel investment with insurance. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. For best value and coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, consider purchasing a policy at time of booking. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.
Itinerary Notes
Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, wildlife, national park regulation or at the captain’s discretion. The ability to be flexible makes this type of small ship cruising unique.
Reverse Classic Cruise—Scotland Itinerary
The reverse Classic Scotland Barge Cruise operates round-trip from Inverness. Begin with an overland transfer southwest to Banavie at Fort William, then cruise northeast back to Inverness. Along the way, explore castles, historic points of interest, a whiskey distillery and charming villages.
Be met at the Kingsmills Hotel Townhouse Hotel in Inverness and transferred by private chauffeured minibus to the ship. A champagne welcome by the captain and crew and perhaps an early evening stroll before the first dinner on board.
Today head from Loch Eil to Neptune’s Staircase en route to visit the renowned Dalwhinnie Distillery, standing in the Cairngorms National Park. Tour the distillery and taste some single malts paired with a selection of delicious chocolates. If time permits, also visit the ruins of Old Inverlochy Castle. Captain’s farewell dinner on board and of course, the opportunity to enjoy another wee dram or two. After lunch on board, pass through Moy Bridge, the last fully hand-operated bridge on the waterway. As the ship approaches her first mooring at Laggan, a Highland Piper may be there to greet with a stirring rendition of traditional Scottish music. Dinner on board.
This morning cruise across the very scenic Loch Oich, perhaps stopping en route for a spot of fishing or a gentle stroll, then onto a pretty mooring at Kytra. After lunch on board, take in some of the finest scenery Scotland has to offer while driving to one of its best known and most photographed castles, Eilean Donan, which has featured in movies such as “Highlander” and James Bond’s “The World Is Not Enough” and overlooks three sea lochs. Dinner on board.
After breakfast, visit the private Highland Club, a spectacular exclusive set of residences and a former 19th century Benedictine Monastery. Weather permitting, be treated to a falconry and birds of prey demonstration on the banks of Loch Ness. The majesty of the swooping birds against the backdrop of the sweeping Scottish Highlands is not easily forgotten. There is time to explore the pretty village of Kytra before lunch on board, after which the ship cruises to Fort Augustus and down the flight of locks as the locals call it, to moor opposite the Benedictine Abbey at the entrance to Loch Ness. This evening, dine ashore at a local restaurant.
This morning continue the cruise from Fort Augustus, then cruise through Loch Dochfour and across Loch Ness, passing Urquhart Castle and navigating closely beneath its spectacular 13th century ruins. After lunch on board, visit Culloden Moor, scene of the last major battle on British soil in 1746 where English Government troops faced the Highlanders of “Bonnie Prince Charlie.” If time allows, take a tour of Clava Cairns, a pre-historic clan chieftain burial site dating back to 2,000 B.C and setting for the Outlander TV series. Dinner on board.
This morning, the final cruise takes the ship through the Tomnahurich swing bridge, with an option to walk alongside River Ness to the hamlet of Dochgarroch. After lunch on board, enjoy a a visit to Cawdor Castle (or Fort George for April & October departures), forever immortalized in Shakespeare’s Scottish play, Macbeth. The picturesque gardens have been listed amongst the top 100 in the UK. The castle contains a superb collection of tapestries, pictures and furnishings and the Dowager Countess of Cawdor still lives there for part of the year. Dinner on board.
After breakfast, disembark and be transferred by private chauffeured minibus to your choice of location in Inverness.
Included
Local transfers between Inverness and the hotel barge (the approximate transfer duration is 15 minutes or 2 hours depending on the cruise direction), a luxury 6-night cruise, all meals on board catered for by the onboard Master Chef, an open bar 24/7 with a large range of alcoholic and non alcoholic drinks including a whiskey bar, all wines served throughout the cruise, excursions and admittance fees as per the itinerary, the services of crew members and use of barge facilities including bicycles and either a sonic fish finder (Scottish Highlander) or outdoor spa-pool (Spirit of Scotland).
Exclusions
Air transportation; insurance of any kind; gratuities.
Payment & Cancellation
In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 25% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
91 or more days – 100% of deposit
90-0 days – 100% of total trip cost
Terms & Conditions
This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.
Arrival & Departure
The reverse Classic Scotland Barge Cruise operates round-trip from Inverness, Scotland (INV), beginning with an overland transfer to Banavie and cruising to end back in Inverness. We highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues. Plan flights to arrive to Inverness in time for the 3:30-4:00pm group transfer from the Kingsmills Hotel to the ship on Day 1 of the itinerary. Disembarkation follows breakfast on the final day. Plan flights to depart Inverness no earlier than 1:00pm on the final day, or opt to be transferred back to the Kingsmills Hotel (or your choice of location within Inverness) between 9:45 and 11:00am. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.
Activities
European barge cruises operate at a relaxed pace, with options for walking, biking and possible fishing when weather and time permit. On the Classic Scotland Barge Cruise, guests may opt to ride a bicycle for longer, pre-researched routes, meeting the ship farther along its route for the day.
Room Configuration
Single travelers wishing to book a double-occupancy room may do so at the following supplements in addition to the per-person listed rate, in select cabins upon availability:
2025:
– $2,100 (Scottish Highlander, value departures)
– $2,400 (Scottish Highlander, regular departures)
– $2,200 (Spirit of Scotland, value departures)
– $2,600 (Spirit of Scotland, regular departures)
2026:
– $2,200 (Scottish Highlander, value departures)
– $2,500 (Scottish Highlander, regular departures)
– $2,300 (Spirit of Scotland, value departures)
– $2,700 (Spirit of Scotland, regular departures)
Families & Children
Children 12 years and older are welcomed aboard all departure dates; children 11 years and under are allowed on special Family Departures or any charter. Children under the age of 18 are eligible for $300 off the double occupancy rate.
Travel Insurance
Protect your travel investment with insurance. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. For best value and coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, consider purchasing a policy at time of booking. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.
Itinerary Notes
Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, wildlife, national park regulation or at the captain’s discretion. The ability to be flexible makes this type of small ship cruising unique.
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The 8-guest Scottish Highlander barge welcomes her guests to Scotland's Highlands with an atmosphere of a comfortable country house adorned with subtle tartan furnishings and landscape paintings. Voyage through the Great Glen aboard this spacious and warm floating hotel, complete with a well-stocked whiskey bar and gourmet gastronomic delights paired with fine wines to delight while cruising through the Caledonian Canal.
Scottish Highlander Barge Review
AdventureSmith Explorations’ Scottish Highlander review includes a detailed description of the small ship including deck plans and a photo gallery. Please read our Scottish Highlander barge review below then contact our small ship cruise experts to compare the Scottish Highlander with other small cruise ships and yachts offering small ship cruises in Northern Europe.
Choose the Scottish Highlander barge if you are seeking a classic Scottish country house feel with an intimate guest count and culinary delights. This hotel barge offers wonderful river, canal and loch cruising and dually provides excellent opportunities for walking and biking along the way. This Scottish hotel barge is also an excellent option for private charter cruises, with themes including whiskey, golf, horse-riding, fishing and family cruises, or customize your own itinerary.
Common Areas Aboard Scottish Highlander
With warm wooden mahogany interiors and woven Scottish tartans, the Scottish Highlander's cozy spaces ensure guests feel right at home. Her welcoming saloon features rich-colored wooden paneling, large picture windows and comfortable leather Chesterfield sofas to relax in, perhaps with a mellow single malt whiskey from the well-stocked bar. The comfortable, enclosed observation area behind the wheelhouse enables protected views of the passing scenery, as well as the ability to chat with the captain about life on the Caledonian Canal and its interconnecting lochs. The captain may even share insights into using the ship's compass, depth sounder and chart plotter. The forward, exterior sun deck area provides additional seating and far-reaching views of the rugged highland landscape.
Dining Aboard Scottish Highlander
All eight guests may dine together with open seating at the casual yet classy dining table. While the ambiance is relaxed and informal, the gourmet fare and wine pairings ensure daily culinary delights. Cuisine is traditional Scottish fare, with the creative chef preparing fresh dishes using locally sourced game and beef, wild salmon and seafood paired with a selection of fine international wines. Many allergies and special diets such as vegetarian, vegan and no fish may be accommodated with advanced notice.
Most meals offer a set menu highlighting both international and traditional Scottish fare. Breakfast may feature a full Scottish cooked meal or continental-style options such as toast, fruit, cereals, fruit juices, tea and coffee. Lunch usually consists of a light meal with salads, pates and fish dishes, and the occasional outdoor picnic. Lunch may offer a 3-course sit-down affair, or hot soups on colder days. Dinner is always a gastronomic adventure with a taste of regional cuisine by candlelight, harmonizing food and good wines, followed by a selection of regional cheeses, coffee and liqueurs.
Non-alcoholic beverages, coffee and tea are included, with a Nespresso Coffee machine offering an a la carte menu of specialty coffees. Additionally, the well-stocked bar is open 24 hours, with all-included wines, spirits, beers, soft drinks and a wide range of Scottish single malt whiskies. All house wines are provided with meals and guests may enjoy a champagne welcome on arrival.
Activities Aboard Scottish Highlander
This Scottish hotel barge carries umbrellas as well as four general purpose and four folding bikes on board. Children’s bikes, helmets and child bike seats can be arranged with advanced notice. Bicycles are available almost anytime, to explore the countryside while the ship slowly meanders the Caledonian Canal or while the barge is stationary. Cycle the towpath alongside the hotel barge, or go farther inland on researched routes with a written guide, knowing the ship will arrange to meet up in a designated place. Onboard entertainment options include a small library of books and maps, a collection of board games, binoculars for birding, a stereo system with CDs and WiFi access via personal devices.
Cabins & Deck Plan Aboard Scottish Highlander
The Scottish Highlander barge offers accommodation for eight guests in three staterooms and one junior suite, each one centrally heated plus a cooling fan and en suite facilities. Choose between two twin beds or one double bed. Each cabin's bathroom offers a shower, wash-basin, toilet, heated towel rack, 110v shaver socket, towels, hand soap, shower gel, shampoo, hair dryers, slippers, bathrobes and an air extractor fan (except the Cameron Suite which has a porthole).
The elegant 12-guest Spirit of Scotland barge is a purpose-built small ship offering extensive public areas inside and out that feature the breathtaking Highlands scenery. Cruise the Caledonian Canal and the lochs of the Great Glen in comfort and style aboard a modern-made hotel barge that evokes the traditional steamers that plied the lochs of Scotland in times gone by.
Spirit of Scotland Barge Review
AdventureSmith Explorations’ Spirit of Scotland review includes a detailed description of the small ship including deck plans and a photo gallery. Our Northern Europe experts have been aboard the Spirit of Scotland firsthand. Please read our Spirit of Scotland barge review below then contact our small ship cruise experts to compare the Spirit of Scotland with other small cruise ships and yachts offering small ship cruises in Northern Europe.
Choose the Spirit of Scotland barge for a classy ambiance paired with gourmet food, exemplary wines and fine whiskey. Cruise Scotland's mysterious rivers, canals and lochs with opportunities to explore by bike and on foot along the way. This Scottish barge is also an ideal ship for private charter cruises, with theme options including whiskey, golf, horse-riding, fishing and family cruises, or customize your own itinerary. After having been aboard, we loved the large covered sundeck, hot tub, bicycles (enough for each guest) and attentive hosts on board. It's a ship that easy to feel home on right from the start. Aesthetically, there is just enough plaid to conjure up the Scottish vibe, and the bar is fully equipped with a variety of Scotch whiskey to taste.
Common Areas Aboard Spirit of Scotland
Spirit of Scotland's bright and spacious interior saloon and dining area is lined with picture windows to take in the beauty of Scotland's moors as the hotel barge slowly winds through her pristine surroundings. A separate bar offers a large selection of whiskey and a selection of international fine wines. An integral forward wheelhouse invites guests to view the cruise route ahead as the ship steams forward.
Outside, separate areas offer relaxation, whether on a recliner or in the heated spa pool, as well as a covered dining terrace. The large upper sun deck is the ideal place to admire the dramatic backdrop including historic landmarks, while cruising along deep-water lochs.
Dining Aboard Spirit of Scotland
The full complement of 12 guests may dine together with open seating at the dining table. While the atmosphere is casual, the gourmet fare and wine pairings ensure gastronomic delights may be enjoyed by all on a daily basis. The featured cuisine is traditional Scottish foods and international favorites, with the creative chef preparing fresh dishes using locally sourced game and beef, wild salmon and seafood paired with a selection of fine international wines. Many allergies and special diets such as vegetarian, vegan and no fish may be accommodated with advanced notice.
Breakfast may feature a full Scottish cooked meal or continental-style options such as toast, fruit, cereals, fruit juices, tea and coffee. Lunch usually consists of a light meal with salads, pates and fish dishes, and the occasional outdoor picnic. Lunch may offer a 3-course sit-down affair, or hot soups on colder days. Dinner is always a gastronomic adventure with a taste of regional cuisine by candlelight, harmonizing food and good wines, followed by a selection of regional cheeses, coffee and liqueurs.
Non-alcoholic beverages, coffee and tea are included, as are drinks from the well-stocked bar. Open 24 hours, the bar offers wines, spirits, a wide range of Scottish single malt whiskies, beers and soft drinks. All house wines are provided with meals and guests may enjoy a champagne welcome on arrival.
Activities Aboard Spirit of Scotland
This Scottish hotel barge meets its two on-land vehicles, an 8-seat and a six-seat van, for transfers and excursions when she docks. The ship welcomes guests to remain on board during excursions as desired, or guests may choose to walk or ride a bike both during excursions or while the barge cruises. Eight bicycles and helmets are carried on board, with children's bike equipment available with advanced notice. Umbrellas are also available if the weather merits their use.
On board, passengers may enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi on their personal devices while in the salon and dining area, although connectivity can be limited in remote locations. Two USB ports are available in the upstairs saloon, as is a radio and iPod docking station. The heated hot tub out on deck encourages relaxation while the Scottish barge slowly moves along. Entertainment options also include a small library of books and maps to peruse, a collection of board games to play and binoculars for spotting birds. The open bridge invites guests to chat with the captain and perhaps learn about the ship's radar and depth sounder.
Cabins & Deck Plan Aboard Spirit of Scotland
The Spirit of Scotland's six air-conditioned cabins each offers a choice of twin or double beds for an intimate size of 12 guests total. Each stateroom is complemented by a fully tiled ensuite bathroom with power-shower, sink, toilet, towels, hand soap, shower gel, shampoo, hair dryer, slippers and bathrobes. All cabins also offer a safe plus polished walnut furniture including a large wardrobe with three sections, a fitted desk with drawer and cupboard below, and a bedside table with drawer and cupboard. A reading light and USB port adjoins each bed. A television with DVD capabilities offers in-room entertainment. The barge is wired for 220 volts, with sockets which correspond to the standard European two-pin plug.
The elegant 12-guest Spirit of Scotland barge is a purpose-built small ship offering extensive public areas inside and out that feature the breathtaking Highlands scenery. Cruise the Caledonian Canal and the lochs of the Great Glen in comfort and style aboard a modern-made hotel barge that evokes the traditional steamers that plied the lochs of Scotland in times gone by.
Spirit of Scotland Barge Review
AdventureSmith Explorations’ Spirit of Scotland review includes a detailed description of the small ship including deck plans and a photo gallery. Our Northern Europe experts have been aboard the Spirit of Scotland firsthand. Please read our Spirit of Scotland barge review below then contact our small ship cruise experts to compare the Spirit of Scotland with other small cruise ships and yachts offering small ship cruises in Northern Europe.
Choose the Spirit of Scotland barge for a classy ambiance paired with gourmet food, exemplary wines and fine whiskey. Cruise Scotland's mysterious rivers, canals and lochs with opportunities to explore by bike and on foot along the way. This Scottish barge is also an ideal ship for private charter cruises, with theme options including whiskey, golf, horse-riding, fishing and family cruises, or customize your own itinerary. After having been aboard, we loved the large covered sundeck, hot tub, bicycles (enough for each guest) and attentive hosts on board. It's a ship that easy to feel home on right from the start. Aesthetically, there is just enough plaid to conjure up the Scottish vibe, and the bar is fully equipped with a variety of Scotch whiskey to taste.
Common Areas Aboard Spirit of Scotland
Spirit of Scotland's bright and spacious interior saloon and dining area is lined with picture windows to take in the beauty of Scotland's moors as the hotel barge slowly winds through her pristine surroundings. A separate bar offers a large selection of whiskey and a selection of international fine wines. An integral forward wheelhouse invites guests to view the cruise route ahead as the ship steams forward.
Outside, separate areas offer relaxation, whether on a recliner or in the heated spa pool, as well as a covered dining terrace. The large upper sun deck is the ideal place to admire the dramatic backdrop including historic landmarks, while cruising along deep-water lochs.
Dining Aboard Spirit of Scotland
The full complement of 12 guests may dine together with open seating at the dining table. While the atmosphere is casual, the gourmet fare and wine pairings ensure gastronomic delights may be enjoyed by all on a daily basis. The featured cuisine is traditional Scottish foods and international favorites, with the creative chef preparing fresh dishes using locally sourced game and beef, wild salmon and seafood paired with a selection of fine international wines. Many allergies and special diets such as vegetarian, vegan and no fish may be accommodated with advanced notice.
Breakfast may feature a full Scottish cooked meal or continental-style options such as toast, fruit, cereals, fruit juices, tea and coffee. Lunch usually consists of a light meal with salads, pates and fish dishes, and the occasional outdoor picnic. Lunch may offer a 3-course sit-down affair, or hot soups on colder days. Dinner is always a gastronomic adventure with a taste of regional cuisine by candlelight, harmonizing food and good wines, followed by a selection of regional cheeses, coffee and liqueurs.
Non-alcoholic beverages, coffee and tea are included, as are drinks from the well-stocked bar. Open 24 hours, the bar offers wines, spirits, a wide range of Scottish single malt whiskies, beers and soft drinks. All house wines are provided with meals and guests may enjoy a champagne welcome on arrival.
Activities Aboard Spirit of Scotland
This Scottish hotel barge meets its two on-land vehicles, an 8-seat and a six-seat van, for transfers and excursions when she docks. The ship welcomes guests to remain on board during excursions as desired, or guests may choose to walk or ride a bike both during excursions or while the barge cruises. Eight bicycles and helmets are carried on board, with children's bike equipment available with advanced notice. Umbrellas are also available if the weather merits their use.
On board, passengers may enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi on their personal devices while in the salon and dining area, although connectivity can be limited in remote locations. Two USB ports are available in the upstairs saloon, as is a radio and iPod docking station. The heated hot tub out on deck encourages relaxation while the Scottish barge slowly moves along. Entertainment options also include a small library of books and maps to peruse, a collection of board games to play and binoculars for spotting birds. The open bridge invites guests to chat with the captain and perhaps learn about the ship's radar and depth sounder.
Cabins & Deck Plan Aboard Spirit of Scotland
The Spirit of Scotland's six air-conditioned cabins each offers a choice of twin or double beds for an intimate size of 12 guests total. Each stateroom is complemented by a fully tiled ensuite bathroom with power-shower, sink, toilet, towels, hand soap, shower gel, shampoo, hair dryer, slippers and bathrobes. All cabins also offer a safe plus polished walnut furniture including a large wardrobe with three sections, a fitted desk with drawer and cupboard below, and a bedside table with drawer and cupboard. A reading light and USB port adjoins each bed. A television with DVD capabilities offers in-room entertainment. The barge is wired for 220 volts, with sockets which correspond to the standard European two-pin plug.
Current Deals on This Trip
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Choose the Small Ship that Fits Your Travel Style
The Scottish Highlander barge offers the feel of a country home while cruising through the Caledonian Canal. Enjoy this classic Scotland hotel barge with an attentive crew, fine whiskey and wine paired with extraordinary meals, bicycles on board and custom charter options including whiskey, golf, horse-riding, fishing and family cruises.
The Spirit of Scotland barge offers an elegant floating hotel while cruising through the Caledonian Canal. Cruise Scotland in comfort aboard this classic hotel barge stocked with fine whiskey and wine, sumptuous meals and bikes. Custom charter themes include whiskey, golf, horse-riding, fishing and family cruises.
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Scotland’s Highlands & Islands
Canals & open sea cruise with Nat Geo guides & small-scale ship
Save up to 20%
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Scottish Isles & Norwegian Fjords
High-end Scotland to Norway cruise with on- & off-ship entertainment
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