Exploring the Caledonian Canal from Inverness to Oban

YOUR SAILING AREA

Scotland, UK

Explore the lochs of the Scottish highlands as you sail and journey through the Caledonian Canal from Inverness to Oban. This fascinating part of the world is the gateway to the highlands where mist shrouded mountains tumble down to meet the water’s edge. Discover the engineering feat of Neptune’s staircase and anchor in picturesque sea lochs – the perfect backdrop for the Flying Dutchman.

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Canal Gates and Sea Lochs

Hop aboard the Flying Dutchman at 6pm and after an introduction to the crew, dinner will be served at 7pm where you can get to know your fellow guests. (If you are arriving into Inverness earlier, just let the boat know and you can drop your luggage off and spend some time exploring.)

Glide through the five canal locks of Inverness before setting sails to reach the infamous Loch Ness – our anchorage for the night and home to the Loch Ness monster… The second largest fresh water lake in Scotland, it measures 23 miles long and over 750ft deep. It forms part of the Caledonian Canal which, constructed in the 19th century, connects Inverness to Fort William and has 29 locks along its length.

Our next stop will be Fort Augustus, a small village on the south bank of the great Loch Ness. Spend the morning exploring ashore here before completing another five locks up to reach Neptune’s staircase where will will anchor overnight.

Neptune’s staircase is a system of eight locks designed by Thomas Telford. The series of locks allows boat to rise an impressive 19.5 meters over a length of 457 meters. Originally manpowered, the locks now operate hydraulically and are the largest of their kind in the UK.

Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in Scotland provides an impressive backdrop for this part of the voyage and if there is time, we will aim to stop at the famous Ben Nevis distillery.

Once we have passed Fort William, the West coast awaits and we will set sail for the beautiful Loch Linnhe and the island of Lismore. Explore the ancient ruin of Castle Coeffin dating back to the Celts in the middle ages before sailing the Sound of Mull to the quaint harbour village of Tobermory on the island of Mull.

Described as one of the most beautiful harbours in Scotland, colourful houses curve the waterfront of Tobermory – the perfect last stop of our voyage. Visit the Tobermory distillery as we anchor overnight before heading back down the Sound of Mull to finish our voyage in Oban.

All voyages for Flying Dutchman

Flying Dutchman

Guest berths: 24 Rig: Schooner

Built in 1903, the Flying Dutchman has been recently re-fitted to a high standard for comfortable sailing holidays in Scotland. There is a huge 480m² sail area to propel you through the water and on the Flying Dutchman you will have the option to participate in helping the different sails up and getting to know all the different crafts. You will be guided by an experienced crew to help you with all the different crafts on the ship. If you want to steer the ship, do not hesitate to ask the captain.

The main saloon is a generous space with plenty of portholes providing comfortable area with lots of natural light. A combination of sofas and tables make it a great communal area to get to know your fellow guests and enjoy meals inside. There is also a well-stocked bar within the saloon area too. Below decks, there are ten ensuite cabins for guests with bunk beds, all with heating and air-conditioning depending on where you are in the world.

The rear deck is layered with wood, which emphasises the traditional atmosphere of the ship. On the main deck there are 3 different tables and couches to sit on, this area is covered to protect the guests from the rain. This offers the opportunity to stay outside and eat your dinner under the stars.

Deck plan

One of traditional sailing, sea-faring tales and breath-taking destinations, sailing with the Flying Dutchman is a far cry from its ancestral name. Although a traditionally rigged vessel with an authentic wooden boat feel throughout, the Flying Dutchman has been fitted as a charter vessel to a high, modern standard – providing guests with an authentic sailing experience while ensuring comfort and mod-cons are not forgotten.

Enjoy a balance of traditional sailing harnessing the power of the wind to spending time exploring ashore in hard to reach locations away from the tourist hustle and bustle. 

Life on board…

Offering sailing tall ship holidays in Scotland and the Hebrides, the Flying Dutchman aims to give guests a traditional tall ship adventure. Family owned and operated, the Flying Dutchman is perfect for solo travellers, couples or older families looking for that classic tall ship experience making memories that will certainly last a life time.

Getting Involved

The crew encourage guests to get involved with all aspects of sailing this fascinating schooner. She is traditionally rigged but also has a winch system so can be sailed comfortably by the crew if guests simply want to put their feet up and enjoy the views! From hoisting the sails, basic rope-work and even some simple navigation skills, you can get involved as much or as little as you’d like.  Once the sails are up you can enjoy the beauty of silently crossing the ocean using just the power of the wind.

Sleeping, eating and Relaxation

A designated chef ensures that you’re well fed and looked after after a day of sailing the Scottish Seas. Breakfast, lunch, snacks, soft and hot drinks are all included in the half board ticket price. Evening meals aboard are not included (unless you are tucked up in a secluded anchorage!) and this is done so that guests can experience true Scottish hospitality ashore and support the local economy while enjoying sustainable, local produce.

The main saloon is a generous space with plenty of portholes providing comfortable area with lots of natural light. A combination of sofas and tables make it a great communal area to get to know your fellow guests and enjoy meals inside. There is also a well-stocked bar within the saloon area too. She has ten ensuite twin cabins below decks and all cabins have air-conditioning or heating with all bedding and towels provided.

The rear deck is layered with wood, which emphasises the traditional atmosphere of the ship. On the main deck there are 3 different tables and couches to sit on, this area is covered to protect the guests from the rain. This offers the opportunity to stay outside and eat your dinner under the stars.

Sample Menu for the flying dutchman

Our menu varies on location, the weather and the rotation cook but this should give you an idea of what to expect.

Breakfast

(Alternating Full English and Continental)

• FULL ENGLISH – Eggs, bacon, sausages, black pudding, haggis
• CONTINENTAL – Waffles, scones, croissants, eggs, porridge
  served everyday…
• Cereal, yoghurt, fruit salad
• Cold cuts & cheese platter
• Orange juice, milk

Lunch

• Soups with bread (garlic, mini-pizza, onion)
• Pasta salad with side dishes
• Mussels
• Local seafood

Dinner

All meals are served in dishes per table. Every dinner consists of a main course, including a salad and some sides and a dessert. The last evening we’ll have a more extensive meal including a starter (scallops, prawns, smoked venison, etc. depending on availability). Normally the diners are alternating fish or meat.

• Home-made shepherds pie
• Casserole
• Fish or chicken curry
• Fresh salmon
• Beef stew
• Paella

Travel insurance notes

As this is an active adventure holiday, we advise that everyone has the appropriate personal accident travel insurance whilst onboard in addition to standard travel insurance which would cover you in the time between making your booking and departing for your adventure. These policies can sometimes be combined so please check with your travel insurance provider.

Please read more information on our Insurance guidelines page.

This voyage will not be more than 12miles offshore.

FAQ

• Are all meals included?

  Breakfast, lunch, snacks & soft drinks are included.

• Can you cater for dietary needs?

  Meat eaters and vegetarians only.

• Are there any added extra's?

  Evening meals are not included - these are eaten ashore at guests expense.

• What are the sleeping arrangements?

  10x twin ensuite cabins and 1x four berth ensuite cabin.

• Is there a porthole in my cabin?

  Yes, every cabin has a porthole.

• How many toilet/showers does she have?

  11

• Are bedding and towels included?

  All bedding and a towel is included but please bring your own swim towels (if needed). Micro-fibres are a great lightweight, quick-drying alternative.

• Is there a hairdryer on board?

  No, please do not bring one. The sea breeze makes a great natural alternative!

• Will I be able to wash my clothes?

  No, the Flying Dutchman does not have laundry on board.

• Is there heating/air conditioning onboard?

  Yes.

• Do I need to tip the crew?

  Tips are not mandatory but very much appreciated.

• What language is spoken onboard?

  German/English.

• Is there WIFI?

  No! It's time to disconnect from the modern conforms and reconnect with nature! When within shore range, you should be able to reach 4/5G. Please make sure you have international roaming set up on your data plan.

• Can I charge my phone/Camera?

  Yes, there are 220v sockets in every cabin so please bring a 2pin EU adaptor.

• What is the currency on board?

  Euros.

• Are there life jackets provided?

  Yes.

• How do I get on and off the boat?

  The Flying Dutchman is often at anchor so you'll need to be comfortable climbing in and out of the tender dinghy and climbing up and over the gunwale - there will always be a crew member to steady.

• Are Waterproofs provided?

  No, please bring your own.

• Do I need sailing experience?

  No, absolutely not! Just a lust for adventure.

• Does the boat have any water toys?

  No.

• Will I be sea sick?

  Everyone reacts differently but we recommend if you are at all worried to take some medication 24 hours before departure.

• Is there an age limit?

  Over 18's only - no upper age limit, only one rule: You must be able to climb stairs!

Travel Planning

From: Inverness

To: Oban

To see where the ports are, along with your likely sailing area, please view the sail area & highlights.

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Inverness

BY RAIL:

You can travel by rail overnight on the Caledonian Sleeper from London Euston to Inverness.
Inverness station is right in the town centre with easy travel links from the ScotRail mainline. The station is about a ten minute walk from the Marina.

BY COACH:

You can travel by coach to various main hubs in Scotland from the rest of the UK with National Express  and megabus. You will then need to change for Inverness onto a service operated by Scottish Citylink.

BY AIR:

Direct flights go to Inverness Airport (INV) from London Luton (LTN), London Gatwick (LGW) and Bristol (BRS) with easyJet, London Heathrow (LHR) with British Airways and Manchester (MAN) and Birmingham (BHX) with Logan Air and British Airways.

Inverness Airport is a 15 minute taxi ride from the Wharf, or catch the No.11 bus from the town bus station which takes about 50 minutes.

Oban

BY RAIL:

You can travel by rail to/from Glasgow Central or Glasgow Queen Street, depending on where you’re coming from in the country. You can also travel overnight on the Caledonian Sleeper from London Euston to Glasgow.
Then from Glasgow Queen Street Station trains run 6 times a day to Oban. Oban Station is just a 5-10 minute walk to North Pier.

BY COACH:

You can travel by coach to Glasgow Buchanan Bus Station from the rest of the UK with National Express and megabus.

BY AIR:

Glasgow and Edinburgh Airport both require taking a train from Oban which takes approximately 2-3hours.

Direct flights go to Glasgow Airport (GLA) from London Heathrow with British Airways.