Exploring the Caledonian Canal from Oban to Inverness

YOUR SAILING AREA

Scotland, UK

Explore the lochs of the Scottish highlands as you sail and journey through the Caledonian Canal from Oban to Inverness. 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 Oban earlier, just let the boat know and you can drop your luggage off and spend some time exploring.)

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 first stop of our voyage.

Visit the Tobermory distillery as we anchor overnight before setting the sails towards Neptune’s staircase. 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.

Once we’ve completed Neptune’s Staircase, our next stop will be Fort Augustus, a small village on the south bank of the great Loch Ness.

Glide through the five canal locks toward Inverness as we anchor for the night in Loch Ness – home to the Loch Ness monster… Scotland’s second largest freshwater lake is 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.

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

Life Onboard the Flying Dutchman

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, and exploring ashore in hard-to-reach locations away from the tourist hustle and bustle. 

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 lifetime.

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 it 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 you’re well fed and looked after after a day of sailing the Scottish Seas. Breakfast, lunch, snacks, and 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 a comfortable area with lots of natural light. A combination of sofas and tables makes 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. She has ten ensuite twin cabins below decks, and all cabins have air conditioning or heating. All bedding and towels are provided.

The rear deck is layered with wood, emphasising 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.

Things to note

Sailing vs Shoretime

Nightwatches?

Kit list

The Flying Dutchman has limited space for possessions, so please be considerate and travel as light as possible. Each bunk is allocated a storage chest to store your items, but there is no storage for rigid cases so please bring your items in a soft bag or rucksack. 

We recommend a travelling light principal with lots of lightweight, easy-drying layers. Below is a list of recommended items, these are not mandatory and those who have sailed before may have their preferences!

• Fingerless gloves for hoisting sails (sailing or cycling are best)
• Walking boots/shoes for onshore & light shoes/trainers (with good grip)
• Please consider waterproof sailing boots
• Flip-flops or crocs for wet room showering
• Swimsuit and swim towel (optional) 
• Lightweight, quick-dry clothes (base layers, fleece and synthetic tops are both lightweight and quick-drying!)

It can be quite a few degrees colder out at sea so please bring lots of layers even if the forecast seems like a warm week!

• Warm, windproof and waterproof coat and trousers. 
• Sun cream (please use reef-safe, eco products where possible)
• Sunglasses and a warm hat/cap
• Refillable water bottle
• Small personal first aid kit and any medication you may need
• Camera/binoculars 
• Personal wash kit (please use reef-safe, eco products where possible)
• Smidge’ midge repellent – only necessary when sailing in Scotland
• Sleep masks and/or earplugs! (optional)
• Charging cables for personal devices 
• A good book to read!
• Consider a small backpack/bag for onshore exploring

Travel Documents

•  Please assume full responsibility for checking and verifying any passport, visa, vaccination, or other entry requirements to the country if/as required.

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

What’s included

The Flying Dutchman works on a half board basis to give guests a chance to experience the local cuisine. All breakfasts, tea, coffee and juice are included in the ticket price. Lunch and evening meals will be a 50/50 split of eating onboard (included in the ticket price) and eating ashore (not included in the ticket price). If the Flying Dutchman is not able to go ashore for any reason (weather related), guests will be able to eat onboard!

• All bedding (pillow, sheets & duvet) and wash towel
• Full crew plus tuition
• Marina and fuel fees
• All tender trips to and fro the boat
• Lifejacket

What’s not included

• Eating ashore
• Waterproofs
• Any flights
• Transit hotels
• Travel to and from the boat on the day of joining/leaving
• Travel insurance
• Sailing Insurance (Please read our Sailing Insurance page for more information)
• Crew tips
• Personal expenses

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 be not 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: Oban

To: Inverness

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

GETTING THERE

OBAN

PARKING

There is ample parking in Oban if you arrive by car. Secure parking can be found at MacQueen Bros, or you could try the Tesco carpark and pay for 24 hour parking on arrival using the Your Parking Space app.

BY RAIL

Oban station is a 5-10 minute walk from North Pier. Trains run 6 times a day to Glasgow Queen Street Station where there are good travel links to the rest of the UK.

BY AIR

Glasgow and Edinburgh Airport both require taking a train from Oban which takes approximately 2-3hours. Flights go direct to Stansted Airport.

STAY IN OBAN

There are plenty of places to stay in Oban. Try Witchwood House, The Scot or Perle Hotels Oban.

GETTING HOME

INVERNESS

BY RAIL

You can travel by rail overnight on the Caledonian Sleeper to London Euston from 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 from various main hubs in Scotland from the rest of the UK with National Express  and megabus. You will first need to catch a bus from Inverness operated by Scottish Citylink.

BY AIR

Direct flights go from Inverness Airport (INV) to 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.