sailscotland 2020

Capture some #CanalMagic Whether you’re sailing in the shadow of Ben Nevis, taking a turn on the world’s only rotating boat lift, or cruising through “Britain’s most beautiful shortcut,” Scotland’s canals offer an array of incredible experiences. What will you discover?

@ScottishCanals

Caledonian Canal Often considered one of the greatest waterways of the world, sailing the Caledonian Canal is an epic experience. Follow in the footsteps of the Gods at Neptune’s Staircase, the longest lock flight in Scotland; step ashore and explore the majestic Great Glen by boot or bike; or go myth hunting on the waters of iconic Loch Ness - the Caledonian is a bucket list experience if ever there was one.

Crinan Canal Magnificent scenery and wildlife, great attractions and more than a few surprises – it might be known as ‘Britain’s most beautiful shortcut,’ but the Crinan Canal offers far more than just easier access to the sailing grounds of the Western Isles. Explore the ancient coastal kingdom known as ‘Dalriada’ in the Heart of Argyll, spot some of Scotland’s rarest animals and sample the incredible food of the West Coast. Why not set sail and see for yourself?

Lowland Canals Take a turn on the world’s only rotating boat lift, sail beneath the soaring steel of The Kelpies – the largest equine sculptures on the planet – and moor up in the heart of Glasgow and Edinburgh - the Forth & Clyde and Union Canals offer experiences that just can’t be found anywhere else. Scottish Canals wants to work with boaters and marine organisations to celebrate Scotland’s Year of Coasts and

Waters in 2020 with a flotilla through the Lowland Canals. If you’re interested in being a part of it, please register your interest at scottishcanals.co.uk. Following significant investment in key infrastructure, the Forth & Clyde Canal was re-opened to sea-to-sea transits in spring 2019, marked by the Lowland Canal Carnival

Caledonian Canal Centre Set on the southernmost tip of Loch Ness in the pretty village of Fort Augustus, the new Caledonian Canal Centre offers all-year-round facilities for visitors and locals alike. Stop in for information on local attractions, to learn more about the heritage of the Caledonian, pick up a locally-sourced souvenir in the gift shop or refuel with homemade, Scottish produce in the cafe. If you’re on the move, head for the centre’s grab and go kiosk for a coffee or an artisanal ice cream from the local Black Isle Dairy.

Perched on Ardrishaig’s timber pier at the gateway to the Crinan Canal, the Steamer Terminal offers up breakfast, lunch and beyond using the very best of Argyll’s natural larder. From full Scottish breakfasts to scrumptious home- baking, it’s the perfect spot to start (or end) your journey along “Britain’s most beautiful shortcut.”

Elegant, audacious, and utterly captivating – The Falkirk Wheel is a soaring symbol of the regeneration of Scotland’s historic canal network and a marvel of modern engineering. Linking the Forth & Clyde to the Union Canal some 35 metres above, the world’s only rotating boat lift lets you sail through the sky, held up in the heavens by a combination of graceful engineering and the same power as it would take to boil eight kettles!