sailscotland 2020

SCOTTISH CANALS

Crinan Lock © Peter Sandground

By boat and bike © Peter Sandground

It's the Crinan Canal for me! The Crinan Canal meanders through truly magnificent scenery which is rich in history, with many world-class heritage sites, a designated wildlife reserve and miles of forest walks and cycle ways. It runs between Ardrishaig, at the north west extremity of the Firth of Clyde, to Crinan on the “outside” west coast, and allows the user to avoid the lengthy passage around the Mull of Kintyre. Though only 14.5km in length there is just so much to see and do fromwalking, cycling, fishing or just taking time out to explore Knapdale. So step back in time, relax, slow down and stretch those sea legs ashore.

PILOTS The Clyde Cruising Club produces excellent sailing directions for the Firth of Clyde, whilst the Imray “Crinan to Colonsay” and ‘Isle of Mull and approaches’ pilots both cover the canal. CHARTS Admirality charts “Lower Loch Fyne” no 2381, “Lochs and Harbours in the Sound of Jura” no 2476 and “Crinan to the Firth of Lorn” no 2326 all include the Crinan Canal, as do Imray charts C63, C64 and C65. HOURS OF OPERATION The Crinan Canal operates on a seasonal basis: seven days per week in peak season; Monday to Saturday during spring and autumn; and Monday to Friday during winter. Please check with the local Canal Office or scottishcanals.co.uk for exact operating dates and times.

FACT FILE The Crinan Canal is 14.5km (9 miles) in length with 15 locks and seven bridges. The sea locks and Lock 14 are mechanised and operated for you by Scottish Canals staff. All bridges are also operated by Scottish Canals staff. Inland locks are manually operated and involve pushing lock gates and winding sluices. Indeed, many of our customers report back that working the locks is an enjoyable part of the Crinan passage. Please contact one of the sea locks or the canal office if you feel that you will require assistance. We may be able to put you in touch with an independent local operator to provide this service. Crinan Sea Lock – 01546 830 285 Ardrishaig office – 01546 602 458 Further details can be found in the Skipper’s Guide or by visiting scottishcanals.co.uk.

Please add 10cm (4in) to your normal draft as craft sit lower in the fresh water of the canal than they do in salt water. *Due to possible water changes, customers with a draft of over 2.2m are advised to contact the local Canal Office or Sea Locks at least 48 hours in advance to confirm passage will be possible. CANAL LICENCE Full time berthing options are available all year round. Full details can be obtained from the Crinan Canal Office or scottishcanals.co.uk FACILITIES Transit berths are available throughout the canal. Toilets, showers and laundry facilities, shore power and water, Wi-Fi and local services are all available at various locations along the canal – please check the Skipper’s Guide for specific information. Due to environmental legislation, we are unable to provide water hoses. Please remember to bring your own.

CHANNEL DIMENSION Length

CONTACT US

26.82m (88ft) 6.09m (20ft) 28.95m (95ft) 2.5m* (8ft 2in)

Beam

Crinan Canal Office Pier Square, Ardrishaig

Air Draft

Draft

Argyle PA30 8DZ T: 01546 603201 E: enquiries@scottishcanals.co.uk

* Due to possible water level changes,

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