sailscotland 2020

SCOTTISH CANALS

Caledonian Canal

Loch Ness , Caledonian Canal © Peter Sandground

Explore the heart of the Scottish Highlands The Caledonian Canal offers a coast-to-coast link through spectacular scenery in the heart of the Scottish Highlands. Stretching from Inverness in the east to Fort William in the west, the canal is approximately 96.5km (60 miles) in length, of which 34.5km (22 miles) is man-made and the remainder being formed by natural fresh water lochs. There are 29 locks and 10 swing bridges along the waterway, all of which are operated for your convenience by trained staff. Users should allow a minimum of two-and-a-half days to transit the canal, and more if you wish to explore further the many attractions of the Great Glen, particularly during our busy summer season.

PILOTS Information is contained in the following publications: The Admiralty North Coast of Scotland Pilot (NP52) and the Admiralty West of Scotland Pilot (NP66). Also in Almanacs published by Imray, Laurie, Norie &Wilson and by the Clyde Crusing Club. CHARTS Eastern Approaches Moray Firth 115, Inverness Firth 1078, Caledonian Canal 1791, Western Approaches Loch Linnhe (North) 2380, Fort William and Corpach 2372 (all Admiralty). HOURS OF OPERATION The Caledonian Canal operates on a seasonal basis: seven days per week in

CHANNEL DIMENSIONS Length Beam Draft

2 hours either side of low tide. Contact the Sea Lock Keeper (VHF Ch 74) for local advice. ACTIVITIES With spectacular scenery, amazing wildlife, and of course the famous Scottish hospitality, the Caledonian Canal has lots to offer. Explore the Great Glen by boat, boot or bike, visit the Caledonian Canal Centre at Fort Augustus, or see if you can spot Nessie. For more ideas visit scottishcanals.co.uk. CHARTER HOLIDAYS Cabin cruisers or yachts are available for charter - ideal for those new to boating or an exciting family holidays. Alternatively, enjoy a break on the banks of Loch Ness in our boutique rooms at the Caledonian Canal Centre Lock Chambers at Fort Augustus. Visit scottishcanals.co.uk for details.

45.72m (150ft) 10.67m (35ft) 4.1m (13ft 5in)*

CANAL LICENCES A range of visitor licences are available which are valid for all Scottish Canals. Full details of great value transit and short-term stay packages may be obtained from scottishcanals.co.uk and from our Canal Office. Competitive rates for winter mooring are also available; call the Canal Office on 01463 725500 for more details. Purchase your licence and Skipper’s Guide on arrival at the Sea Lock. This guide contains navigational information to help make your transit through the canal safe and enjoyable. Download a free copy of the Skipper’s Guide at scottishcanals.co.uk FACILITIES Transit berths are available throughout the canal. Toilets, showers and laundry facilities, shore power and water, diesel and pump-out, Wi-Fi and local services are all available at various locations along the canal - please check Skipper’s Guide for specific information. Due to environmental legislation, we are unable to provide water hoses. Please remember to bring your own hose.

spring, summer and autumn, and Monday to Friday during winter,

dependant on canal works. Please visit scottishcanals.co.uk for exact operating times and dates or contact the local Canal Office.

TIDAL OPERATION Special note must be taken of the tidal restrictions at sea

CONTACT US

locks. Within normal operating hours, Corpach sea locks is available ≥1m, and Clachnaharry Sea Lock is available ≥1.4m. Please note that at spring tides the sea locks are CLOSED

Caledonian Canal Office Seaport Marina, Muirtown Wharf Inverness IV3 5LE T: 01463 725500 E: caledonian@scottishcanals.co.uk

www.sailscotland.co.uk

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