Top Scotland Canal Cruises in 2026

Seek out the Loch Ness Monster on a 2-hour cruise from Dochgarroch Lock. The boat is fitted with a special Nessie sonar, but if the elusive monster doesn’t show up, other sights will charm you instead. Pass along the Caledonian Canal into Loch Ness to see Urquhart Castle, Bona Lighthouse, and the site of a World War II bomber crash. Learn about the loch’s history and legends as you cruise.

Delve into the legends of Loch Ness and admire the scenery of the Caledonian Canal without the land-based crowds on this 50-minute cruise from Dochgarroch. Discover the secrets of Loch Ness and search for the Loch Ness Monster (aka Nessie) using on-board sonar technology. Plus, you'll get unrivaled views of the Bona Lighthouse and Aldourie Castle from the water.

Escape the city and see some of Edinburgh’s lesser-known sights on a boat cruise that takes you to Inchcolm Island, home to both a medieval abbey and a colony of sea lions and seals. As well as escaping the crowds on land, you’ll bag the best views of the famous Three Bridges.

Immerse yourself in the rugged peninsular landscapes of the Isle of Skye and Scottish Highlands on this 3-day trip from Edinburgh. During your visit to Scotland's wild northwest coast, you’re driven through the Highlands, including stops at Glencoe and Loch Ness. Stay overnight with daily breakfasts in the harbor town of Portree, where you find local pubs and have plenty of time to explore the Isle of Skye with your guide. Numbers are limited to 16 people on this small-group tour, ensuring a personalized experience.

The Isle of Skye is the largest of Scotland’s Hebrides Islands and this multi-day tour from Edinburgh ensures you take in all the highlights. Admire natural wonders such as Loch Ness, Glencoe, and Ben Nevis; visit Lealt Falls, Dunvegan Castle, and Kilt Rock on the Isle of Skye; and see Eilean Donan Castle, where "Highlander" was filmed.

Explore the Scottish Highlands without the hassle of navigating unfamiliar roads on a 3-day tour from Edinburgh. Travel comfortably in an air-conditioned coach with a local guide to the Isle of Skye, Loch Ness, Culloden, Glencoe, and more. Enjoy scenic views and stories of Scotland’s history, plus optional activities such as a Loch Ness cruise (prices updated). This tour offers an immersive experience into one of Scotland’s most scenic regions.

Get out of the city and soak up the natural beauty of Loch Ness and the Scottish Highlands on this day tour from Edinburgh. See wooded lochs and tucked-away villages as you journey through spectacular scenery en route to Glencoe and Fort Augustus. Enjoy a boat tour in search of the Loch Ness Monster and traverse the picturesque Cairngorms National Park. Travel in a top-of-the-range, 16-seat Mercedes mini-coach with a small group.

Soak up Scotland’s rich history, nature, and culture without having to sort out your own transportation on this 5-day tour from Edinburgh to Orkney and the Highlands. Visit majestic Glen Coe on your way north before sailing over to Orkney to discover treasures including the Italian Chapel, Maes Howe Skara Brae, and the Ring of Brodgar. Back on the mainland, visit Dunrobin Castle, the pretty town of Pitlochry and more.