Aerial view of Urquhart Castle set along the Great Glen waterway, surrounded by bright green trees and grass with a hotel barge ship cruising by.
Bottles of Scottish whiskey lined up in a row. seen during the Classic Scotland Barge Cruise.
Man & woman in bright down jackets stand at the front of a hotel barge as it approaches a loch on a sunny day during the Classic Scotland Barge Cruise.
Kilted Scottish bag piper plays his instrument among bright green grass with forest & a small country home in the background.
Fall colors of red, green & gold on a Scottish hillside seen during the Classic Scotland Barge Cruise.
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$5690USD
Starting At
7
Days
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Europe Northern Europe Cruise

Classic Scotland Barge Cruise

For a magical barge cruise, Scotland is hard to surpass. On the 7-day Classic Scotland Barge Cruise, coast sedately through the Great Glen between Inverness and Fort William, navigating beautiful lochs and the engineering masterpiece that is the Caledonian Canal. Ancient castles perched on the water’s edge, heather-clad hillsides and arguably the finest inland cruising in the world make for unforgettable experiences on a handpicked barge cruise. Scotland’s legends of the past, the taste of single malt and the mythical inhabitant of Loch Ness all contribute to a magical charm only experienced in the dramatic Highlands.

Travel the Great Glen along the Caledonian Canal, experiencing various lochs along the way, including the infamous Loch Ness. Try a hand at falconry during a stop at the spectacular Highlands Club. Tour castles and stately homes. Taste classic Scottish single malt whiskeys at a local distillery, and experience historic points of interest including the grounds of the Battle of Culloden. Each visit on this Scotland barge cruise, whether steps from the ship or a short drive away from the dock, will further expose the rich culture and heritage of the Scottish Highlands. Regular opportunities to walk and bike among the countryside also immerse active adventurers in this scenic part of Scotland.

Each departure of the Classic Scotland Barge Cruise operates round-trip from Inverness, Scotland, either cruising southwest to Fort Williams and returning via overland transfer back to Inverness, or in reverse starting with an overland transfer to Fort Williams and cruising northeast back to Inverness. Each departure’s direction is typically confirmed 6-8 weeks in advance.

The 8-passenger Scottish Highlander and 12-guest Spirit of Scotland are designed specifically for this intimate Scotland river cruise, with plenty of interior and exterior viewing space that invites the mysterious northern Scottish countryside into the hearts and memories of travelers. Aboard either of these Scottish country house barges, enjoy gourmet cuisine paired with fine wines, an attentive staff, a fully-stocked bar open 24 hours, and charming ambiance ready to welcome small groups.

Consider securing Scottish Highlander or Spirit of Scotland for private charter cruises in Scotland, with theme options including whiskey, golf, horse-riding, fishing and family cruises, or customize your own Scotland barge tour itinerary.

Read on for details about this small Scotland river cruise, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s Northern Europe cruises and Northern Europe trips.



Itinerary

Classic Cruise—Scotland Itinerary

The main Classic Scotland Barge Cruise operates round-trip from Inverness. Embark in Inverness and cruise southwest to Banavie at Fort William, with an overland transfer northeast back to Inverness. Along the way, explore castles, historic points of interest, a whiskey distillery and charming villages.

Route map of Classic Scotland Barge Cruise, operating between Inverness & Banavie, with visits to Dochgarroch, Fort Augustus, Kytra & Laggan.
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Day 1
SUN - Embark Inverness, Scotland

Be met at the designated meeting point in Inverness and transferred by private chauffeured minibus to the ship. Enjoy a champagne welcome and perhaps an early evening stroll to the sea lock with wonderful views over the Moray and Beauly Firths. Dinner on board.

Accommodations

Scottish Highlander, Spirit of Scotland

Meals

dinner

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Day 2
MON - Muirtown to Dochgarroch

The first cruise is up the Muirtown lock flight and through the Tomnahurich swing bridge, with an option to walk alongside River Ness to the hamlet of Dochgarroch. After lunch on board, visit Culloden Moor, scene of the last major battle on British soil in 1746 where English Government troops faced the Highlanders of “Bonnie Prince Charlie.” If time allows, take a tour of Clava Cairns, a pre-historic clan chieftain burial site dating back to 2,000 B.C and setting for the “Outlander” TV series. Dinner on board.

Accommodations

Scottish Highlander, Spirit of Scotland

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 3
TUE - Dochgarroch to Fort Augustus

This morning enjoy a visit to Cawdor Castle (or Fort George for April & October departures), forever immortalized in Shakespeare’s “Scottish Play,” Macbeth. The picturesque gardens have been listed among the top 100 in the UK. The castle contains a superb collection of tapestries, pictures and furnishings and the Dowager Countess of Cawdor still lives there for part of the year. After lunch on board, cruise through Loch Dochfour and across Loch Ness, passing Urquhart Castle and navigating closely beneath its spectacular 13th century ruins, before continuing the cruise to Fort Augustus. Dinner on board.

Accommodations

Scottish Highlander, Spirit of Scotland

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 4
WED - Fort Augustus to Kytra

After breakfast, visit the private Highland Club, a spectacular exclusive set of residences and a former 19th century Benedictine Monastery. Weather permitting, be treated to a falconry and birds of prey demonstration on the banks of Loch Ness. The majesty of the swooping birds against the backdrop of the sweeping Scottish Highlands is not easily forgotten. There is time to explore the pretty village of Fort Augustus before lunch on board, after which the barge cruises up the flight of locks and then on to a pretty mooring at Kytra. This evening, enjoye a tutored private whisky tasting at charming The Glenmoriston Arms Hotel, followed by dinner in the hotel restaurant. 

Accommodations

Scottish Highlander, Spirit of Scotland

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 5
THU - Kytra to Laggan

This morning’s cruise can be partially walked as the barge crosses the very scenic Loch Oich, perhaps stopping en route for a spot of fishing, and onto the pretty Laggan Avenue. As the barge approaches Laggan, a Highland Piper may greet with a stirring rendition of traditional Scottish music. After lunch on board take in some of the finest scenery Scotland has to offer on a drive to one of its best known and most photographed castles, Eilean Donan, which has been featured in movies such as “Highlander” and James Bond’s “The World Is Not Enough” and overlooks three sea lochs. Dinner on board.

Accommodations

Scottish Highlander, Spirit of Scotland

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 6
FRI - Laggan to Banavie

The final cruise today passes through Moy Bridge, the last fully hand-operated bridge on the waterway, before mooring at Banavie beneath Ben Nevis and a stroll from Neptune’s Staircase leading down to Loch Eil. After lunch on board, visit the renowned Dalwhinnie Distillery, standing in the Cairngorms National Park. Tour the distillery and taste some single malts paired with a selection of delicious chocolates. If time permits, also visit the ruins of Old Inverlochy Castle. Captain’s farewell dinner on board and of course, the opportunity to enjoy another wee dram or two. 

Accommodations

Scottish Highlander, Spirit of Scotland

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 7
SAT - Disembark Banavie, Scotland, Transfer to Inverness & Depart

After breakfast, be transferred by private chauffeured minibus to your choice of location in Inverness.

Accommodations

n/a

Meals

breakfast

Read More
Details
Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Included

Local transfers between Inverness and the hotel barge (the approximate transfer duration is 15 minutes or 2 hours depending on the cruise direction), a luxury 6-night cruise, all meals on board catered for by the onboard Master Chef, an open bar 24/7 with a large range of alcoholic and non alcoholic drinks including a whiskey bar, all wines served throughout the cruise, excursions and admittance fees as per the itinerary, the services of crew members and use of barge facilities including bicycles and either a sonic fish finder (Scottish Highlander) or outdoor spa-pool (Spirit of Scotland).

Exclusions

Air transportation; insurance of any kind; gratuities.

Payment & Cancellation

In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 25% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
91 or more days – 100% of deposit
90-0 days – 100% of total trip cost

Terms & Conditions

This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.

Arrival & Departure

The main Classic Scotland Barge Cruise operates round-trip from Inverness, Scotland (INV), cruising to Banavie and ending with an overland transfer back to Inverness. We highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues. Plan flights to arrive to Inverness in time for the 3:30-4:00pm group transfer from the Kingsmills Hotel to the ship on Day 1 of the itinerary. Disembarkation follows breakfast on the final day. Plan flights to depart Inverness no earlier than 1:00pm on the final day, or opt to be transferred back to the Kingsmills Hotel (or your choice of location within Inverness) between 9:45 and 11:00am. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.

Activities

European barge cruises operate at a relaxed pace, with options for walking, biking and possible fishing when weather and time permit. On the Classic Scotland Barge Cruise, guests may opt to ride a bicycle for longer, pre-researched routes, meeting the ship farther along its route for the day.

Room Configuration

Single travelers wishing to book a double-occupancy room may do so at the following supplements (2024) in addition to the per-person listed rate, in select cabins upon availability: 
– $1,900 (Scottish Highlander, value departures)
– $2,200 (Scottish Highlander, regular departures)
– $2,000 (Spirit of Scotland, value departures)
– $2,400 (Spirit of Scotland, regular departures)

Families & Children

Children 12 years and older are welcomed aboard all departure dates; children 11 years and under are allowed on special Family Departures or any charter. Children under the age of 18 are eligible for $300 off the double occupancy rate.

Travel Insurance

Protect your travel investment with insurance. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. Coverage for a pre-existing medical condition is also available if you purchase the Travel Select plan within 15 days of the initial trip payment; refer to plan details. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.

Itinerary Notes

Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, wildlife, national park regulation or at the captain’s discretion. The ability to be flexible makes this type of small ship cruising unique.

Reverse Classic Cruise—Scotland Itinerary

The reverse Classic Scotland Barge Cruise operates round-trip from Inverness. Begin with an overland transfer southwest to Banavie at Fort William, then cruise northeast back to Inverness. Along the way, explore castles, historic points of interest, a whiskey distillery and charming villages.

Route map of Classic Scotland Barge Cruise, operating between Inverness & Banavie, with visits to Dochgarroch, Fort Augustus, Kytra & Laggan.
Read More
Day 1
SUN - Depart Inverness to Banavie, Scotland & Embark

Be met at the Kingsmills Hotel Townhouse Hotel in Inverness and transferred by private chauffeured minibus to the ship. A champagne welcome by the captain and crew and perhaps an early evening stroll before the first dinner on board.

Accommodations

Scottish Highlander, Spirit of Scotland

Meals

dinner

Read More
Day 2
MON - Banavie to Laggan

Today head from Loch Eil to Neptune’s Staircase en route to visit the renowned Dalwhinnie Distillery, standing in the Cairngorms National Park. Tour the distillery and taste some single malts paired with a selection of delicious chocolates. If time permits, also visit the ruins of Old Inverlochy Castle. Captain’s farewell dinner on board and of course, the opportunity to enjoy another wee dram or two. After lunch on board, pass through Moy Bridge, the last fully hand-operated bridge on the waterway. As the ship approaches her first mooring at Laggan, a Highland Piper may be there to greet with a stirring rendition of traditional Scottish music. Dinner on board.

Accommodations

Scottish Highlander, Spirit of Scotland

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 3
TUE - Laggan to Kytra

This morning cruise across the very scenic Loch Oich, perhaps stopping en route for a spot of fishing or a gentle stroll, then onto a pretty mooring at Kytra. After lunch on board, take in some of the finest scenery Scotland has to offer while driving to one of its best known and most photographed castles, Eilean Donan, which has featured in movies such as “Highlander” and James Bond’s “The World Is Not Enough” and overlooks three sea lochs. Dinner on board.

Accommodations

Scottish Highlander, Spirit of Scotland

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 4
WED - Kytra to Fort Augustus

After breakfast, visit the private Highland Club, a spectacular exclusive set of residences and a former 19th century Benedictine Monastery. Weather permitting, be treated to a falconry and birds of prey demonstration on the banks of Loch Ness. The majesty of the swooping birds against the backdrop of the sweeping Scottish Highlands is not easily forgotten. There is time to explore the pretty village of Kytra before lunch on board, after which the ship cruises to Fort Augustus and down the flight of locks as the locals call it, to moor opposite the Benedictine Abbey at the entrance to Loch Ness. This evening, dine ashore at a local restaurant.

Accommodations

Scottish Highlander, Spirit of Scotland

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 5
THU - Fort Augustus to Dochgarroch

This morning continue the cruise from Fort Augustus, then cruise through Loch Dochfour and across Loch Ness, passing Urquhart Castle and navigating closely beneath its spectacular 13th century ruins. After lunch on board, enjoy a visit to Cawdor Castle (or Fort George for April & October departures), forever immortalized in Shakespeare’s “Scottish Play,” Macbeth. The picturesque gardens have been listed among the top 100 in the UK. The castle contains a superb collection of tapestries, pictures and furnishings and the Dowager Countess of Cawdor still lives there for part of the year. Dinner on board.

Accommodations

Scottish Highlander, Spirit of Scotland

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 6
FRI - Dochgarroch to Muirtown

This morning, the final cruise takes the ship through Tomnahurich swing bridge to the locks at Muirtown, where there is the opportunity to take a bicycle ride or stroll to the sea lock with wonderful views over the Moray and Beauly Firths. After lunch, visit Culloden Moor, scene of the last major battle on British soil in 1746 where English Government troops faced the Highlanders of “Bonnie Prince Charlie.” If time allows, take a tour of Clava Cairns, a pre-historic clan chieftain burial site dating back to 2,000 B.C and setting for the Outlander TV series. Dinner on board.

Accommodations

Scottish Highlander, Spirit of Scotland

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 7
SAT - Disembark Inverness, Scotland

After breakfast, disembark and be transferred by private chauffeured minibus to your choice of location in Inverness.

Accommodations

n/a

Meals

breakfast

Read More
Details
Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Included

Local transfers between Inverness and the hotel barge (the approximate transfer duration is 15 minutes or 2 hours depending on the cruise direction), a luxury 6-night cruise, all meals on board catered for by the onboard Master Chef, an open bar 24/7 with a large range of alcoholic and non alcoholic drinks including a whiskey bar, all wines served throughout the cruise, excursions and admittance fees as per the itinerary, the services of crew members and use of barge facilities including bicycles and either a sonic fish finder (Scottish Highlander) or outdoor spa-pool (Spirit of Scotland).

Exclusions

Air transportation; insurance of any kind; gratuities.

Payment & Cancellation

In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 25% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
91 or more days – 100% of deposit
90-0 days – 100% of total trip cost

Terms & Conditions

This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.

Arrival & Departure

The reverse Classic Scotland Barge Cruise operates round-trip from Inverness, Scotland (INV), beginning with an overland transfer to Banavie and cruising to end back in Inverness. We highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues. Plan flights to arrive to Inverness in time for the 3:30-4:00pm group transfer from the Kingsmills Hotel to the ship on Day 1 of the itinerary. Disembarkation follows breakfast on the final day. Plan flights to depart Inverness no earlier than 1:00pm on the final day, or opt to be transferred back to the Kingsmills Hotel (or your choice of location within Inverness) between 9:45 and 11:00am. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.

Activities

European barge cruises operate at a relaxed pace, with options for walking, biking and possible fishing when weather and time permit. On the Classic Scotland Barge Cruise, guests may opt to ride a bicycle for longer, pre-researched routes, meeting the ship farther along its route for the day.

Room Configuration

Single travelers wishing to book a double-occupancy room may do so at the following supplements (2024) in addition to the per-person listed rate, in select cabins upon availability:
– $1,900 (Scottish Highlander, value departures)
– $2,200 (Scottish Highlander, regular departures)
– $2,000 (Spirit of Scotland, value departures)
– $2,400 (Spirit of Scotland, regular departures)

Families & Children

Children 12 years and older are welcomed aboard all departure dates; children 11 years and under are allowed on special Family Departures or any charter. Children under the age of 18 are eligible for $300 off the double occupancy rate.

Travel Insurance

Protect your travel investment with insurance. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. Coverage for a pre-existing medical condition is also available if you purchase the Travel Select plan within 15 days of the initial trip payment; refer to plan details. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.

Itinerary Notes

Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, wildlife, national park regulation or at the captain’s discretion. The ability to be flexible makes this type of small ship cruising unique.

Rates & Dates

Cruise Rates & Dates

Note: Each departure’s direction is typically confirmed 6-8 weeks in advance, with every departure operating round-trip from Inverness.

These ships are AdventureSmith favorites for private charter. Contact us for charter pricing and details.

Apr 21 - Apr 27, 2024
Scottish Highlander • 7 days
From $5690USD
Per Person
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Apr 21 - Apr 27, 2024
Spirit of Scotland • 7 days
From $6090USD
Per Person
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Apr 28 - May 04, 2024
Scottish Highlander • 7 days
From $5690USD
Per Person
Read More
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Apr 28 - May 04, 2024
Spirit of Scotland • 7 days
From $6090USD
Per Person
Read More
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May 05 - May 11, 2024
Scottish Highlander • 7 days
From $6590USD
Per Person
Read More
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May 05 - May 11, 2024
Spirit of Scotland • 7 days
From $6990USD
Per Person
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May 12 - May 18, 2024
Scottish Highlander • 7 days
From $6590USD
Per Person
Read More
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May 12 - May 18, 2024
Spirit of Scotland • 7 days
From $6990USD
Per Person
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May 19 - May 25, 2024
Scottish Highlander • 7 days
From $6590USD
Per Person
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May 19 - May 25, 2024
Spirit of Scotland • 7 days
From $6990USD
Per Person
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May 26 - Jun 01, 2024
Scottish Highlander • 7 days
From $6590USD
Per Person
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May 26 - Jun 01, 2024
Spirit of Scotland • 7 days
From $6990USD
Per Person
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Jun 02 - Jun 08, 2024
Scottish Highlander • 7 days
From $6590USD
Per Person
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Jun 02 - Jun 08, 2024
Spirit of Scotland • 7 days
From $6990USD
Per Person
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Jun 09 - Jun 15, 2024
Scottish Highlander • 7 days
From $6590USD
Per Person
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Jun 09 - Jun 15, 2024
Spirit of Scotland • 7 days
From $6990USD
Per Person
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Jun 16 - Jun 22, 2024
Spirit of Scotland • 7 days
From $6990USD
Per Person
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Jun 23 - Jun 29, 2024
Spirit of Scotland • 7 days
From $6990USD
Per Person
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Jun 23 - Jun 29, 2024
Scottish Highlander • 7 days
From $6590USD
Per Person
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Jun 30 - Jul 06, 2024
Spirit of Scotland • 7 days
From $6990USD
Per Person
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Jun 30 - Jul 06, 2024
Scottish Highlander • 7 days
From $6590USD
Per Person
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Jul 07 - Jul 13, 2024
Scottish Highlander • 7 days
From $6590USD
Per Person
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Jul 07 - Jul 13, 2024
Spirit of Scotland • 7 days
From $6990USD
Per Person
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Jul 14 - Jul 20, 2024
Scottish Highlander • 7 days
From $6590USD
Per Person
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Jul 14 - Jul 20, 2024
Spirit of Scotland • 7 days
From $6990USD
Per Person
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Jul 21 - Jul 27, 2024
Spirit of Scotland • 7 days
From $6990USD
Per Person
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Jul 21 - Jul 27, 2024
Scottish Highlander • 7 days
From $6590USD
Per Person
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Jul 28 - Aug 03, 2024
Spirit of Scotland • 7 days
From $6990USD
Per Person
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Jul 28 - Aug 03, 2024
Scottish Highlander • 7 days
From $6590USD
Per Person
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Aug 04 - Aug 10, 2024
Spirit of Scotland • 7 days
From $6990USD
Per Person
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Aug 04 - Aug 10, 2024
Scottish Highlander • 7 days
From $6590USD
Per Person
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Aug 11 - Aug 17, 2024
Scottish Highlander • 7 days
From $6590USD
Per Person
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Aug 18 - Aug 24, 2024
Spirit of Scotland • 7 days
From $6990USD
Per Person
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Aug 18 - Aug 24, 2024
Scottish Highlander • 7 days
From $6590USD
Per Person
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Aug 25 - Aug 31, 2024
Spirit of Scotland • 7 days
From $6990USD
Per Person
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Aug 25 - Aug 31, 2024
Scottish Highlander • 7 days
From $6590USD
Per Person
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Sep 01 - Sep 07, 2024
Spirit of Scotland • 7 days
From $6990USD
Per Person
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Sep 01 - Sep 07, 2024
Scottish Highlander • 7 days
From $6590USD
Per Person
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Sep 08 - Sep 14, 2024
Spirit of Scotland • 7 days
From $6990USD
Per Person
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Sep 08 - Sep 14, 2024
Scottish Highlander • 7 days
From $6590USD
Per Person
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Sep 15 - Sep 21, 2024
Spirit of Scotland • 7 days
From $6990USD
Per Person
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Sep 15 - Sep 21, 2024
Scottish Highlander • 7 days
From $6590USD
Per Person
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Sep 22 - Sep 28, 2024
Scottish Highlander • 7 days
From $6590USD
Per Person
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Sep 22 - Sep 28, 2024
Spirit of Scotland • 7 days
From $6990USD
Per Person
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Sep 29 - Oct 05, 2024
Scottish Highlander • 7 days
From $6590USD
Per Person
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Sep 29 - Oct 05, 2024
Spirit of Scotland • 7 days
From $6990USD
Per Person
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Oct 06 - Oct 12, 2024
Scottish Highlander • 7 days
From $5690USD
Per Person
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Oct 06 - Oct 12, 2024
Spirit of Scotland • 7 days
From $6090USD
Per Person
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Oct 13 - Oct 19, 2024
Scottish Highlander • 7 days
From $5690USD
Per Person
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Oct 13 - Oct 19, 2024
Spirit of Scotland • 7 days
From $6090USD
Per Person
Read More
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Oct 20 - Oct 26, 2024
Scottish Highlander • 7 days
From $5690USD
Per Person
Read More
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Oct 20 - Oct 26, 2024
Spirit of Scotland • 7 days
From $6090USD
Per Person
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Accommodations

Choose the Small Ship that Fits Your Travel Style

Riverboat
Scottish Highlander

The 8-guest Scottish Highlander barge offers the feel of a country home while cruising through the Caledonian Canal. Enjoy this classic Scotland hotel barge with an attentive crew, fine whiskey and wine paired with extraordinary meals, bicycles on board and custom charter options including whiskey, golf, horse-riding, fishing and family cruises.

Riverboat
Spirit of Scotland

The 12-guest Spirit of Scotland barge offers an elegant floating hotel while cruising through the Caledonian Canal. Cruise Scotland in comfort aboard this classic hotel barge stocked with fine whiskey and wine, sumptuous meals and bikes. Custom charter themes include whiskey, golf, horse-riding, fishing and family cruises.

Deals

Current Deals on This Trip

Add to Wishlist
Offer expires May 13th, 2024
Save Up To 20% Per Cabin Or Charter On Select 2024 Classic Scotland Barge Cruises

Save 10-20% per cabin or charter when you book your select 2024 Classic Scotland Barge Cruise.

Add to Wishlist
Offer expires May 13th, 2024
No Single Supplement On Select 2024 Classic Scotland Barge Cruises

Solo travelers! Pay no single supplement when you book your select July 2024 Classic Scotland Barge Cruise.

Expert Review

Reviews From Our Experts So You Know What To Expect

Lisa Exley-Smith • September 1st, 2022
Expert Review: What It's Like on a European Barge Cruise

Bagpipes, whiskey, falcons, towpaths and lochs greeted AdventureSmith’s Lisa as she explored Scotland via a 12-guest barge. Learn all about the European barge cruise experience in this detailed review.

Testimonials

Hear It from Travelers Who Have Explored with Us

"A Magical Week"

What a magical week we experienced on the "Spirit of Scotland." From food and wines and comfortable, well-designed cabins to exciting, fun itineraries, we could not have been better served!

Overall
5 /5 Star Created with Sketch.
Accommodations
5 /5 Star Created with Sketch.
Meals
5 /5 Star Created with Sketch.
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"An Interesting, Informative Experience"

The intimacy of a barge trip including people of at least some like interests is an interesting, informative experience in its own right. Combined with scenery, culinary delight, engineering aspects of transit through canal locks, special guests/events, and an engaging companions staffing the boat, it is a memorable joy.

Overall
5 /5 Star Created with Sketch.
Accommodations
5 /5 Star Created with Sketch.
Meals
5 /5 Star Created with Sketch.
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"Off The Charts"

Unhurried, convivial atmosphere. Unbelievably clean, no litter. This area shows civic pride in maintaining cleanliness. Off the charts good food with excellent beverage pairings. A staff dedicated to making memorable experiences.

Overall
5 /5 Star Created with Sketch.
Accommodations
5 /5 Star Created with Sketch.
Meals
5 /5 Star Created with Sketch.
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Book with the confidence that comes from experience.

100+ combined years of experience, 7 continents explored, decades of expedition cruising around the world & here to help you find & book your dream trip.

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Extend Your Trip

Additional Travel Options Before Or After Your Cruise

Add to Wishlist
7 Day Cruise
Classic Ireland River Cruise

On this 7-day Ireland barge cruise aboard 10-guest Shannon Princess, enjoy Irish music, falconry, castles, pubs, the world's oldest licensed whiskey distillery, artisan craft villages and the welcoming people of The Emerald Isle.

From $5650USD
Aug Sep
Add to Wishlist
16 - 17 Day Cruise
Norway's Fjords & Arctic Svalbard

Join National Geographic expert leaders aboard 126-guest Nat Geo Endurance or Resolution to see the Arctic's unparalleled beauty, exploring where polar bears prowl and walruses haul out on rocky shores.

Special Offer
From $24016USD
May Jun Jul
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8 - 8 Day Cruise
Norwegian Fjords Cruise

Set sail  for 8-9 days aboard a French luxury ship on this Norwegian fjords cruise. Discover dizzying cliff faces, Viking history and the Norwegian capital of Oslo, a city with unique energy.

From $7550USD
Jul Aug
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7 Day Cruise
Classic England River Thames Cruise

On this 7-day barge cruise in England, explore London, castles, gardens, churches, rural villages and the charming English countryside aboard the intimate and stylish 8-guest Magna Carta, with biking and walking options along the way.

From $6090USD
Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct
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8 Day Cruise
Scotland's Highlands & Islands

This cruise highlights seldom-seen Scottish landscapes and top historical sights throughout the interior and along the coast. On the purpose-built Lord of the Glens ship, navigate through the canals that lead through the heart of the Scottish countryside.

Special Offer
From $10606USD
Jun Jul Aug Sep
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8 Day Cruise
Scottish Isles & Norwegian Fjords

Board a luxury French ship to discover the rugged landscapes of the Scottish Isles and the beauty of the Norwegian fjords, with world-class experts from Smithsonian Journeys on board. From Loch Ness standing stones, prehistoric settlements and one of Europe's last ice caps, this Scotland and Norway cruise will inspire.

From $7310USD
May Jun Jul
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Classic Scotland Barge Cruise

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