Save 20% per cabin or charter when you book your select October 2024 departure of the below-linked Classic Scotland Barge Cruise.
Offer valid on new bookings only, for a limited time upon availability and cannot be combined with any other offer. Deposit must be paid by October 21, 2024. See all cruise deals for a comprehensive list of current savings on this and other adventures.
Save 10% when you book your select 2025 private charter of the Classic Scotland Barge Cruise:
Offer valid on new bookings only, subject to availability and cannot be combined with any other offer. See all cruise deals for a comprehensive list of current savings on this and other adventures.
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.
The elegant 12-guest Spirit of Scotland barge is a purpose-built small ship offering extensive public areas inside and out that feature the breathtaking Highlands scenery. Cruise the Caledonian Canal and the lochs of the Great Glen in comfort and style aboard a modern-made hotel barge that evokes the traditional steamers that plied the lochs of Scotland in times gone by.
AdventureSmith Explorations’ Spirit of Scotland review includes a detailed description of the small ship including deck plans and a photo gallery. Our Northern Europe experts have been aboard the Spirit of Scotland firsthand. Please read our Spirit of Scotland barge review below then contact our small ship cruise experts to compare the Spirit of Scotland with other small cruise ships and yachts offering small ship cruises in Northern Europe.
Choose the Spirit of Scotland barge for a classy ambiance paired with gourmet food, exemplary wines and fine whiskey. Cruise Scotland’s mysterious rivers, canals and lochs with opportunities to explore by bike and on foot along the way. This Scottish barge is also an ideal ship for private charter cruises, with theme options including whiskey, golf, horse-riding, fishing and family cruises, or customize your own itinerary. After having been aboard, we loved the large covered sundeck, hot tub, bicycles (enough for each guest) and attentive hosts on board. It’s a ship that easy to feel home on right from the start. Aesthetically, there is just enough plaid to conjure up the Scottish vibe, and the bar is fully equipped with a variety of Scotch whiskey to taste.
Spirit of Scotland’s bright and spacious interior saloon and dining area is lined with picture windows to take in the beauty of Scotland’s moors as the hotel barge slowly winds through her pristine surroundings. A separate bar offers a large selection of whiskey and a selection of international fine wines. An integral forward wheelhouse invites guests to view the cruise route ahead as the ship steams forward.
Outside, separate areas offer relaxation, whether on a recliner or in the heated spa pool, as well as a covered dining terrace. The large upper sun deck is the ideal place to admire the dramatic backdrop including historic landmarks, while cruising along deep-water lochs.
The full complement of 12 guests may dine together with open seating at the dining table. While the atmosphere is casual, the gourmet fare and wine pairings ensure gastronomic delights may be enjoyed by all on a daily basis. The featured cuisine is traditional Scottish foods and international favorites, with the creative chef preparing fresh dishes using locally sourced game and beef, wild salmon and seafood paired with a selection of fine international wines. Many allergies and special diets such as vegetarian, vegan and no fish may be accommodated with advanced notice.
Breakfast may feature a full Scottish cooked meal or continental-style options such as toast, fruit, cereals, fruit juices, tea and coffee. Lunch usually consists of a light meal with salads, pates and fish dishes, and the occasional outdoor picnic. Lunch may offer a 3-course sit-down affair, or hot soups on colder days. Dinner is always a gastronomic adventure with a taste of regional cuisine by candlelight, harmonizing food and good wines, followed by a selection of regional cheeses, coffee and liqueurs.
Non-alcoholic beverages, coffee and tea are included, as are drinks from the well-stocked bar. Open 24 hours, the bar offers wines, spirits, a wide range of Scottish single malt whiskies, beers and soft drinks. All house wines are provided with meals and guests may enjoy a champagne welcome on arrival.
This Scottish hotel barge meets its two on-land vehicles, an 8-seat and a six-seat van, for transfers and excursions when she docks. The ship welcomes guests to remain on board during excursions as desired, or guests may choose to walk or ride a bike both during excursions or while the barge cruises. Eight bicycles and helmets are carried on board, with children’s bike equipment available with advanced notice. Umbrellas are also available if the weather merits their use.
On board, passengers may enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi on their personal devices while in the salon and dining area, although connectivity can be limited in remote locations. Two USB ports are available in the upstairs saloon, as is a radio and iPod docking station. The heated hot tub out on deck encourages relaxation while the Scottish barge slowly moves along. Entertainment options also include a small library of books and maps to peruse, a collection of board games to play and binoculars for spotting birds. The open bridge invites guests to chat with the captain and perhaps learn about the ship’s radar and depth sounder.
The Spirit of Scotland’s six air-conditioned cabins each offers a choice of twin or double beds for an intimate size of 12 guests total. Each stateroom is complemented by a fully tiled ensuite bathroom with power-shower, sink, toilet, towels, hand soap, shower gel, shampoo, hair dryer, slippers and bathrobes. All cabins also offer a safe plus polished walnut furniture including a large wardrobe with three sections, a fitted desk with drawer and cupboard below, and a bedside table with drawer and cupboard. A reading light and USB port adjoins each bed. A television with DVD capabilities offers in-room entertainment. The barge is wired for 220 volts, with sockets which correspond to the standard European two-pin plug.
The 8-guest Scottish Highlander barge welcomes her guests to Scotland’s Highlands with an atmosphere of a comfortable country house adorned with subtle tartan furnishings and landscape paintings. Voyage through the Great Glen aboard this spacious and warm floating hotel, complete with a well-stocked whiskey bar and gourmet gastronomic delights paired with fine wines to delight while cruising through the Caledonian Canal.
AdventureSmith Explorations’ Scottish Highlander review includes a detailed description of the small ship including deck plans and a photo gallery. Please read our Scottish Highlander barge review below then contact our small ship cruise experts to compare the Scottish Highlander with other small cruise ships and yachts offering small ship cruises in Northern Europe.
Choose the Scottish Highlander barge if you are seeking a classic Scottish country house feel with an intimate guest count and culinary delights. This hotel barge offers wonderful river, canal and loch cruising and dually provides excellent opportunities for walking and biking along the way. This Scottish hotel barge is also an excellent option for private charter cruises, with themes including whiskey, golf, horse-riding, fishing and family cruises, or customize your own itinerary.
With warm wooden mahogany interiors and woven Scottish tartans, the Scottish Highlander’s cozy spaces ensure guests feel right at home. Her welcoming saloon features rich-colored wooden paneling, large picture windows and comfortable leather Chesterfield sofas to relax in, perhaps with a mellow single malt whiskey from the well-stocked bar. The comfortable, enclosed observation area behind the wheelhouse enables protected views of the passing scenery, as well as the ability to chat with the captain about life on the Caledonian Canal and its interconnecting lochs. The captain may even share insights into using the ship’s compass, depth sounder and chart plotter. The forward, exterior sun deck area provides additional seating and far-reaching views of the rugged highland landscape.
All eight guests may dine together with open seating at the casual yet classy dining table. While the ambiance is relaxed and informal, the gourmet fare and wine pairings ensure daily culinary delights. Cuisine is traditional Scottish fare, with the creative chef preparing fresh dishes using locally sourced game and beef, wild salmon and seafood paired with a selection of fine international wines. Many allergies and special diets such as vegetarian, vegan and no fish may be accommodated with advanced notice.
Most meals offer a set menu highlighting both international and traditional Scottish fare. Breakfast may feature a full Scottish cooked meal or continental-style options such as toast, fruit, cereals, fruit juices, tea and coffee. Lunch usually consists of a light meal with salads, pates and fish dishes, and the occasional outdoor picnic. Lunch may offer a 3-course sit-down affair, or hot soups on colder days. Dinner is always a gastronomic adventure with a taste of regional cuisine by candlelight, harmonizing food and good wines, followed by a selection of regional cheeses, coffee and liqueurs.
Non-alcoholic beverages, coffee and tea are included, with a Nespresso Coffee machine offering an a la carte menu of specialty coffees. Additionally, the well-stocked bar is open 24 hours, with all-included wines, spirits, beers, soft drinks and a wide range of Scottish single malt whiskies. All house wines are provided with meals and guests may enjoy a champagne welcome on arrival.
This Scottish hotel barge carries umbrellas as well as four general purpose and four folding bikes on board. Children’s bikes, helmets and child bike seats can be arranged with advanced notice. Bicycles are available almost anytime, to explore the countryside while the ship slowly meanders the Caledonian Canal or while the barge is stationary. Cycle the towpath alongside the hotel barge, or go farther inland on researched routes with a written guide, knowing the ship will arrange to meet up in a designated place. Onboard entertainment options include a small library of books and maps, a collection of board games, binoculars for birding, a stereo system with CDs and WiFi access via personal devices.
The Scottish Highlander barge offers accommodation for eight guests in three staterooms and one junior suite, each one centrally heated plus a cooling fan and en suite facilities. Choose between two twin beds or one double bed. Each cabin’s bathroom offers a shower, wash-basin, toilet, heated towel rack, 110v shaver socket, towels, hand soap, shower gel, shampoo, hair dryers, slippers, bathrobes and an air extractor fan (except the Cameron Suite which has a porthole).
England’s River Thames offers quaint, scenic countryside and rustic beauty. On this 7-day barge cruise in England, meander past royal palaces, riverside towns and villages aboard the 8-guest Magna Carta canal boat. Experience a real mixture of olde worlde England and the natural beauty of Surrey, Berkshire and Oxfordshire. From Henry VIII’s Hampton Court, cruise past Windsor Castle to Henley, with frequent stops allowing plenty of time to wander and explore while following an old Viking trading route deep into the rural countryside, along the River Thames.
Gentle exploration is the highlight of this London river cruise, with exceptional cycling and walking opportunities along the Royal River Thames. Visit traditional boat builders and art galleries. Enjoy afternoon tea, tour Henry VIII’s apartments and the Royal Chapel, Windsor Castle and its magnificent gardens, England’s oldest inn and Oxford. Enjoy a less crowded European river cruise with charming scenery on this River Thames cruise.
Each departure operates round-trip from London, either cruising west to Henley-on-Thames, with an overland transfer east back to London, or starting with an overland transfer west to Henley-on-Thames and cruising east back to London. Each departure’s direction is typically confirmed 6-8 weeks in advance.
In 2024, select departures visit Downton Abbey’s Highclere Castle; in 2025, travelers may request this visit for any departure prior to September (tickets not guaranteed).
The elegant and spacious, air-conditioned, 8-passenger Magna Carta is the perfect hotel barge for this royal river cruise. Her small guest count, doting crew and gastronomic pleasures are sure to delight. And her stylish interiors and sun decks provide an unrivaled view during this England barge cruise.
Consider securing Magna Carta for private charter cruises in England, with theme options such as golf, theater, tennis and family cruises, or customize your own itinerary.
Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s Northern Europe cruises.
The 8-guest Magna Carta barge cruises England’s River Thames at a meandering pace that ensures her guests don’t miss the royal palaces, quaint riverside towns and astounding countryside. Originally built in the 1930’s, today she is a classy and spacious floating country hotel boasting a combination of traditional and modern features and an inviting onboard ambiance.
AdventureSmith Explorations’ Magna Carta review includes a detailed description of the small ship including deck plans and a photo gallery. Please read our Magna Carta barge review below then contact our small ship cruise experts to compare the Magna Carta River Thames barge with other small cruise ships and yachts offering small ship cruises in Northern Europe.
Choose the Magna Carta canal boat in England if you are seeking a stylish and refined England barge with a small guest count, doting crew and gastronomic delights. This hotel barge cruises some of the prettiest stretches of the Royal River Thames, accessing small art galleries, stately homes and beautiful gardens which larger riverboats can’t reach. Along the way, Magna Carta’s guests may enjoy walking and biking along an ever-present recreational path. This canal boat in England is also an ideal ship for private charter cruises, with theme options such as golf, theater, tennis and family cruises, or customize your own itinerary.
This England barge’s fine mahogany, teak and oak woods create a charming old-world atmosphere, which is complemented by modern amenities such as under-floor heating. Her large saloon and dining area invite guests to relax among stylish sofas and coffee tables (evocative of period furniture) that sit beside picture windows. Outside, two forward sun decks—an upper and a lower—feature a hot tub and lounge chairs for relaxing, as well as a table ready to set the entire passenger complement for an al fresco meal.
The full passenger complement of eight are welcome to indulge at the single dining table, with open seating. Mealtimes are casual, complemented by food and wine pairings from the master chef that offer epicurean delights not soon forgotten. Cuisine is focused on traditional British fare, with international favorites as well. Many allergies and special diets such as vegetarian, vegan and no fish may be accommodated with advanced notice.
Most meals offer a set menu. Breakfast may feature a full English cooked meal or continental-style options such as fresh breads, fruit, cereals, fruit juices, tea and coffee. Lunch usually consists of a light 2-course meal with colorful salads, pasta dishes and cold meats, accompanied by hot soup or an entree and dessert. Dinner is always a gastronomic adventure with a taste of regional cuisine by candlelight, complemented by fine wines and followed by a selection of regional cheeses, coffee and liqueurs.
Non-alcoholic beverages, coffee, tea and milk are included with all meals, as is a well-stocked bar open 24 hours. The bar offers wines, spirits, beers and soft drinks. All house wines are provided with meals and guests may enjoy a champagne welcome on arrival.
The Magna Carta barge meets its on-land minibus for transfers and excursions that aren’t within walking distance of her mooring. The ship welcomes guests to remain on board during excursions as desired, or guests may choose to walk or ride a bike both during excursions or while the England barge cruises. This River Thames barge carries four mountain bikes on board. Additional bicycles, including children’s bikes, can be arranged with advanced notice and at additional cost. Bicycles are available almost anytime, to cycle the towpath alongside the Magna Carta barge while it leisurely cruises the River Thames, or while the England barge is stationary. Onboard entertainment options include a small library of books and maps, a collection of board games, binoculars for birding, a stereo system with CDs and guest iPod connectivity and WiFi access via personal devices (WiFi is subject to availability in remote locations). The open bridge welcomes guests to chat with the captain about the ship and the River Thames.
The Magna Carta barge offers accommodation for eight guests in four suites, each individually temperature controlled with air conditioning and under-floor central heating plus en suite facilities. Choose between two twin beds or one double bed in the Henry VIII, Shakespeare and Winston Churchill suites, or select the double-bed-only Christopher Wren suite. Each suite’s fully tiled bathroom offers a shower, sink, toilet, heated towel rack, 110v shaver socket, towels, toiletries, hair dryer, bathrobes and an air extractor fan. Each suite also offers four opening windows, a safe, writing desk and chair, bedside table with reading lamps and 2 USB charging ports, and a television with built-in DVD and CD player, all wrapped in hardwood walls and wainscoting. Aside from ensuite bathrooms, this canal boat in England is wired for 240 volts with standard UK 3-pin plugs.
The charming 10-guest Shannon Princess barge features thoughtful, inviting spaces for ultimate relaxation while taking in the sights and sounds of the Irish countryside. Cruise the River Shannon and its picturesque intertwining lakes in comfort and style aboard a modern-made hotel barge that’s ready to reveal rolling green fields, ancient Celtic landmarks and an abundance of wildlife.
AdventureSmith Explorations’ Shannon Princess review includes a detailed description of the small ship including deck plans and a photo gallery. Please read our Shannon Princess barge review below then contact our small ship cruise experts to compare the Shannon Princess canal boat in Ireland with other small cruise ships and yachts offering small ship cruises in Northern Europe.
Choose the Shannon Princess barge for a hospitable Irish atmosphere paired with cuisine evocative of the landscapes through which she drifts. Immerse in Ireland’s rich cultural heritage and traditions, with daily options to explore by bike and on foot, as well as excellent fishing opportunities. This canal boat in Ireland is also an excellent option for private charter cruises, with themes including cycling, golf, fishing, pony-trekking, antiques, crafts and even spa treatments, or customize your own itinerary.
Shannon Princess barge’s light and airy saloon and dining area is wrapped in large picture windows that usher in the Irish countryside as the hotel barge rambles along. The well-stocked bar offers a wide range of wines, spirits, beers and soft drinks. The contemporary interior provides a feeling of respite among large sofas, armchairs and coffee tables. A door out to the lower sun deck invites indoor and outdoor lounging. The upper sun deck features a large outdoor patio that welcomes guests to observe Ireland’s rolling hills from the hot tub, chaise loungers, sofas, wicker chairs and dining table for al fresco meals.
This canal boat in Ireland invites her 10 guests to dine alongside each other at a communal table, with open seating. A relaxed ambiance is livened by gourmet fare and wine pairings delivered daily by the Master Chef. Signature dishes feature both classic Irish provisions and international favorites prepared by a Ballmaloe School-trained culinarian. Most allergies, preferences and special diets such as vegetarian, vegan and no fish may be accommodated with advanced notice.
The daily continental-style breakfast offers options such as onboard-baked fresh breads and pastries, fruit, cereals, fruit juices, tea and coffee; or opt for a full cooked Irish breakfast. Lunch typically features colorful salads, pates and fish dishes, and the occasional outdoor picnic on the upper sun deck, all paired with chef-selected wines. Dinner is always a gastronomic adventure with a taste of regional cuisine by candlelight, complemented by fine wines and followed by a selection of regional cheeses, coffee and liqueurs.
Non-alcoholic beverages, coffee, tea and milk are included, as is a 24-hour bar with wines, spirits, beers and soft drinks. All house wines are provided with meals and guests may enjoy a champagne welcome on arrival.
When docked, this Irish hotel barge meets its 12-guest minibus for transfers and excursions that aren’t within walking distance. Internet access is available at libraries and cyber cafes within the towns and villages visited during the cruise. The ship welcomes guests to remain on board during excursions as desired, or guests may choose to walk, ride a bike or fish both during excursions or while the Ireland barge cruises. Two bicycles are carried on board, and additional bikes can be provisioned with advanced notice. While the Princess Shannon barge does not carry fishing rods, a Gillie can be hired who will provide rods, the boat and all necessary equipment to take advantage of the outstanding fishing opportunities along the way.
On board, passengers may enjoy complimentary WiFi on their personal devices, subject to availability in remote locations. Passenger iPods may be connected to the stereo system, or CDs are available to enjoy. The upper sun deck’s 5-person hot tub provides moments of relaxation while the Ireland barge meanders along. Entertainment options also include a small library of books and maps to peruse, a collection of board games to play and binoculars for spotting birds. The open bridge encourages guests to chat with the captain and perhaps learn more about the vessel and Irish countryside through which she roams.
The Shannon Princess barge’s five temperature-controlled cabins each offers a choice of two single beds or one double bed. Large opening panoramic windows enable unrestricted views from each above-waterline suite. Each suite includes a fully tiled ensuite bathroom with shower, sink, toilet, 110-volt shaving socket, extractor fan, body wash, hand soap, shampoo, shower cap, towels, bathrobes and hair dryer. Each suite also offers a safe to secure valuables, as well as a closet with ample storage space, bottled water and chocolates. The Shannon Princess barge is wired for 220 volts, with sockets which correspond to the standard UK three-pin plug.
When it comes to river cruises, Ireland remains one of the most fascinating undiscovered locations in the world. Offering a mixture of folklore, quaint customs, friendly locals and the sort of lush green landscapes which earn the island its nickname of The Emerald Isle, this Classic Ireland River Cruise is sure to satisfy even the most demanding enthusiasts! During this Classic Ireland River Cruise, the nation’s very soul is placed within reach, including experiences of Irish music, crafts such as weaving, and a drop or more of their wonderful whiskey.
The Shannon is perhaps the ultimate location to enjoy the best river cruises. The country’s rolling green pastures, ancient Celtic monasteries and an abundance of wildlife are common place on this Ireland barge cruise’s carefully chosen route. Shannon River cruises in Ireland reveal legends and fables as well as the warm and hospitable Irish people. The people’s extraordinary history has been varied and sometimes difficult but they will always find the time to chat and pass the time of day.
Each departure operates round-trip from Dublin, Ireland, either cruising from Glasson south to Killaloe and returning via overland transfer back to Dublin, or in reverse starting with an overland transfer to Killaloe and cruising north back to Glasson with a return overland transfer back to Dublin. Each departure’s direction is typically confirmed 6-8 weeks in advance.
Cruise aboard the 10-passenger Shannon Princess, a spacious and powerful river cruise vessel specifically adapted for this waterway. She provides Shannon River cruises in Ireland throughout the season. Her experienced captain and crew go out of their way to ensure guests’ every need is accommodated. The onboard Master Chef was trained at the renowned Ballmaloe School and offers distinguished creations and signature dishes.
Securing Shannon Princess for private charter cruises in Ireland offers opportunities for themes including cycling, golf, fishing, pony-trekking, antiques, crafts and even spa treatments, or customize your own itinerary.
Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s Northern Europe cruises.