Discover the captivating allure of Loch Ness on an unforgettable one-hour guided canoe tour. Departing from the charming town of Fort Augustus, adventurers will paddle along the serene southern shore, seeing the breathtaking scenery and rich history of this iconic Scottish landmark. With a knowledgeable, English-speaking guide leading the way, participants can expect to learn about the legendary Loch Ness Monster while taking in the stunning views of the River Oich and nearby historical sites. This intimate adventure, limited to a maximum of 10 paddlers, promises a personalized experience that captivates the senses and leaves one eager to uncover more of Loch Ness’ captivating secrets.
This experience made our list of the 4 Best Tours In Fort Augustus.
Key Points
- Guided 1-hour canoe tour on Loch Ness, exploring the southern shore and offering views of the River Oich mouth and historical sites.
- Tour departs from Fort Augustus and is led by an English-speaking qualified canoe guide, suitable for families with children aged 5-9.
- Prices start from Kč828 per person, with a maximum group size of 10 participants for a personalized experience.
- Includes insights into the history and legends of Loch Ness, with the opportunity to immerse in the natural beauty and captivating stories.
- Canoes, necessary equipment, and buoyancy aids are provided, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for the well-being of the group.
Activity Description
The 1-hour guided canoe tour on Loch Ness takes participants on an immersive journey through the iconic Scottish landscape.
Departing from Fort Augustus, the tour explores the southern shore of the loch, offering breathtaking vistas of the mouth of the River Oich and historical sites like the old pier.
Led by an English-speaking qualified canoe guide, the experience provides insights into the rich history, myths, and legends surrounding Loch Ness.
Suitable for families, including young children aged 5-9, the tour accommodates up to 10 participants per group and includes all necessary canoeing equipment and buoyancy aids, ensuring a safe and enjoyable adventure on the waters of this renowned Scottish landmark.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Fort Augustus.
Location and Meeting Point
Accessible by bus from both Inverness and Fort William, the Loch Ness Canoe Tour departs from Fort Augustus.
The meeting point is the Loch Ness Viewpoint on Inveroich Pier, which is about a 10-minute walk from the main public car park in Fort Augustus. Ample parking is available in this car park for those driving to the tour’s starting point.
Once at the meeting point, you will be greeted by the experienced, English-speaking canoe guide who’ll provide all the necessary equipment and safety briefing before launching the 2 or 3-person canoes onto the iconic Loch Ness.
Pricing and Cancellation
For the Loch Ness Canoe Tour, prices start from Kč828 per person.
The tour lasts for 1 hour and is limited to a group size of 10 participants. An English-speaking qualified canoe guide will lead the experience.
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, allowing for a full refund. This makes the tour an accessible and flexible option for those looking to explore the iconic Loch Ness.
Whether you’re a family or an individual, the Loch Ness Canoe Tour offers an affordable way to learn about the history and legends of this legendary Scottish landmark.
Group Size and Instructor
The Loch Ness Canoe Tour limits its group size to 10 participants, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.
With an experienced, English-speaking qualified canoe guide leading the way, guests can feel confident in their safety and enjoy a knowledgeable interpretation of the history, myths, and legends surrounding the iconic Loch Ness.
Whether you’re a family with young children or an adventurous solo traveler, this guided tour provides a wonderful opportunity to learn about the natural beauty and captivating stories of this legendary Scottish locale.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyHighlights and Experiences
Canoeing on iconic Loch Ness offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in the captivating history, myths, and legends that have long surrounded this legendary Scottish locale.
As you glide across the serene waters, you’ll:
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Learn about the mysterious "Loch Ness Monster" and other tales that have captured the imagination of visitors for generations.
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Enjoy sweeping views of the southern shore, the mouth of the River Oich, and historical sites like the old pier.
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Discover the region’s rich heritage, with the chance to spot wildlife and take in the breathtaking natural beauty.
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Set out on a family-friendly adventure, with the option for young children to join the journey.
Equipment and Safety
Included in the tour are 2 or 3-person canoes, all necessary canoeing equipment, and buoyancy aids to ensure safety and comfort.
The experienced canoe guide is responsible for maintaining a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants.
The tour isn’t suitable for children under 5 years old, people over 264 lbs (120 kg), or individuals with recent surgeries or health issues. This is to prioritize the well-being of the group and ensure everyone can fully enjoy the Loch Ness experience.
With the proper equipment and guidance, participants can focus on exploring the iconic waterway and its historic surroundings.
Transportation Options
To access the Loch Ness Canoe Tour, buses are available from nearby cities like Inverness and Fort William.
Visitors can also drive via the A82 road. Parking is available in the main public car park in Fort Augustus, which is a 10-minute walk from the meeting point at the Loch Ness Viewpoint on Inveroich Pier.
The meeting point is conveniently located, allowing participants to easily find the starting location for the tour.
With multiple transportation options and ample parking, getting to the Loch Ness Canoe Tour is straightforward, making it accessible for visitors from various locations.
Customer Feedback
Based on the 5 stars that the Loch Ness Canoe Tour has received from 6 reviews, customers have overwhelmingly enjoyed their experience.
One reviewer raved that their guide Katie made the tour "fun and engaging," while another highlighted the "incredible views of Loch Ness" as a highlight of their Scottish holiday.
The tour’s perfect rating suggests it delivers on its promises, providing a unique opportunity to explore the iconic loch from the water while learning about its history and legends.
With a qualified guide ensuring safety and enjoyment, the Loch Ness Canoe Tour seems to offer an exceptional one-hour adventure for visitors.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Likely Is It to Spot the Loch Ness Monster During the Tour?
While sightings of the Loch Ness Monster have been reported over the years, the chances of spotting it during the 1-hour guided canoe tour are quite low. The tour focuses on the history, myths, and natural beauty of Loch Ness.
Can We Bring Our Own Snacks and Drinks on the Canoe?
Participants are welcome to bring their own snacks and drinks on the canoe tour. The tour operator encourages guests to pack a light picnic to enjoy during the excursion, as there are no catering facilities provided.
Is There an Age Limit for Children Participating in the Tour?
The tour has an age limit for children – it’s suitable for kids aged 5-9 years old, who can sit on an extra third seat in the canoe. Children under 5 are not permitted on the tour.
Do We Need to Have Prior Canoeing Experience to Join the Tour?
No, prior canoeing experience is not required to join the tour. The experienced guide ensures the safety and enjoyment of all participants, including those with no previous experience. The canoes and equipment are provided as part of the tour.
Can We Extend the Tour Duration Beyond the Standard 1 Hour?
The standard tour duration is 1 hour, but it can’t be extended. Participants don’t need prior canoeing experience, as the experienced guide ensures the safety and enjoyment of the group throughout the tour.
Recap
The Loch Ness canoe tour offers a unique and immersive way to experience the enchanting beauty of this iconic Scottish landmark. With a knowledgeable guide, you’ll paddle along the southern shore, learning about the legendary Loch Ness Monster and taking in stunning views of the River Oich and historical sites. This intimate adventure is perfect for families and adventurers seeking a safe and personalized exploration of the region’s rich heritage and wildlife.
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