Cruise the spectacular west coast of Scotland with Carol Kirkwood
SCOTLAND’S west coast is home to some of the most breathtaking scenery across the UK, with its remote and mysterious islands, the Highlands and spectacular lochs.
Step aboard Lord Of The Glens, a traditionally furnished yacht-style ship that’s small enough to navigate the locks of the Caledonian Canal and offer personalised service to 54 guests. Setting sail from Inverness, you’ll also explore Scotland’s hidden sea lochs on a seven-night voyage.
Joining the trip for a drinks reception will be meteorologist, weather presenter and proud Scotswoman Carol Kirkwood. She will give a talk and host a question and answer session. You’ll also have the opportunity to learn about the renowned Glenfinnan Viaduct, famously crossed by the Hogwarts Express in the Harry Potter movies.
Descending through the eight interconnected locks of Neptune’s Staircase will be a memorable moment on the itinerary as the ship is slowly lowered back to sea level following its journey through the Great Glen. A stop at the pretty painted waterfront town of Tobermory provides an opportunity to explore on foot, along with a walking tour around Oban. Here you’ll visit McCaig’s Folly, a hilltop tower with far-reaching views across Oban Bay and the Atlantic Islands.
This cruise is full-board, and on each of the seven evenings you’ll be seated for dinner in the Robert Louis Stevenson restaurant for banquet-style, three-course meals.
To finish each evening, guests can enjoy the David Livingstone Lounge or Sir Walter Scott Bar, fitted with rich mahogany tables, plush sofas and original 1929 armchairs from the legendary Cote d’Azur Express.
REASONS TO BOOK
Meet Carol Kirkwood: The weather presenter will give a talk about her career, love of Scotland, Strictly Come Dancing experience and her life growing up in the village of Morar.
The Caledonian Canal: Built between 1803 and 1822 to connect the Great Glen’s four lochs, the Caledonian Canal is an engineering marvel, featuring the picturesque, tree-lined Laggan Avenue and the eight interconnected locks of Neptune’s Staircase that lower vessels back to sea level.
Views of the Inner Hebrides: As well as being the seafood capital of Scotland, Oban is home to McCaig’s Folly, which has farreaching views across Oban Bay to the Inner Hebrides.
Loch Ness and Urquhart Castle: Keep your eyes peeled for the Loch Ness monster while you sail past the romantic ruins of Urquhart Castle and ascend the impressive flight of locks that run through the heart of Fort Augustus.
Meet like-minded individuals: There’s a convivial atmosphere on board Lord Of The Glens. As one of just 54 guests on this yacht-style ship, you’ll have the opportunity to meet other passengers and enjoy meals and excursions together if you choose to.
Sail on a splendid small ship: On Lord Of The Glens you will see armchairs from the Cote d’Azur Express, David Roberts lithographs, furniture from RMS Windsor Castle and light fittings from cruise liner SS France. It also has a fantastic restaurant, elegant bar and panoramic windows.