Loch Ness Monster

Spirit of Fortitude is one of the largest vessels to be able to transit the Caledonian Canal, watch in awe as she squeezes through the engineering marvel that is this Thomas Telford canal in this interesting and unique six night cruise, with two options - Oban to Inverness or Inverness to Oban. This voyage encompasses scenes of murders, monsters, castles, lochs and some of the most stunning landscapes you could ever wish to see. Starting from Oban, this journey encompasses the beautiful sea lochs of Loch Linnhe, Loch Ness and the Great Glen as well as sixty miles of the Caledonian Canal with its perfectly engineered locks. There is something for everyone on this cruise from exploration activities, (cycling & canoeing or a cable car up the side of Aonach Mor and para gliding) visits to ancient monuments and numerous sites of historical interest, gardens and castles, or sitting back soaking up the wildlife and stunning scenery created by the Great Glen Fault, that runs through Loch Linnhe and the Firth of Lorne and the great glen to Inverness. Keep an eye out for that rare glimpse of the Loch Ness Monster on Loch Ness! Passing places, anchorages and ports Oban Our gateway to the highlands and islands ……. Historically a fishing and trading village until the Victorian steamers started arriving in larger numbers to this pretty village, Oban grew into a town as it became a main stopping off point for the Western Isles. Set in a natural bay, it is largely protected from wilder weather and has some beautiful seaside shops to visit. At the top of the hill behind the bay sits McCaig's Tower or the Folly as it is better known. Built in 1902, McCaig built the colosseum style structure as a lasting testament to his family and also to provide work for the local tradesmen. Despite it being a steep walk to the top, the views are spectacular. Oban also boasts a cathedral, castle and a golf course and has a rich culture in traditional Scottish music and this is evident with its many festivals. Here, fresh seafood is a must, it is literally from sea to plate and is served up beautifully by our on-board chef. Ladys Rock At the entrance to the Sound of Mull sits Eilean Musdale and the lighthouse that bears her name. Built in 1833 by Robert Stevenson – the grandfather of the acclaimed writer Robert Louis Stevenson , the lighthouse replaced a tall standing stone that had sat there for centuries. Just southwest is Lady’s Rock, where Lachlan Maclean left his wife to die in 1527. Having decided to murder her, he rowed the unfortunate Lady Catherine out to the island to leave her to die. The very morning after, he looked out from his home at Duart Castle and seeing no sign of life and assuming that she was dead – he sent a message to his deceased wife’s brother the Earl of Argyll at Inveraray Castle –