Cruise the lochs of Scotland with TV’s Kirsty Wark

HERE’S your chance to explore Scotland’s Caledonian Canal and hidden lochs on a fabulous five-night voyage from Inverness to Oban. You’ll be sailing on Lord of the Glens, a traditionally furnished, yacht-style ship that’s small enough to pass through the canal locks and offers personalised service to its 52 guests.

On this unforgettable trip, you’ll have the opportunity to meet proud Scotswoman and broadcaster Kirsty Wark. She will be on hand to chat with guests about the history of modern Scotland – the perfect conversation as you travel through the Caledonian Canal, a masterpiece of 19th Century engineering.

You’ll also take a scenic train journey over the renowned Glenfinnan Viaduct, made even more famous when the Hogwarts Express crossed it in the Harry Potter movies.

Descending through the eight interconnected locks of Neptune’s Staircase will be a memorable moment as Lord of the Glens is slowly lowered back to sea level following its journey through the Great Glen.

A stop at the prettily painted waterfront town of Tobermory provides an opportunity to explore on foot, and you will be able to take a walking tour around Oban, where you’ll visit McCaig’s Folly – a hilltop tower with panoramic views across Oban Bay.

This trip is a full-board cruise, and on each of the five evenings of sailing you’ll be seated for dinner in the Robert Louis Stevenson restaurant for banquet-style, three-course meals.

Guests can also enjoy the David Livingstone Lounge and Sir Walter Scott Bar, fitted with rich mahogany tables and plush sofas, including original armchairs from the legendary Cote d’Azur Express.

REASONS TO BOOK

Meet Kirsty Wark: The broadcaster and journalist will join the voyage for an excursion and to give an insightful talk about her life and career. Listen as Kirsty discusses modern Scottish history while you explore some of the nation’s finest engineering accomplishments.

The Caledonian Canal: Conceived in 1773 and built between 1803 and 1822 to connect the Great Glen’s four lochs, the canal is an engineering marvel. It features the picturesque, tree-lined Laggan Avenue and the eight interconnected locks of Neptune’s Staircase that lowers vessels back to sea level.

Spectacular views of the Inner Hebrides: As well as being the seafood capital of Scotland, Oban is home to McCaig’s Folly, which boasts glorious views across Oban Bay to the islands of the Inner Hebrides.

Loch Ness and Urquhart Castle: Keep your eyes peeled for a sighting of the mythical monster in Loch Ness while you sail past the ruins of Urquhart Castle and ascend the impressive Fort Augustus Locks.

Meet like-minded others: There’s a convivial atmosphere on board Lord of the Glens, and as one of just 52 guests on this yacht-style ship, you’ll have the opportunity to meet other passengers and enjoy meals and excursions together.

Sail on a splendid small ship: On Lord of the Glens you will see David Roberts’s lithographs, furniture from RMS Windsor Castle and light fittings from SS France. Lord of the Glens has a superb restaurant, elegant bar and panoramic windows.