Moorings on the Caledonian Canal
Key facts
- Type
- Canal
- Managed by
- Scottish Canals
- Total length
- 97 km(60 miles)
- Region
- Scottish Highlands
The Caledonian Canal cuts across the Scottish Highlands through the Great Glen, linking the North Sea at Inverness to the Atlantic Ocean at Corpach, near Fort William, in 97 kilometres. Designed by Thomas Telford and opened in 1822, it incorporates a series of spectacular natural lochs — Loch Dochfour, Loch Ness, Loch Oich, and Loch Lochy — connected by canal sections with 29 locks. For boat owners, the Caledonian Canal offers one of the most dramatic waterway experiences in Britain, passing through the heart of the Highlands with the Nevis Range and the Cairngorms as backdrop. It is primarily a passage route for sailing and motor yachts moving between the east and west coasts, but long-stay moorings are available at Inverness, Fort Augustus, and Corpach. Loch Ness provides 37 kilometres of deep, dark water with its famous resident.