Weekly or short-break self-charter boating holidays on Loch Ness and the Caledonian Canal
We operate a large fleet of modern, high quality motor cruisers, all fully equipped and available for weekly or short-break self charter cruises on Loch Ness and the Caledonian Canal.
With 24 vessels and a range of 9 different classes to choose from, whichever boat you choose, you can be assured it will be the perfect vantage point to explore 60 miles of Europe’s most beautiful inland waterway. Our existing fleet is specifically designed for our unique waterway, each vessel being fitted out at our premises in Inverness.
Our Boats
Our fleet is specifically designed for our unique waterway, each vessel being fitted out at our premises in Inverness…
Our Area
Based in Inverness, in the north-east of Scotland, this is both the pick up and return point for all cruises with us. Conveniently located just a few minutes drive from the city centre, we are just 2 miles from Inverness Train Station and 10 miles from Inverness Airport.
Instructional Videos
We hope you enjoy watching these short films. They should provide you with a good picture as to what cruising the Caledonian Canal is about.
Meet Our Team
To keep our fleet in tip top condition, we have dedicated a team who look after all aspects of maintaining the hire fleet, from the rudder, shaft and engine right through to interiors and furnishings.
Our Story
Established in 1969, we celebrated our 50th anniversary in 2019 and during our many years of operation we have introduced thousands of couples and families to the splendours of the Great Glen. No previous boating experience or licence are necessary (approximately one third of our customers are completely new to boating) and we provide a comprehensive handover with 24 hour support service during your stay.
Customers love their holidays and come back time and again
Rated out of 5 stars based on customer reviews
Latest news & updates from Caley Cruisers
Better Than Socks Father’s Day Gift Voucher
Father’s Day – Sunday 21st June Purchase your gift voucher now and receive a Father’s Day Gift Pack in advance — so you will have something special ready to give…
YOUR HIGHLAND ESCAPE, WITHOUT THE CROWDS
There is something truly special about the Scottish Highlands outside the peak season. The first week of the season – snow-capped mountain tops, crisp mornings and the feeling of being…
May Bank Holiday Escape on the Water
Still looking for something special for the May bank holiday weekend? We have a limited number of boats still available for a 3-night stay (Friday to Monday) – perfect for…
Charity Partner for 2026
This year, we are supporting Crocus Highland as our partner charity. Crocus Highland is a bereavement support service for children and young people living in the Highlands. Services are available free…
Introducing our new STV Advert for 2025/2026!
We are excited to annouce the launch of our new STV advert. The advert will air across different STV regions this December. Keep an eye out! Commercial produced by Rock…
Start or end the 2026 season with an adventure!
We are celebrating finishing our 2025 season with an incredible 25% off hire rental for the first or last week of the season in 2026. 🗓️ Book to arrive on:…
Looking for the Perfect Gift? Make 2026 One to Rememeber
Whether it’s a milestone birthday, a well-earned retirement, a festive Christmas surprise, or just a thoughtful “thinking of you” gesture—finding the perfect gift isn’t always easy. But this year, why…
Adventure Awaits!
Step aboard our luxury houseboat. – Ideally located for outdoor adventures: fishing, kayaking, hiking, running and cycling. – All the comforts of home. – Surrounded by nature. Adventure awaits. #uniqueairbnb…
Explore, Paddle, Stay, Repeat
Paddling the Great Glen Canoe Trail? Stay with us at the start (or end) of your journey to make your trip even more special and completely stress free. You can…
Solo Travel on the Caledonian Canal
A gentle breeze, still waters and a heart full of quiet. This is what peace looks like! “The marina is a quiet haven within easy reach of Inverness city centre…
Canal Magic in the Scottish Highlands
Looking for peace, beauty or a little adventure? Think tranquil waters, breathtaking Highland views, cozy nights and unforgettable moments.
All Aboard! We are pet friendly!
Every Captain needs their four-legged First Mate…plus your furry friend deserves a holiday too! To make their adventure extra special, we now include a Dog Welcome Pack! We have teamed…
Eriskay Walkthrough
Our Eriskay Class is the perfect small boat for families or couples. With even more flexibility, with no set change over days and as little as a two night stay,…
Strathspey Walkthrough
Have a look around the Strathspey! A very popular boat in our fleet, it is perfect for 2 couples or friends, with plenty of space to relax. As we only…
Torridon Walkthrough
Check out the Torridon class in some more detail with Derek. This boat is very spacious and perfect for larger groups or families, so you can still have your own…
Experience Autumn on the Caledonian Canal
Explore our latest autumn offers and experience the stunning colours of the Highlands before the end of the season! Unlock exclusive discount codes here.
Nikki’s Recommendations
Staff Recommendations – Part 4! Hear from Nikki, our Reservations Manager, on her favourite things to see and do along the canal. If you see Captain Nemo in the office,…
Balmoral Walkthrough
The Balmoral Class! A very popular boat class in our fleet, that is perfect for families. Take a look around and learn more about the Balmoral.
Lindsey’s Recommendations
Part 3 of our Staff Recommendations series highlighting our favorite things to see and do along the canal. Our manager Lindsey recently travelled down the second half of the canal…
Derek’s Recommendations
Part 2 of our Staff Recommendations series highlighting our favorite things to see and do along the canal.
Isle of Skye Walkthrough
Take a look at our beautiful Isle of Skye – also known as our honeymoon boat due to her generous sized double cabin: perfect for couples!
Discover Why Caley Cruisers is the Best Choice for Boat Hire
Trust us, it’s an adventure you don’t want to miss! When it comes to choosing the best boat hire for your needs, we know you have a few options in…
Maddy’s Recommendations
Part 1 of our Staff Recommendations series highlighting our favoritethings to see and do along the canal.
Islay Class – new for 2024
Come and explore our new boat with us.
Kinging-It Travel Blog
We were delighted to work with Craig and Aimee on their new blog with Visit Scotland and Scottish Canals. They tried boat life for 72 hours. Was it for them?
The Highlands are one of the “Best of the World” destinations to visit in 2023!
It’s no surprise that the Highlands are one of National Geographic’s top 5 places to visit in the world in 2023. Check out the full story here:
Our beautiful Kintail class was featured on Channel 4’s “Great Canal Journeys” with Timothy West & Prunella Scales. Kintail, and every other vessel on our fleet, was fitted out by our own team and is specifically designed for our unique cruising area. The spectacular scenery, combined with a beautiful cruiser and our first class service will ensure your holiday with Caley Cruisers is one of the most memorable and enjoyable experiences you will ever have. We are sure you will find the ideal boat to suit your party whether your looking for something to suit a couple, family or large group.
Established in 1970, we celebrated our 50th anniversary in 2020 and during our many years of operation we have introduced thousands of couples and families to the splendours of the Great Glen. No previous boating experience or licence are necessary (approximately one third of our customers are completely new to boating) and we provide a comprehensive handover with 24 hour support service during your stay. You will find a lot of detailed information about our boats, cruising area and our service contained within this website and we hope it provides the answer to any questions you may have. However, please please do not hesitate to contact us, if you have any specific queries – we would be delighted to assist. Book you perfect boating holidays Scotland.
You can check LIVE availability on our website and place a booking this way at any time. Please note that due to the online booking system in place, the availability is subject to change at any time. We therefore recommend booking online.
We look forward to hearing from you!
Get in Touch
The Reservations Team
Tel: 01463 236328
Email: info@caleycruisers.com
Need a quick answer?
You can now chat with us on Whats App for quick questions about bookings or enquiries.
Tuesday, Friday08:00 – 17:00
Wednesday08:00 – 16:00
Thursday12:00 – 17:00
Saturday08:00 – 15:00
Sunday, MondayCLOSED
Caley Cruisers have been offering boating holidays on Loch Ness and the Caledonian Canal since 1970 and we celebrated our 50th anniversary in 2020! Weekly or short break charter is available from April to October inclusive. No previous boating experience necessary as full training given. Cruising 60 miles of Europes most beautiful inland waterways will be one of the most memorable experiences you will ever have. So if you are looking for the perfect boating holiday in Scotland, or Caledonian Canal boat hire look no further.
Caley Cruisers Ltd is approved by HMRC as a registered dealer in controlled oil.