Loch Ness Sightseeing Cruise with Visit to Urquhart Castle from Clansman Harbour
4.5
Loch Ness Sightseeing Cruise with Visit to Urquhart Castle from Clansman Harbour
By Loch Ness by Jacobite
About
For those who adore history as much as they love mystery, a Loch Ness tour with a visit to Urquhart Castle is a much. Look out for Nessie, the loch’s notorious monster, as you cruise to the medieval ruins, then learn about the role the castle played in Scotland’s long battle for independence.
Ages 3-99
Duration: 2h
Start time: Check availability
Mobile ticket
Highlights
- Cruise the tranquil waters of Loch Ness, watching for the monster
- See the medieval ruins of Urquhart Castle on the shores of Loch Ness
- Save money by traveling to Loch Ness independently
- Choose from multiple departures throughout the day
- 1-hour boat cruise
What's not included- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Admission to Urquhart Castle
- Food and drinks
- Gratuities
- Make your own way to Loch Ness' Clansman Harbour, a 25-minute bus ride from Inverness Station, and choose between indoor and outdoor seating on the comfortable boat. Cruise across Loch Ness, keeping an eye out for Nessie, the notorious monster that’s rumored to frequent the lake, to Urquhart Castle. Here you might choose to explore the ruins independently with help from the informative visitor center, or save your funds, capture some pictures, and wander the shore. After your visit, board the boat to return to Clansman Harbour, and travel to your next destination independently.
- Start:
- Loch Ness by Jacobite - Clansman Harbour, Clansman, Harbour, Inverness IV3 8AU, UKAddress: Clansman Harbour, Loch Ness side, Inverness-shire Directions: Meet opposite the Clansman Hotel on the A82, 9 miles South West of Inverness
End:This activity ends back at the meeting point. - Not wheelchair accessible
If you have questions about accessibility, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 6570FRE- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- Approximately a 20 minute (10.4 miles) drive from Inverness
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
- If you have questions about this tour or need help making your booking, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 6570FRE
About the operator
Don’t take it from us – here’s what people have to say about this operator:
- baker7out0 contributionsLousy Software and Customer ServiceThis was a terrible experience. We tried to book this for the 18th and software changed the date to the 24th. We caught the error and rebooked for the 18th. However, when we got there the pick never showed up. We waited for 20 min. and then called. That is when we were told that we had no booking. So, we looked it up and found out it had been changed again to the 24th. So, we did not get to take this trip due to the software used by this company. It really ruined our time in the Highlands. Also, when my wife called and asked about the booking, the representative for company hung up on her. We will not use this place again.Written March 18, 2024
- 429tusharb0 contributionsWorth it, "Saw something in the water, don't know what!?"The view is amazing, but better than that, were the crew member. Special shout out to Iain and John! Amazing staff, amazing engagement, much recommended!Written March 18, 2024
- garyhH2125GC0 contributionsGreat trip down Loch NessTrip was very easy to book, the guide was friendly and informative. Amazing smooth boat trip with beautiful views of the Loch. Plenty of time to roam the castle and gift shop before the coach took us on a scenic route back to Inverness centre. Would highly recommend.Written March 17, 2024
- _I3306BH0 contributionsYou should try it!Very good tour. Our guide was so knowledgeable about nature, plants, animals and she gave us many many information about the area generally. Safe driving also. Mini tour in the centre of Inverness (we did temptation). The guide at the cruise was also good and sympathetic. Beautiful pictures! We stayed at Edinburgh but we took the train to Inverness and got back at the same night but we realised that it would be better going to Inverness for some days instead of Edinburgh. It was much more pretty, clean, quiet and seemed to have enough activities. Recommend it!!!Written March 13, 2024
- I8361WWsamantham0 contributionsReally enjoyableDespite the weather causing the cruise across Loch Ness to be cancelled, We were informed prior to getting on the coach that the cruise wasn’t taking place and give the option to cancel. They then said we had to claim a refund, but this was not the case, the refund was paid back into our bank accounts before we got back from the trip. We didn’t get to see Nessy!!!! But the castle was beautiful well worth the visit. Janet the coach driver, was a topical Scottish lassie! Her safe and considerate driving made us feel safe on board. Her historical facts kept us engaged and her stories made the trip a laugh! Brilliant tour, brilliant company and brilliant diver/tour guideWritten March 13, 2024
- amanda58050 contributionsMisty Ride learning about Loch NessMy experience on the Loch Ness 1-Hour Cruise with Urquhart Castle Views, operated by Jacobite, was both memorable and enjoyable.The staff were exceptionally friendly and accommodating, adding to the overall positive experience. Although the weather was foggy and cold, we had the option to sit either inside or outside the boat. Despite the chilly conditions, my spouse and I opted to brave the weather and sat outside for most of the ride. The misty atmosphere added an eerie charm to the journey, enhancing the mystique of Loch Ness. While we didn't catch a glimpse of Nessie, the legendary Loch Ness Monster, we thoroughly enjoyed the boat ride and the informative commentary provided by the crew. Learning about the history and stories of the lake and its elusive resident was fascinating and added depth to the experience. In hindsight, I would recommend taking a later boat ride, as the fog may have obscured some of the views during our early morning excursion. Additionally, for those interested, there is an option to disembark and explore Urquhart Castle, although we opted to enjoy the scenic cruise from the comfort of the boat, how we already planned on stopping there when we driveway later that morning. Onboard amenities, including snacks, beverages, and washrooms, were greatly appreciated and added to the overall comfort of the journey.Written March 13, 2024
- RRHoney0 contributionsBeautiful views!Super spacious boat! Beautiful views! Space to stay on upper or lower decks outside or in the warm Cabin. Plenty of snacks and hot drinks available at reasonable prices. Wonderful staff. Great commentary!Written March 11, 2024
- Neil500000 contributionsDidn't see Nessie.... didn't mind, a great trip / tour.Lovely tour with a great crew, a really nice vessel and the best views and scenery in the world. We had a 2 1/2 hour tour that ran from the northern end of the Loch to Urquhart Castle and back. The crew made the tour a real pleasure with their descriptive talk during the route as well as the personal touch of talking to the individual Customers throughout. I'd definitely do it again and recommend it to anyone visiting Scotland.Written March 11, 2024
- R1907VDlaurad20220 contributionsGreat tour with great guides.We took the Temptation tour of Loch Ness and Urquhart Castle from Inverness last week and we had a wonderful time. The coach was clean and comfortable and the driver Ciaran was very friendly and warm and his commentary was great, very informative but with a lovely personal touch, like pointing out his favourite pub and the cafe he takes his dog too. The speakers on the coach didn't work very well so we missed some of what Ciaran was saying which was a shame. The boat trip was also great, the Guide for that was equally warm and knowledgeable and his commentary was very interesting and informative. We were lucky to have great weather and so walking around the ruins of Urquhart Castle was also very enjoyable. I would recommend this tour to anyone.Written March 11, 2024
- amyandjonathans0 contributionsRelaxing way to tour Loch and UrquhartWent on loch cruise while vacationing to Inverness. Appreciated the bus service from Inverness to the Castle with the Loch cruise. Enjoyed the cruise guide giving back history on Nessie and talking about the castle. Fun and convenient. Thanks!Written March 10, 2024
- I6126NNalb0 contributionsGreat family tripGreat trip. Crew were very friendly helpful and very knowledgeable. Need to go on this trip rather than 1 hour trip. Miss so much otherwise.Written March 9, 2024
- Q1838GWchrisc0 contributionsExcellent and worth every pennyThis was amazing and worth every penny, I highly recommend! Our tour driver Kirin was awesome and went above and beyond in educating us along the drive, just excellent.Written March 8, 2024
- m3hrab0 contributionsBest serviceGreat service! Very professional and very smooth service. Best service among all the tour operators. I would recommend to all my friends.Written March 5, 2024
- onthemove5750 contributionsA great trip on Loch NessEnjoyed my first trip on Loch Ness with Jacobite Sailed to Urquhart Castle and back on the fantastic boat with great commentary and tales told by John Lucky to have got a good day for the trip and plenty photos taken Great friendly crew on board and ashore Quite a few steps to get from the hotel to get to the boat maybe not so handy for folk with mobility issues but certainly worth it Thanks all @ JacobiteWritten March 5, 2024
- X7552RGjasons0 contributionsExcellent cruise on Loch NessReally enjoyed our cruise yesterday, well organised, stunning views and friendly staff in particular the guide (apologies we didn't catch his name). He was knowledgeable, engaging with a great sense of humour. Would highly recommend.Written March 3, 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinions of Tripadvisor members and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
79 reviews
Excellent
55
Very good
20
Average
4
Poor
0
Terrible
0
Paul S
Liverpool, UK50 contributions
Lovely cruise with stunning views, easy to board with friendly staff. Steep climbs around the castle ruins.
Written August 7, 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for taking the time to leave us your lovely review.
We are delighted to hear that you enjoyed your tour with us..
Thank you for cruising with Loch Ness by Jacobite. We hope to welcome you back on board in the future.
Written August 13, 2019
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Rupa D
Ashburn15 contributions
Jul 2019 • Family
We just had this ride yesterday, July 31. It was about 45 minutes or so long and took us to Urquhart castle. We got our ticket through our driver on Rabi's tour.
The boat ride was the highlight for my day. The ride was peaceful and very scenic. We were on the top deck to take in the scenery fully. The boat was clean. The commentary by the guide on board was wonderful. He even sang a Gaelic song for us that fitted the mood and the scenery. I thanked him later for it but unfortunately did not get the name of the song. I was trying to find it on the internet and could not find it. If you read this review, please let me know the song.
Anyways, beautiful trip! I recommend this trip wholeheartedly for all who want to enjoy the beauty of Loch Ness and its surroundings.
The boat ride was the highlight for my day. The ride was peaceful and very scenic. We were on the top deck to take in the scenery fully. The boat was clean. The commentary by the guide on board was wonderful. He even sang a Gaelic song for us that fitted the mood and the scenery. I thanked him later for it but unfortunately did not get the name of the song. I was trying to find it on the internet and could not find it. If you read this review, please let me know the song.
Anyways, beautiful trip! I recommend this trip wholeheartedly for all who want to enjoy the beauty of Loch Ness and its surroundings.
Written August 1, 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for taking the time to leave us your wonderful 5 star review.
We are delighted to hear that you enjoyed your tour with us. Sounds like you had our lovely guide Kenny, he has quite a few different songs which he sings, we can try find out for you if you, please email info@jacobite.co.uk.
Thank you for cruising with Loch Ness by Jacobite. We hope to welcome you back on board in the future.
Written August 7, 2019
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Peter T
Millis, MA16 contributions
Jul 2019 • Family
The cruise is about 30 mins to the castle, an hour there, and 30 minutes to return - and it's a perfect amount of time to be on the Loch and at the Castle. If you really want to dig in and visit the center, you should take a different expedition there.
The Jacobite team was super helpful and the ships crew were quite friendly. The guides as the castle were informative and fun as well.
NOTE: we arrived too late for our booked departure and they accommodated us on the next (just an hour wait). That was very cool during the height of the summer tourist season! Kudos to them and their staff!
The Jacobite team was super helpful and the ships crew were quite friendly. The guides as the castle were informative and fun as well.
NOTE: we arrived too late for our booked departure and they accommodated us on the next (just an hour wait). That was very cool during the height of the summer tourist season! Kudos to them and their staff!
Written July 30, 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for taking the time to leave us such a wonderful review.
We are delighted to hear that you enjoyed your tour with us.
Thank you for cruising with Loch Ness by Jacobite. We hope to welcome you back on board in the future.
Written July 31, 2019
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
sansi2012
Milton Keynes, UK65 contributions
The cruise along with the time in the castle is 2 hours which is enough to see everything around. A really good way to see Loch Ness and the price is also competitive.
Written July 24, 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for taking the time to leave us your valuable feedback.
We are so glad to hear that you enjoyed your cruise with us.
Thank you for cruising with Loch Ness by Jacobite. We hope to welcome you back on board in the future.
Written July 25, 2019
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Dean
Dundee, UK6 contributions
Jul 2019 • Family
We chose this particular trip because we have 2 young kids (3 and 7 years old) and we didn't want them getting board with a long boat trip. Plus we wanted to visit Urquhart Castle, this trip fitted the bill. The kids (and adults) thoroughly enjoyed it. One thing I would caution is, 1 hour at Urquhart Castle isn't very long especially at busy times. So if you want to spend longer here, maybe a different trip would suit better.
The service is very professional and punctual - so don't be late.
The boat itself was very clean offering purchasable refreshments including a well known coffee brand.
The is an option to sit outside on the top deck or inside in the lower deck. And the information given during the trip is interesting and informative with a wee touch of mystery!!
Being on Loch Ness its impossible not to cast an eye over the waters.....just in case!!!!
The service is very professional and punctual - so don't be late.
The boat itself was very clean offering purchasable refreshments including a well known coffee brand.
The is an option to sit outside on the top deck or inside in the lower deck. And the information given during the trip is interesting and informative with a wee touch of mystery!!
Being on Loch Ness its impossible not to cast an eye over the waters.....just in case!!!!
Written July 19, 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for taking the time to leave us such a lovely review.
We are so glad to hear that you enjoyed your cruise with us.
Thank you for cruising with Loch Ness by Jacobite. We hope to welcome you back on board in the future.
Written July 23, 2019
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
TinaB6671
Secret Harbour, Australia40 contributions
Jun 2019 • Couples
This a great way to cruise along the Loch Ness & visit the Urquhart Castle. Plenty of time to explore the castle and good commentary along the way.
Written July 16, 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your super review.
We are so pleased that you enjoyed your visit with us.
Thank you for choosing Loch Ness by Jacobite, we hope we can welcome you back on board in the future.
Written July 17, 2019
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
PMCHawk
Manchester, UK11 contributions
Jun 2019 • Couples
We were in the newest boat of the fleet, but I would really recommend this company because of their staff. They are very knowledge about the history and geography but their customer service is above and beyond. I left my phone at the castle stop and was one the boat again before i noticed. The staff called back to site, found my phone and arranged it to be bused back to my end point (even though this was a detour for the bus).
Written June 24, 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for taking the time to leave us a 5 star review.
We are delighted that you enjoyed your tour with us so much. Our crew will be so pleased to hear how highly you thought of their service.
Thank your for cruising with Loch Ness by Jacobite, we hope to welcome you back on board in the future.
Written June 26, 2019
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Terry C
Coachella Valley, CA64 contributions
Jun 2019 • Couples
The Lochness sight seeing tour along the canal and the stop at the 2 hour stop at the Urquhart Castle grounds and Visitor Center provided us with enough time to take lots of pictures as well as hike to the visitor center to eat lunch. The crew at the “Rebel” boat was very informative and entertaining. His name is Kenny. He is very knowledgeable about the clans, the history of places we passed and even current history. He sang a few traditional Scottish songs as well.
Written June 23, 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for taking the time to leave us such a wonderful review.
We are delighted that you enjoyed your tour with us so much. Our crew will be delighted to hear your lovely comments, Kenny is a very talented guide!
Thank your for cruising with Loch Ness by Jacobite, we hope to welcome you back on board in the future.
Written June 26, 2019
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
dw13martin
Jasper, GA60 contributions
Jun 2019 • Couples
This is a great service and very well run. The boats ran on time and the guides gave very informative presentations along the way. Urquart Castle is a very impressive relic with a great museum and gift shop. We only allowed an hour for the Castle stop, I would recommend that you choose the the two hour option - almost the same price. You will need to walk up the hill from the dock to the castle and gift shop - another reason to give yourself that extra hour. It also helps if you have great weather and we did.
Written June 18, 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for taking the time to leave us your wonderful review.
We are so glad you enjoyed your tour with Loch Ness by Jacobite.
We will pass your lovely comments onto the crew.
Many thanks for cruising with us, we hope to welcome you back on board in the future.
Written June 20, 2019
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Gulali56
Jakarta, Jakarta Raya, Indonesia278 contributions
May 2019 • Solo
I went for Temptation tour due to the timing and meeting point at Inverness bus station a walking distance from Inverness railway station.
The tour itself was pretty good. Easy to find the meeting point, it's just 500m from the railway station.
The tour itself was pretty organized.I just showed the email to exchange the ticket at staff at Jacobite counter inside the bus station office We aboard the bus at 2pm sharp and bus went to the dock while the bus driver explaining the city along the ride.
The cruise itself was smooth sailing, not too long and not too short. It's include 50mins visit to Urquhart (ruined) castle.
The bus tour back to bus station at 5.10 and just in time to catch the 5.27 train to Edinburgh.
The tour itself was pretty good. Easy to find the meeting point, it's just 500m from the railway station.
The tour itself was pretty organized.I just showed the email to exchange the ticket at staff at Jacobite counter inside the bus station office We aboard the bus at 2pm sharp and bus went to the dock while the bus driver explaining the city along the ride.
The cruise itself was smooth sailing, not too long and not too short. It's include 50mins visit to Urquhart (ruined) castle.
The bus tour back to bus station at 5.10 and just in time to catch the 5.27 train to Edinburgh.
Written June 10, 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for taking the time to leave us your wonderful 5 star review.
We are delighted to hear you enjoyed your tour with Loch Ness by Jacobite.
Thank you for sailing with Loch Ness by Jacobite, we hope to welcome you back again in the future.
Written June 11, 2019
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Hola, Por que en el mes de octubre y noviembre no hay disponibilidad en ningun dia para comprar para esta atraccion?
Pauline P
1 contribution
Bonjour, quel est le prix de la visite du château (puisque apparemment la visite n'est pas comprise dans le prix)?
Merci d'avance !
Roman
Buenos Aires, Argentina24 contributions
You can find update tickets price in its official site. But today prices are 12 pounds for adults and 7.20 pounds for children (under 5 goes free) You can get there by road (lovely views if you have time to stop and enjoy them if you were driving) but the cruise across the ness lake is lovely (on a sunny and calm day its amazing) Tours by Jacobite are quite good!
DMW2013_81
Bala, UK185 contributions
Can my Father take his mobility scooter on board? thank you
DMW2013_81
Bala, UK185 contributions
Hello, can my Father take his mobility scooter onto the boat? thank you
Earl9371
Louisville, KY88 contributions
It may be difficult. You have to park across the street from the boat and the navigate down a narrow path underneath a road to get to the dock. Once there, I don't think the scooter would work well at the castle as it's really rocky.
241marcia
Auckland Central, New Zealand1 contribution
hi I am staying in Inverness and not sure how I can get to where the cruise starts from. only there for 3 days and want to do the 2 hour one to the castle and back. wont be hiring a car, the bus looks like it takes 2 hrs going the long way
Azahara A
Genoa, Italy40 contributions
Hi, I got a bus from Inverness town, by the highroad past the River, it only takes about 20 minutes. Ask around, people there are lovely and they will be more than happy to help you. Is the bus stop to your left past the Loch River.