Cruising Holidays with activities on the Caledonian Canal

Self-Catering

Man seated on ferry deck, looking at the water. Loch Ness, Scotland with mountains in background. Blue sky and sunny.

Both of our large and comfortable barges, Ros Crana and Fingal, are available for self-catering hire during the winter from November until March.


Located in a peaceful spot on the Caledonian Canal at the top of Neptune’s Staircase in Banavie, they are perfectly situated for getting out and exploring the area. Glencoe, Glenfinnan, Mallaig, the Nevis Range, and the Great Glen are all on the doorstep.  


The sites provide ample parking, and both of our barges are just a short walk from pubs, restaurants and shops. The centre of Fort William is only a few miles away.

Self-Catering

The barges themselves are warm and spacious with 6 double, ensuite cabins, a fully equipped kitchen, and ample lounge areas. They are ideal for groups of walkers, bikers, winter climbers, or anyone looking to explore the area in the quieter months.

If requested in advance, we can help with bike and canoe hire, local tour guides and qualified mountain guides.

Person riding a mountain bike on a gravel path, with other figures in the distance. Overcast sky, mountain in background.
Lake shore with people, mountains in the distance, blue sky with clouds.

What is available:

Our unique self-catering accommodation – Ros Crana on her winter berth at Banavie.

  • Six en-suite twin cabins with a small double below and a single bunk above. (En suite and cabin both have opening windows.)
  • Lounge and dining area offering plenty of space to sit and relax.
  • The galley/kitchen is well equipped to cater for groups of 12 and more.
  • Commercial cooker and dishwasher, microwave, fridge and freezer.
  • Drying room with dehumidifier.

Included in your booking:

  • Free parking beside the barge.
  • Exclusive use of the whole boat, (excluding crew who are in a separate accommodation area in the stern).
  • Bed linen, pillows, duvet and towels.
  • Gas for cooking.
  • Heating.
  • Electricity.
  • Wi Fi.
  • TV on request.
  • Cleaning materials, bin liners, etc, to keep the boat clean and tidy.


There is a No Smoking policy on board.


Sorry – pets are not permitted.


For further information on the layout of the barges click these links for Ros Crana or Fingal of Caledonia.

Two hikers pose overlooking a valley and lake under a blue sky with clouds.

Details for Winter 2025-26 / Spring 2026


The price for the whole barge for up to 6 guests is £250 a night with a minimum of 2 nights' stay (Christmas and New Year minimum 4 nights).


For 7 guests or more, up to a maximum of 14, there is an additional charge of £40.00 pp/pn.


Additional extras available include hybrid mountain bikes and canoe hire. You can also book our guide, whose enthusiasm for the history and the local area adds that little bit extra to the walk, bike or canoe trip.


For booking, or any queries about booking, you can email us anytime at [email protected], or phone us Monday – Friday 09:30 – 14:00 on +44 (0) 1397 772 167.


Testimonials

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WOW WOW WOW What a wonderful way to get away from the hustle and bustle of life and get back to nature. Far exceeded our expectations.
Dean Gump Paula Selstead 2023
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This vacation “cruise” met our needs activity levels perfectly. Dan likes to relax I like to be busy, active – we were able to do both. Still enjoy this experience together.”
Maura and Drew Pare Dean 2023
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Wasn’t sure what to expect, but all experiences were way beyond what we’d thought from looking at pictures and blurb
Stuart and Sheila Johnson 2023
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This holiday was outstanding throughout. The local knowledge the crew have was always given, in an entertaining and interesting way and this was just a smidge of the whole experience. Fun – entertaining – thrilling – exciting – tranquil – friendly.
Julie Watts 2022
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I had an excellent holiday. It exceeded my expectations and I would recommend a Caledonian Discovery holiday to my friends and family and anyone who enjoys gorgeous scenery, a mix of outdoor activities, delicious food and lots of laughter and fun.
Rebecca Parker 2022