Loch Ness Cruise, Outlander & Urquhart Castle Tour From Inverness

Set out on a captivating tour that immerses you in the rich history and stunning landscapes of the Scottish Highlands. Cruise along the legendary Loch Ness, explore the ruins of the 13th-century Urquhart Castle, and discover iconic Outlander filming locations. With knowledgeable local guides and the opportunity to savor Highland whisky, this highly-rated experience promises lasting memories of Scotland’s enchanting heritage. Uncover the secrets that await as you…

Key Points

• Comprehensive 1-hour Loch Ness cruise and visits to 13th-century Urquhart Castle and Outlander filming locations from Inverness.
• Air-conditioned transportation, local English-speaking guide, and admission to Urquhart Castle included in the tour package.
• Opportunity to purchase Highland whisky and visit the Culloden Battlefield Exhibition (additional cost).
• Tour caters to a maximum of 16 travelers, not wheelchair accessible, and requires a minimum age of 5 years.
• High traveler satisfaction with 99% recommendation rate and favourable reviews for knowledgeable and friendly guides.

Tour Overview and Highlights

The Loch Ness Cruise Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the scenic Loch Ness region.

Travelers can enjoy a 1-hour cruise on the legendary Loch Ness and visit the impressive 13th-century Urquhart Castle ruins.

The tour also includes stops at Beauly and Outlander filming locations, as well as an opportunity to purchase Highland whisky.

Boasting a 99% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, this tour provides a hassle-free way to discover the Highlands without the need for driving.

With an English-speaking local guide, guests can expect informative commentary and stunning countryside views throughout the experience.

Inclusions and Logistics

An air-conditioned vehicle transports travelers to the tour’s meeting point at 15 Union St, Inverness IV1, UK.

Travelers must arrive 15 minutes before the 8:15 am departure. A local Scottish English-speaking guide leads the group.

The tour includes a 1-hour cruise on Loch Ness and admission to Urquhart Castle. Food and drink aren’t provided, but a Highland whisky experience is included.

The Culloden Battlefield Exhibition is available for purchase on-site. Gratuities aren’t included.

The Loch Ness cruise may be canceled due to extreme weather, with refunds available. Return times are approximate, allowing 3 hours for onward travel.

Tour Participation Guidelines

Maximum of 16 travelers are permitted on the tour.

The experience isn’t wheelchair accessible, and the minimum age is 5 years. Participants should arrive 15 minutes early for check-in.

Return times are approximate, so travelers should allow 3 hours for onward travel.

In case of extreme weather, the Loch Ness cruise may be canceled, with refunds available.

Visitors are advised to book transport to the departure point at 15 Union St, Inverness IV1, UK in advance.

Customer Reviews and Feedback

According to the available information, the Loch Ness Cruise Tour has earned a 4.9 rating based on 765 reviews, with the vast majority of customers (99%) recommending the experience.

Reviewers praised the knowledgeable and friendly guides, who provided informative historical commentary and engaging storytelling. The stunning views and highlights of the tour, including the 13th-century Urquhart Castle ruins, were also well-received.

However, some customers noted communication and timing issues, and recommended improvements to the whisky tour experience and additional Culloden education.

Pricing and Special Offers

The Loch Ness Cruise Tour is priced from $77.29 per person, originally $85.88, representing a savings of $8.59.

Customers have the flexibility to cancel their reservation up to 24 hours before the experience starts without incurring any fees.

Plus, travelers can opt for the "Reserve Now, Pay Later" option, allowing them to secure their spot on the tour and pay later.

These special offers and pricing make the Loch Ness Cruise Tour an attractive and accessible option for those seeking to explore the stunning Scottish highlands and the legendary Loch Ness.

Scenic Countryside Exploration

As travelers embark on the Loch Ness Cruise Tour, they can look forward to a seamless countryside exploration without the hassle of driving.

The tour provides:

1. A scenic journey through the picturesque Scottish Highlands, showcasing the region’s natural beauty.

2. The opportunity to visit Beauly, a charming village with a rich history and architectural gems.

3. Stops at Outlander filming locations, offering insights into the popular TV series and its cultural significance.

4. A chance to indulge in a Highland whisky experience, allowing participants to savor the local flavors.

Exploring Outlander Filming Locations

While exploring the Scottish Highlands, the Loch Ness Cruise Tour offers travelers the unique opportunity to visit several notable filming locations from the hit television series, Outlander.

The tour includes stops at Beauly, where scenes from the Lallybroch estate were filmed, and Urquhart Castle, a 13th-century ruin that served as the iconic Castle Leoch.

Guests can enjoy the world of Outlander, learning about the series’ historical references and seeing firsthand the stunning landscapes that inspired the show’s creators.

This tour provides a captivating blend of history, scenery, and cinematic exploration.

Discovering Urquhart Castle Ruins

A highlight of the Loch Ness Cruise Tour is the opportunity to explore the impressive ruins of Urquhart Castle.

Perched on the banks of Loch Ness, the castle’s remains date back to the 13th century.

Visitors can:

1. Climb to the top of the Grant Tower for panoramic views of the stunning loch.
2. Wander through the courtyard and imagine the castle’s turbulent history.
3. Discover exhibits that bring the site’s past to life, from the Wars of Scottish Independence to the Jacobite risings.
4. Snap photos of the picturesque setting, with the brooding waters of Loch Ness as a backdrop.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Food and drinks are not included in the tour. Travelers are welcome to bring their own refreshments, but the tour does not provide or allow consumption of any food or drinks during the excursion.

Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment or Clothing?

The tour doesn’t require any special equipment or clothing, but comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate attire are recommended. Bringing your own snacks and drinks is allowed, though they’re not included in the tour.

How Much Time Is Allotted for Free Exploration at Each Site?

The tour allots approximately 1 hour for independent exploration at Urquhart Castle. However, specific timings at each site may vary depending on the group’s progress and scheduling. Travelers should expect a balanced itinerary with opportunities to freely explore the key highlights.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour doesn’t offer an option to extend the duration, but travelers can explore sites at their own pace during free time. Requests for longer tours or customized experiences may be accommodated, though additional fees may apply.

Can I Request a Private or Customized Tour Experience?

Yes, travelers can request a private or customized tour experience. The tour operator offers flexible options for personalized itineraries and group sizes to accommodate specific needs and preferences. Additional fees may apply for these custom arrangements.

The Sum Up

This captivating tour of Loch Ness, Outlander filming locations, and Urquhart Castle immerses visitors in Scotland’s rich history and stunning landscapes. With a scenic cruise, knowledgeable guides, and opportunities to purchase Highland whisky, it’s an unforgettable adventure that promises lasting memories. Highly-rated by past participants, this tour offers an immersive and convenient way to explore the best of the Scottish Highlands.