Loch Ness Cruise, Outlander & Urquhart Castle Tour From Inverness

Set out on a captivating journey through the Scottish Highlands with a Loch Ness Cruise, Outlander, and Urquhart Castle Tour from Inverness. Explore the mystical Loch Ness, set your eyes on the impressive ruins of Urquhart Castle, and discover key filming locations from the popular Outlander series. This tour blends history, culture, and stunning landscapes, offering a well-rounded experience for visitors seeking to enjoy the enchanting wonders of the region.

Key Points

• A 1-hour cruise across Loch Ness with the opportunity to spot the elusive Loch Ness Monster and see the impressive ruins of Urquhart Castle.
• Guided tour of the 13th-century Urquhart Castle, exploring its rich history and captivating views of Loch Ness.
• Visits to locations featured in the Outlander series, including the charming village of Beauly and the Culloden Battlefield.
• Tasting and purchasing traditional Highland whisky at a local distillery in Beauly, providing a culture.
• Transportation by air-conditioned vehicles departing from Inverness, with accessibility accommodations and a weather policy.

Exploring Loch Ness

One of the main highlights of the Loch Ness Cruise and Tour is the opportunity to explore the legendary Loch Ness.

Passengers embark on a 1-hour cruise that takes them across the deep, dark waters of the loch, offering stunning views of the surrounding highlands. The cruise provides a chance to spot the elusive Loch Ness Monster, though sightings are rare.

Visitors can also admire the impressive ruins of Urquhart Castle, which overlook the loch and date back to the 13th century.

The cruise and castle visit offer a glimpse into the captivating history and natural beauty of this iconic Scottish landmark.

Discovering Urquhart Castle

As visitors embark on the Loch Ness Cruise and Tour, they’re treated to a captivating glimpse of Urquhart Castle’s impressive ruins.

The castle, dating back to the 13th century, boasts a rich history that’s brought to life through the tour.

Highlights include:

• Exploring the castle’s remnants, including the iconic Grant Tower
• Learning about its strategic role in the region’s tumultuous past
• Admiring the stunning views of Loch Ness from the castle’s elevated position

With the guided tour providing valuable historical context, travelers gain a deeper appreciation for this iconic Scottish landmark and its enduring significance.

Taking in Outlander Locations

The Loch Ness Cruise and Tour also takes visitors on a captivating journey through the locations featured in the hit Outlander series.

Guests explore the charming village of Beauly, where scenes from the show were filmed. They’ll have the opportunity to browse Highland whisky shops and enjoy the rich cultural heritage.

The tour also includes a stop at the Culloden Battlefield, the site of a pivotal Jacobite uprising.

Travelers can explore the interactive exhibition and gain a deeper understanding of the events that shaped Scottish history and inspired the Outlander narrative.

Visiting Beauly and Whisky Tasting

After visiting the historic Urquhart Castle, the tour takes guests to the charming village of Beauly.

This quaint town offers a glimpse into Outlander filming locations and a chance to sample local Highland whisky.

Highlights include:

• Exploring Beauly Priory, a 13th-century monastic site that appeared in the Outlander series
• Visiting a traditional Highland whisky distillery for a sampling and purchase
• Browsing local shops and cafes, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere of this picturesque Scottish village

This stop provides a perfect balance of history, culture, and local flavor, rounding out the immersive Loch Ness experience.

Experiencing Culloden Battlefield

From the tranquil hills of Beauly, the tour heads to the historic Culloden Battlefield.

Here, visitors can peruse the interactive exhibition for an immersive experience of the 1746 battle. They’ll learn about the Jacobite rebellion and the tragic events that unfolded on this hallowed ground.

Audio guides provide deeper insights, while the scenic viewpoints offer contemplative moments to reflect on the site’s significance.

Though the battle was a defeat for the Jacobites, the Culloden Battlefield stands as a poignant reminder of Scotland’s turbulent past and the resilience of its people.

Transportation and Accessibility

Air-conditioned vehicles depart from 15 Union St in Inverness for this tour.

Travelers should arrive 15 minutes early for check-in.

While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, collapsible wheelchairs can be accommodated with assistance.

Public transportation options are available near the tour’s departure point.

• Not wheelchair accessible, but collapsible wheelchairs can be accommodated with assistance
• Depart from 15 Union St, Inverness, 15 minutes before departure for check-in
• Near public transportation options

Additional Tour Details

Although food and drink aren’t included in the tour price, travelers can purchase a Highland whisky experience during the stop in Beauly.

Gratuities for the guide are also not covered.

The tour operator has a weather policy in place, as the Loch Ness boat cruise may be canceled due to extreme conditions. In such cases, refunds will be provided for purchased tickets.

Travelers are advised to bring their own headsets if they wish to use an audio guide during the tour.

Traveler Experiences and Recommendations

Travelers who’ve experienced the Loch Ness Cruise, Outlander & Urquhart Castle Tour have largely praised the expertise and humor of the guides, which they say enhanced the overall experience.

The tour’s memorable highlights include:

• Scenic views of the breathtaking Loch Ness and surrounding landscapes
• Engaging historical insights into the region’s rich cultural heritage
• Immersive activities like the Loch Ness cruise and exploring Outlander filming locations

While some travelers have suggested more educational content on specific sites, the tour maintains a high recommendation rate, making it a suitable choice for history and culture enthusiasts.

Ask Away

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

According to the tour overview, food and drink are not included in the tour price. However, travelers are free to bring their own snacks and beverages to enjoy during the tour.

Is There Any Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour does not offer an option to extend the duration. It’s scheduled for approximately 9 hours, from 8:30 am to 5:30 pm. Extending the tour time would need to be arranged separately with the tour operator.

Can I Visit Any Additional Sites Not Mentioned in the Itinerary?

The tour’s itinerary is set, so there aren’t any additional sites included. However, guests can explore Inverness further on their own before or after the tour to see other attractions not covered during the scheduled activities.

What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy for the Tour?

The tour’s weather policy states that the boat cruise may be canceled due to extreme weather, and refunds will be provided for purchased tickets. Travelers are advised to check the weather forecast before their trip.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?

The tour does not offer any discounts for seniors or students. Prices are fixed at $76.01 per person, with no special rates available. However, the tour does provide a 15% discount from the original price of $84.46.

Final Words

The Loch Ness Cruise, Outlander & Urquhart Castle Tour from Inverness offers a captivating blend of history, culture, and stunning landscapes. Visitors can enjoy a scenic cruise, explore the impressive Urquhart Castle, discover Outlander filming locations, and indulge in a whisky tasting, making it an unforgettable experience. The tour is accessible and well-reviewed, catering to both history enthusiasts and those seeking a unique adventure.