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A white house nestled in trees on the edge of a loch.

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Northern End & Inverness

The northern stretch of the Caledonian Canal flows from Loch Ness directly into the Highland capital.

Photo: tour listing on Viator

This section connects the inland lochs to the sea at the Beauly Firth. The full canal spans 60 miles (96.5 km) from coast to coast, ending here in Inverness.

Visitors often start at Dochgarroch Lock before heading into the city. You can walk the towpaths for free or watch boats complete their multi-day transits.

A passenger ferry navigating a waterway bordered by trees and a house.
Photo: tour listing on Viator
01

Dochgarroch Lock

1-2 hoursCruise departures

This hub sits at the head of Loch Dochfour, leading directly into Loch Ness. It is a popular location for waterside walks. You can use this lock as a starting point for boat cruises down the loch.

People relaxing on the shore of a loch with rolling hills in the background.
Photo: tour listing on Viator
02

Seaport Marina - Inverness

1 hourLess than 1 mile to center

This busy marina sits less than one mile from the Inverness City Centre. Yachts arrive here from the sea before starting their cross-country transit. Stop by to watch crews prepare their vessels for the journey.

A large stone castle with multiple turrets situated on a green lawn.
Photo: tour listing on Viator
03

Clachnaharry Sea Lock

45 minutesRail bridge crossing

This is the final lock on the eastern side. Here, the canal connects with the sea at the Beauly Firth. Watch for the operational rail bridge crossing the waterway at this point.

Cruise from Dochgarroch

A passenger ferry cruising on a calm loch under a partly cloudy sky.
Loch Ness and Caledonian Canal 2-Hour Cruise from Dochgarroch2 h 4.8 (1,416)from $46
2-hour canal cruisefrom $46 on Viator
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