Scotland’s rugged coastlines, shimmering lochs, and soaring mountains make it one of Europe’s top places for boat trips. Whether you’re after a relaxing cruise through historic lochs, a customized day tour of Glasgow, or a highland adventure spotting eagles and filming locations, Scotland offers a variety of options. We especially love the Loch Lomond and The Trossachs cruise for its combination of stunning scenery and historic sites, and the Glenfinnan cruise for its cinematic flair and wild Highland landscapes. Each of these experiences offers a different way to see Scotland’s natural beauty—on water, from shore, or both.
If you’re trying to decide which tour fits your interests and schedule, keep reading. Below, you’ll find a detailed overview of the top boat tours in Scotland, highlighting what makes each unique, along with practical tips to choose the right one for your trip.
1. Day Trip from Greenock Cruise Port- Lochs and Castle Tour
This tour makes a perfect seven-hour escape from the cruise port, offering a mix of spectacular scenery and Scottish history. It’s ideal if you want a small-group or family experience with all entry fees included, so you won’t have to worry about extra costs. The tour’s guiding principle is relaxed, flexible sightseeing, led by an experienced driver/guide who ensures you get the most out of your day.
The itinerary includes a stop at Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park, where you can admire the picturesque village of Luss and its slate cottages. Next, you’ll visit Rest and be Thankful, a mountain pass offering breathtaking views of the valley below—perfect for photographers and lovers of mountain scenery. Finally, the highlight is Inveraray Castle, a fairytale fortress with beautiful gardens and an interior that’s just as fascinating. Alternatively, visitors can explore Inveraray Jail and courthouse, which offers a vivid look into Scotland’s penal history.
With a 5-star rating from 8 reviews, this tour’s combination of comfortable transportation, expert commentary, and scenic stops makes it a top choice. One traveler remarked, “A comfortable pleasant trip with a friendly and knowledgeable local guide,” making it clear this is a relaxing way to see some of Scotland’s best sights without rushing.
Bottom Line: This tour suits travelers who want a well-organized, scenic day that covers a variety of landscape and historic highlights with no entry fees or hidden costs.
2. Glasgow Shore Excursions (Princess & Norwegian Cruise Ships)
For those arriving in Glasgow with limited time, a private and fully customizable shore excursion offers the best way to see the city’s highlights. Designed for a group of up to 7 people, this tour provides personal attention, flexible scheduling, and Wi-Fi connectivity in your private vehicle. It’s perfect if you want to tailor your experience to your specific interests, whether that’s the city’s historic sites or modern attractions.
The itinerary can include visits to Glasgow Cathedral, the People’s Palace and Winter Gardens, or the St. Mungo Museum of Religious Life and Art—the choice is yours. If you’re a culture lover, exploring the Merchant City or the lively West End can be part of the plan. The tour is led by a knowledgeable guide who can adapt the route based on your preferences, making sure you see what matters most to you.
Rated 5/5 from 2 reviews, this is a high-value option for travelers wanting a luxury, private experience. One reviewer noted, “Enjoyed all of Paul’s knowledge, information, and humor,” highlighting the personalized, engaging nature of this tour.
Bottom Line: This private tour is ideal if you want to maximize your limited time in Glasgow with a customized visit that skips the tourist traps in favor of what interests you most.
3. Glenfinnan: Glenaladale cruise, see the train and eagles 2hr
This two-hour Highland adventure takes you through some of Scotland’s most iconic scenery, with the added thrill of spotting Golden eagles soaring overhead. The cruise departs from the Glenfinnan area, famous for the Glenfinnan Viaduct—the bridge made famous by the Harry Potter films—and offers an immersive way to explore the wild, open landscape of the Scottish Highlands.
On this cruise, you’ll cruise past historic landmarks and enjoy the chance to see the Glenfinnan Steam Train, which adds a nostalgic touch for film buffs. The boat ride also offers a good chance to observe native wildlife, including eagles and other birdlife, in their natural habitat. The tour provides insights into the area’s history of nearly changing the monarchy, which adds depth to this scenic adventure.
Rated 4.6/5 based on reviews, this tour appeals to travelers seeking a short, engaging Highland experience. Reviewers mention the spectacular views and wildlife sightings, with one noting it’s a “fantastic way to experience the Highland wilderness and see the famous train from a different perspective.”
Bottom Line: This cruise is perfect for those short on time but eager to combine Highland scenery, wildlife, and film history, especially if you’re a fan of Harry Potter or Highlander movies.
How to Choose the Right Scottish Boat Tour
Picking a boat tour in Scotland depends largely on your interests, schedule, and budget. For a full scenic day, the Lochs and Castles trip from Greenock offers a blend of natural beauty and historic sites. If you prefer a luxury, personalized experience, the Glasgow private shore excursion allows you to craft your own itinerary. Short on time but eager for Highland adventure? The Glenfinnan cruise is just right.
Consider your budget—the Lochs and Castle tour is reasonably priced at around $200 per person, while the private Glasgow experience is more costly but offers bespoke service. Think about your physical activity level; the Loch trip involves some walking at stops, but overall, it’s quite relaxed. The Highland cruise is shorter and suitable for those who want a quick dose of Highland scenery and film history.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak summer months, to secure your preferred time and ensure availability. All tours are designed to make the most of your Scottish water-based adventures, whether you’re seeking a scenic day out, a tailored city tour, or a Highland wildlife encounter.
Final Thoughts
Scotland offers a remarkable variety of boat tours and cruises that showcase its rugged coastlines, glittering lochs, and historic landmarks. For a balanced day of scenic beauty and history, the Loch Lomond and The Trossachs trip stands out. If you want a personalized city experience, the Glasgow shore excursions are hard to beat. And for a quick Highland adventure, the Glenfinnan cruise offers wild scenery and film fame in just two hours.
Each of these options caters to different travelers—whether you’re after a relaxing scenic journey, a private city tour, or a Highland wildlife adventure. Booking early is always wise, especially in peak season, to ensure you don’t miss out on these unforgettable Scottish water experiences. Whatever your choice, you’ll find that Scotland’s waters offer a uniquely authentic way to see this remarkable country.