Invergordon Cruise Excursion PRIVATE Tour

This experience made our article of You’ll Love These 7 Boat Tours & Cruises In Invergordon.

Invergordon Cruise Excursion PRIVATE Tour — A Personal Scottish Adventure

If you’re arriving in Invergordon and craving a day that blends history, nature, and authentic Scottish flavor, this private tour offers a flexible way to explore some of the Highlands’ most intriguing spots. Priced at approximately $880.40 per group (up to 7 people), it promises a personalized experience tailored to your interests, lasting around 6 to 8 hours. The tour is operated by Go Highlands and features private transportation with WiFi, air-conditioning, and bottled water, making your journey comfortable and convenient.

What we love about this experience is how it balances well-known sights with lesser-trodden gems. The ability to customize your itinerary means you can focus on historical sites like Clava Cairns or enjoy scenic nature walks like Reelig Glen—perfect for those who want to avoid crowds and get a more genuine taste of the Highlands. Plus, the inclusion of a whisky distillery visit and Loch Ness cruise adds a flavor of Scotland’s world-famous beverages and legendary landscapes.

One thing to consider is that some attractions, like the Culloden Battlefield and Singleton Distillery, require additional fees—about £13 and £20 per person, respectively. Planning ahead helps ensure you’re comfortable with extra costs. This tour is ideally suited for travelers who enjoy customized experiences, are interested in history and scenery, and appreciate a private, guided exploration rather than a large group tour.

This private tour is perfect if you’re seeking a flexible day out that combines history, nature, and Scottish culture, especially if you value a guide’s insight and want to avoid the hustle of large tour groups. It suits those who like a mix of structured sightseeing and free time to wander or shop in Inverness.

Key Points

• Flexibility & Customization: Tailor your itinerary to focus on your interests.
• Private Transportation: Comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle with WiFi.
• Historic & Scenic Highlights: From ancient sites to Loch Ness views.
• Extra Costs: Expect additional fees for some attractions.
• Guided Experience: Insightful guides bring history and local stories to life.
• Ideal for Small Groups: Up to 7 travelers, perfect for intimate exploration.

A Detailed Look at Your Highland Day

When we first consider a tour that packs so much into a single day, the key is in the details. This private experience from Invergordon offers a flexible schedule that, with careful planning, can suit a variety of interests. The starting point at 9:00 am, right at the cruise port, makes it easy to fit into your schedule without worry, and being a private tour means your group gets undivided attention.

The First Stop: Clava Cairns

Your day begins with a visit to Clava Cairns, a prehistoric burial site lined with standing stones that date back thousands of years. These ancient structures are both striking and evocative, offering a glimpse into Scotland’s distant past. The site is free to enter, and spending about 30 minutes here is enough to take in the stones and ponder their mysteries. We loved the way this site feels timeless; it’s a quiet, contemplative start that sets a reflective tone for the day.

The Battle of Culloden: A Stirring Visit

Next, you might head to Culloden Battlefield, where your guide can provide rich insights, especially if they have military experience—something that many reviews highlighted as a real advantage. The visitor centre features interactive exhibits, making this a memorable stop that brings Scotland’s history vividly to life. Although admission isn’t included (roughly £13 per person), many find the experience well worth it. Here, the guides’ storytelling and interpretive displays help you grasp the significance of this pivotal 18th-century conflict.

Leisurely Lunch at An Talla

Midday, you’ll stop at An Talla Restaurant, located at Dochgarroch Lock. This is more than just a meal—it’s an opportunity to relax, enjoy Highland Cows up close, and take a stroll along the Caledonian Canal. We appreciated this stop because it offers a refreshing break with scenic views and a chance to stretch your legs. The setting feels very local and authentic, with the chance to sample some Scottish hospitality.

Whisky & Spirit Tastings — The Singleton & Great Glen

For those who enjoy a good dram, a visit to The Singleton Distillery offers a visual feast and a taste of Scotland’s whisky craftsmanship. Although the tour isn’t included, many travelers find the experience, which costs around £20, to be a highlight—especially if they’re fans of whisky or want a deeper understanding of Scotch production.

Later, you might enjoy a stop at Great Glen Distillery, the newest and smallest craft distillery in Scotland. Their earthy gin and the story of harnessing the wild landscape make for a memorable tasting experience. These distilleries are a delightful way to connect with Scotland’s spirits and add a flavorful layer to your day.

Inverness: Gateway to the Highlands

You’ll have free time in Inverness, regarded as the “Gateway to the Highlands.” Here, you can explore the castle, stroll along the River Ness, or browse the Victorian Market. With about 30 minutes here, it’s a brief but valuable window to soak in the town’s lively atmosphere. Many reviews praise guides for their local knowledge, enhancing the experience and helping travelers find hidden gems in the city.

Nature & Forest Walk: Reelig Glen

Moving into the serene woods of Reelig Glen, you’ll enjoy a 45-minute walk through a steep-sided gorge, with towering Douglas Fir trees over 100 years old—some reaching over 200 feet tall. The sight of these giants is awe-inspiring and offers a peaceful contrast to the historical sites. The old trees make for fantastic photo opportunities and give a real sense of the natural grandeur of the Highlands.

Loch Ness & Urquhart Castle: The Big Finish

To cap the day, you’ll cruise on Loch Ness, giving you a chance to spot Nessie, and enjoy the stunning scenery, castles, and monuments that line the shores. The cruise lasts about an hour and is a popular highlight, especially for the chance to see the legendary monster or simply marvel at the landscape.

Afterward, Urquhart Castle awaits—a commanding ruin on the lake’s edge with over a thousand years of history. Many travelers find the views from the castle striking, and it’s a perfect spot for photos or a moment of reflection on Scotland’s turbulent past.

Wrapping Up with a Local Spirit

Finally, your day ends at Reelig Glen or the distillery again, depending on your pace, with an optional visit to The Great Glen Distillery for a final taste of Scottish gin. This small, family-run operation emphasizes the natural environment, creating spirits that are both earthy and smooth.

Why This Tour Works for You

We found that the personalized nature of this private tour makes it stand out. You’ll enjoy the insightful guides, who often bring a wealth of knowledge—whether about the military history at Culloden or the local flora at Reelig Glen. The ability to customize your itinerary means you can spend more or less time at certain sites, which is excellent for travelers with particular interests.

The scenic stops, combined with authentic local food, help you feel like a genuine Highland visitor—not just a tourist on a bus. The small group size or private arrangement assures a more relaxed and intimate experience, perfect for families, couples, or small groups of friends.

However, be prepared for extra costs at certain attractions—like the Culloden Battlefield (£13) or distillery tours (~£20)—which are not included in the base price. Planning your budget accordingly will enhance your experience.

This tour offers a balanced mix of history, nature, and local flavor—ideal if you like flexibility, personal attention, and a genuine taste of the Highlands.

Final Verdict: Who Is This Tour For?

This private Highland tour is best for small groups or families who want a flexible, immersive experience without the bulk of large bus tours. History buffs will appreciate the detailed insights, especially at Culloden, and nature lovers will revel in the walks and scenic views. Whisky enthusiasts will enjoy the distillery visits, and everyone will benefit from the professional, friendly guidance.

It’s perfect if you want to avoid crowds and prefer to make spontaneous stops or linger longer at places that catch your interest. The tailored approach ensures your day is crafted around what you love, making it a worthwhile investment for those seeking a personalized Highland adventure.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate. The tour is designed to be flexible, and while some stops involve walking or standing, it’s generally accessible for most.

How long does the tour last?
The total duration is around 6 to 8 hours, depending on your chosen stops and pace.

Are entrance fees included?
No, some attractions like Culloden Battlefield and the distilleries have additional costs—about £13 and £20 per person, respectively. These are paid separately.

Can the itinerary be customized?
Absolutely. The tour operators are happy to discuss and help craft an itinerary that suits your interests, whether you want more history, nature, or whisky tasting.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tour uses an air-conditioned vehicle with WiFi, ensuring a comfortable ride between sites.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, a jacket for outdoor walks, and some cash or cards for optional entry fees or souvenirs.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The tour requires good weather for optimal experience. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

In essence, this private Invergordon tour offers a rich, flexible day filled with history, scenic beauty, and Scottish hospitality. It’s a fantastic way to see the Highlands while enjoying the comfort and intimacy of a private guide—well worth considering if you value personalized experiences and authentic connections.