CANAL BOATS

The Caledonian Canal is quite separate from the Port of Inverness. The canal sealock entrance is situated approximately one mile west of the port entrance.

The canal is operated by British Waterways with its main office at Seaport Marina, Muirtown Lock, Inverness (tel 01463 233140).

Vessels transiting to/from the sealock must not impede the passage of commercial shipping for port and should, if possible, keep a VHF watch on Channels 12 and 16.

Vessels requiring a pilot for the area Meikle Mee to sealock can request one from Inverness Harbour Office, 24 hours in advance. Pilotage is to/from sealock only, and no pilotage is given inland of sealock. Vessels awaiting sealock may anchor two cables NNW of entrance, or lie alongside lead wall if previously arranged with sealock official.

Sealock: VHF Channel 74
Tel: 01463 713896
Operating hours: 0830–17.30 Spring/Autumn; 0800–1800 Summer; 0900–1600 Winter (Monday–Friday only). Check directly with canal prior to arrival
Neap tides – no restriction
Spring tides – dependent on tide, lock may be closed for up to two hours each side of Low Water