Boating in Scotland

Scotland is considered by many to home to one of Europe’s most beautiful cruising grounds and waterways. It is blesssed with a stunning scenery and a wide variety of sailing areas that offer something for people of all levels of experience.

Discover secret places with the local knowledge of an experienced skipper; charter a sailing yacht or motor yacht on a day trip or holiday and see delights such as the Firth of Clyde, Argyll’s attractive coast and lochs, the Highlands of Scotland, the charms of Orkney and Shetland and the excellent facilities (marinas and moorings) available on the East Coast. Scotland's sheltered seas and lochs are an ideal place for novices to learn to sail dinghies with numerous sailing schools. Most marinas have a slipway or can assist with launching, and there are numerous slips around the coast and on inland lochs where boats can also be launched.

If you prefer to explore more sheltered waters or want to traverse Scotland’s interior quickly, there are more delights to be found in the canals and inland lochs - as well as sailing, boating and paddle sports you can enjoy fishing, cycling, walking and other fun activities on Scotland's inland waters.

On The Water Guide to Scotland

Select one of the hotspots below to find out more about boating in your region...

Hotspots in this region...

The Argylshire Coast The Scotland's stunning western coast stretches from Appin to the Mull of Kintyre, from where the coast of Northern Ireland is visible on a clear day. More...		The Firth of Forth The Firth of Forth is teaming with wildlife and it has some of Scotland’s most beautiful harbours. More...
Moray Firth Coast This spectacular coastline stretches 750 km from Duncansby Head in the north to Fraserburgh in the east. More...		Orkney The large empty white-sand beaches, clear waters and big waves around Orkney make for excellent sail cruising, windsurfing and kite surfing.More...
Shetland Isles Although the most northerly islands in the UK, the Shetlands enjoy the benefits of the Gulf Stream with warm summers and sunshine up to 19 hours a day. More...		The Highlands Loch Ness, the Calendonian Canal, the Isle of Skye are just a few of the highlights -Wherever you visit in the Highlands, you’re sure to have a magical experience. More...
Loch Lomond Loch Lomond is the UK’s largest inland waterway and has over 30 islands, most of which are privately owned. More...		The Firth of Clyde The Firth of Clyde Lomond is the UK’s largest inland waterway and has over 30 islands, most of which are privately owned. More...