The 9-mile Crinan Canal connects Ardrishaig (Loch Fyne) to Crinan (Sound of Jura), saving sailors the arduous 100-mile voyage around the Mull of Kintyre.
The passage takes a minimum of 6 hours, though it is more usual and less stressfull if time permits to allow a minimum of two days for the transit, which features 15 locks and 7 bridges. The sea locks operated by staff and inland locks typically self-operated or staff-assisted.
Booking & Planning:
- Licensing: You must purchase a Transit Licence, which starts at £16.75 per metre for a single journey. Pre-booking is recommended via the Scottish Canals Online Booking portal.
- Draft & Air Draft: The maximum permitted draft is 2.3m to 2.5m. If your draft exceeds 2.2m, you must contact the lock keepers 48 hours before your transit. The height limit for power lines crossing the canal is 30 metres.
- Speed Limits: A strict 4-knot speed limit is enforced to protect the canal banks from excessive wash.
Lock & Bridge Navigation
- Assistance vs. Self-Service: The sea locks (Ardrishaig and Crinan) and Lock 14 are mechanized and operated for you by canal staff. Inland locks require your crew to operate the sluices and gates, though canal staff assist at flight locks
- Lock Operation Rules: Unless otherwise instructed, you should generally close gates behind you, leave locks full, and close sluice gates.
- Lines: Ensure you have at least two 15m lines with a loop at one end and plenty of fenders on both sides to protect your hull.
Local Facilities & Points of Interest
- Facilities: There are toilets, showers, and water points located at both Ardrishaig and Crinan basins, with limited pontoons along the route.
- Highlights: While traveling, you’ll pass the Dunardry Rolling Bridge (the only hand-operated rolling bridge in the UK), the Moine Mhor National Nature Reserve, and ancient Atlantic oakwoods.For more specific guidance on navigating the canal safely, check out the full Crinan Canal Skipper’s Guide provided by Scottish Canals.