Turn a Cruise into an Adventure with our Explorer Cruises
When people think of a Loch Lomond cruise, they often imagine sitting back, enjoying the scenery and returning to where they started. While you can certainly do that on many of our boat trips, our Explorer Cruises offer something a little different.
With an Explorer boat trip, you can travel by boat to some of Loch Lomond's most beautiful destinations, step ashore and spend time exploring before returning on a later sailing. It's a great way to turn a cruise into a full or half day out, and it's ideal for families looking for something different and active during the summer holidays.
Whether you're looking for a gentle walk, a family picnic, a beach day or a more adventurous hike, there should be an Explorer Cruise to suit everyone.
Arklet Falls
Inversnaid Explorer - Tarbet Pier to Inversnaid Pier (return)
Inversnaid is one of the more peaceful spots on Loch Lomond's eastern shore. Families can enjoy woodland walks and spot wildlife at the RSPB nature reserve and take in the beautiful scenery around the famous Arklet Falls.
The Inversnaid Hotel located at Inversnaid Pier is open over the summer months where you can enjoy lunch or a snack stop.
If you are bringing bikes over you can cycle over to Stronachlacher in the Trossachs.
Coming round the headland
Island Explorer - Luss Pier to Port Bawn Jetty (return)
Our Island Explorer Cruise gives you the chance to visit one of Loch Lomond's beautiful islands, Inchcailloch. It's a great option for families with little ones who want to enjoy a picnic, explore the shoreline and experience the excitement of stepping onto an island in the middle of Scotland's largest loch.
With short woodland walks around the island and a beautful beach to paddle from, it's a simple and fun family day out. (one of our favourites!)
Descent of Conic Hill
Balmaha Explorer - Luss Pier to Balmaha Pontoon (return)
Balmaha is one of the most popular villages on Loch Lomond and is home to Conic Hill, the National Park Visitor Centre, The Oak Tree Inn and the Balmaha Millenium Forest path.
Conic Hill is a fabulous starter hill for families, with a newly built path to the summit and spectacular views from the top its a 'must do' when in Balmaha. Enjoy a pint and lunch at the Oak Tree Inn after your walk before you head back to the pontoon to catch your return boat back to Luss.
Lomond Laird at Luss Pier
Luss Explorer - Balmaha Pier to Luss Pier
Luss is one of the prettiest villages in Scotland and a favourite with families. Take a wander through the village, visit the famous pier, enjoy an ice cream by the loch and spend time on the beach. There are lovely walks along the riverside which can take you on a circular path around the village.
For families there is the Luss Faerie Trail and for grown ups the newly opened Luss Distillery with its award winning Gin and Whisky.
With its beautiful setting and plenty of places to stop for refreshments, Luss makes for a great family day out.
Summiting Ben Lomond
Ben Lomond Explorer - Tarbet Pier to Rowardennan Hostel Jetty (Return- Saturdays only)
For those looking for a more active day out, our Ben Lomond Explorer Cruise provides access to Scotland's most southerly Munro ( a mountain over 3,000ft). Many visitors use the boat trip as the start of their walk up Ben Lomond, enjoying a scenic journey across the loch before setting off on their hike.
Ben Lomond is better suited to families with children who can walk 4-5 hours up hill. The cruise itself offers spectacular views for everyone on board.
There are very pretty little beaches at Rowardennan for those looking for a wee dip in the water before the boat trip back.
Beaches on the east side of Loch Lomond
West Highland Way Rambler (southbound)
Tarbet Pier to Inversnaid - return boat from Rowardennan - Friday and Saturday only
Perfect for walkers and outdoor enthusiasts, the West Highland Way Rambler connects passengers with a section of Scotland's most famous long-distance walking route, the West Highland Way.
You don't need to walk the entire trail to enjoy it! We drop you off at Inversnaid Pier and from there you walk south, 7.5 miles to Rowardennan. The rocky path takes you through ancient forest and down to the shoreline of Loch Lomond. You can take a picnic and enjoy lunch on the little beaches scattered along the banks of the loch.
A Different Way to Experience Loch Lomond
Our Explorer Cruises allow you to see more of Loch Lomond than you can from the roadside. They combine the enjoyment of a scenic boat trip with the freedom to get ashore and explore at your own pace.
If you're searching for family-friendly things to do during the summer holidays, an Explorer Cruise is a great way to create a day out that's as relaxing or adventurous as you want it to be. Pack a picnic, bring your camera and let Loch Lomond become part of your family's summer adventure.
*Prices start from £20.00 for an adult and £14.00 for a child (return)
