Questions We Get Asked Most Often on Board a Loch Ness Cruises

After welcoming thousands of visitors on board each year, there are a few questions we can almost guarantee we'll hear on every cruise.

Some are practical, some are about planning a visit to Loch Ness, and some are exactly what you'd expect when you're cruising across the world's most famous loch.

Here are some of the questions our crew get asked most often.

Have you seen Nessie?

Without a doubt, this is the question we're asked more than any other.

Whether visitors are young or simply young at heart, everyone wants to know if we've ever spotted the Loch Ness Monster.

The truth is that Nessie sightings are still reported, and our crew always enjoy sharing the latest stories and local legends with guests. While we can't guarantee a sighting during your cruise, keeping an eye on the water is all part of the fun.

After all, you never know what might be lurking beneath the surface...
 

Can I visit Urquhart Castle?

Absolutely.

One of the best ways to visit Urquhart Castle is on our Freedom Cruise, which includes entry to the castle as part of your ticket.

The Sensation and Temptation tours also include a visit Urquhart Castle in their itineraries.

Do you really cruise Loch Ness all year round?

We do.

Loch Ness is beautiful in every season.

Many visitors are surprised to learn that our cruises operate throughout the year, but our heated indoor cabins make it easy to stay comfortable whatever the weather is doing outside.

In fact, winter can be one of the most peaceful and atmospheric times to experience the loch.

Do you serve food on board?

Yes, we do.

We have a selection of light snacks and refreshments during your cruise.

If you're joining one of our Contemplation or Enchantment cruises, you can also pre-order a packed lunch when booking (it will be one of the options as you move through your online booking).

Guests departing from Dochgarroch are also perfectly placed to visit An Talla before or after their cruise, where you'll find a menu packed with freshly prepared breakfasts, lunches, cakes and coffee.

Do you have toilets on board?

Yes.

All of our vessels are equipped with toilet facilities.

How do I get into the cabin?

This one usually gets a laugh.

If you're wondering how to access the indoor cabin or reach the upper deck, the answer is simple — just use the stairs.

Our crew are always happy to point you in the right direction if you're unsure.

Is there seating inside and outside?

Yes.

All of our vessels offer comfortable indoor seating as well as outdoor viewing areas, giving you the flexibility to enjoy the scenery however you prefer.

How deep is Loch Ness?

Loch Ness reaches depths of around 230 metres (755 feet) at its deepest point.

That's deep enough to hold more freshwater than all the lakes in England and Wales combined, which often surprises visitors.

Why is Loch Ness so dark?

The water in Loch Ness isn't actually dirty.

Its famous dark appearance comes from peat washed down from the surrounding hills and rivers.

Combined with the loch's depth, this creates the dark waters that make Loch Ness look so mysterious.

What's the best time of year to visit Loch Ness?

The honest answer is that every season offers something different.

Spring brings fresh colours and wildlife, summer offers long daylight hours, autumn creates spectacular scenery around the loch, and winter provides a quieter and more peaceful experience.

There really isn't a bad time to visit.

How big is Loch Ness?

Loch Ness is the second-largest loch in Scotland by surface area, stretching for around 23 miles (37 kilometres) from Inverness to Fort Augustus.

It's part of the Great Glen, a natural fault line that cuts across the Highlands from coast to coast. When you're out on the water, it's easy to see why Loch Ness captures people's imagination – it seems to stretch on forever.

How deep is Loch Ness?

Loch Ness reaches depths of around 230 metres (755 feet) at its deepest point.

That's deep enough to hold more freshwater than all the lakes in England and Wales combined. The sheer volume of water is one of the reasons Loch Ness has become so famous around the world.

Is Loch Ness freshwater or saltwater?

Loch Ness is a freshwater loch.

The loch is fed by a number of rivers and streams and forms part of the Caledonian Canal, which links Scotland's east and west coasts. Although boats can travel all the way from the North Sea to the Atlantic Ocean using the canal system, the water in Loch Ness itself is fresh.

What wildlife can you see around Loch Ness?

While Nessie tends to steal the headlines, there is plenty of other wildlife to spot around Loch Ness.

Depending on the season, you could see ospreys fishing overhead, herons along the shoreline, roe and red deer on the surrounding hillsides and a variety of ducks and other water birds. 

Our crew are always keeping an eye out and are happy to point out any wildlife sightings during your cruise.

Have another question?

Our crew are always happy to help.

Whether you're curious about Nessie, local history, wildlife, cruise routes or simply where to get the best photograph, don't be afraid to ask. We love sharing our knowledge of Loch Ness and helping visitors make the most of their time on the water.