Navigating the Crinan Canal. A talk by Andrew Davidson
Andrew presented details of his trip through the Crinan Canal in Scotland. This was a very well attended meeting both at the RNA and with several members joining in via Zoom.
Here is a quick summary of the Talk.
Oban to Rhu
The trip was from OBAN to RHU at the end of May 2025.
The trip was organised by PREMIER SAILING who operated in support of Macmillan Cancer. The group sailed in 3 off Sigma 38s.
The OBAN to RHU leg was one of 8/9 legs that travelled around the UK.
Note PREMIER SAILING no longer operate.
Opened in 1801, 9 miles long used by 2,000+ boats per year.
15 locks and 7 swing bridges, 10 metres above sea level, height limit = 30 metres, maximum draught 2.5metres. It also has one small marina near the highest point.
Cost £127,00 in 1801 equivalent to over £12,000,000 in todays money, (Which seems good value for money).
Current fee for using thge canal for a 40ft yacht is ~ £200 one way £350 return.
Click here for link to Crinan Canal Website
Trip from Oban to Crinan
Started at the Corryvreckan pub in OBAN. Weather not the best for the leg.
Corryvreckan
Corryvreckan is a famous, powerful whirlpool in the narrow strait (the Gulf of Corryvreckan) between the Scottish islands of Jura and Scarba, known as the world’s third largest. Caused by strong tides squeezing through the channel, encountering an underwater pinnacle and deep hole, it creates powerful standing waves and turbulent waters that are dangerous but also a major tourist attraction, accessible by boat tours or hike
Approaching entrance to the Crinan Canal.
Entry to the Canal is via a lock system so it was necerssary to wait for the entry time.
Inside Crinan Basin
Travelling through the Crinan Canal.
After leaving the Crinan Canal the group continued onto Rhu. But the story of that trip will maybe be told at a later meeting.