On May 20th, the world celebrates World Whisky Day, a day to raise a glass to this beloved spirit. And what better way to celebrate than with a whisky cruise aboard one of European Waterways’ luxury hotel barges?

Spirit of Scotland interior whisky

European Waterways offers a variety of whisky cruises in Scotland, all of which offer the opportunity to visit some of the country’s most famous distilleries and learn about the art of whisky-making. Whether you’re a seasoned whisky connoisseur or just starting to explore the world of single malts, there’s a whisky cruise for you.

The Scottish Highlander

Scottish Highlander Barge Cruise
European Waterways’ Scottish Highlander barge cruise

The Scottish Highlander is a small, intimate hotel barge that cruises the Caledonian Canal in the Scottish Highlands. This 8-passenger barge is perfect for small groups of friends or families who want to enjoy a relaxing and luxurious whisky cruise.

The Scottish Highlander’s Whisky Trail Cruise visits three of Scotland’s most famous distilleries: Tomatin, Glen Ord, and Benromach. Guests will enjoy private guided tours of the distilleries, followed by tastings of the various single malts. They’ll also learn about the unique production processes behind each whisky.

In addition to distillery visits, the Scottish Highlander’s Whisky Trail Cruise also includes excursions to historic castles and stunning Highland scenery. Guests will have the opportunity to explore the Cairngorm Mountains, visit the Loch Ness Monster, and enjoy a traditional Scottish ceilidh.

The Spirit of Scotland

Spirit of Scotland barge cruise - European Waterways
European Waterways’ Spirit of Scotland

The Spirit of Scotland is a larger, more luxurious hotel barge that cruises the Caledonian Canal and Loch Ness. This 12-passenger barge is perfect for groups of friends or families who want to enjoy a more spacious and opulent whisky cruise.

The Spirit of Scotland’s Whisky Trail Cruise visits four of Scotland’s most famous distilleries: Dalwhinnie, Tomatin, Glen Ord, and Benromach. Guests will enjoy private guided tours of the distilleries, followed by tastings of the various single malts. They’ll also learn about the unique production processes behind each whisky.

Spirit of Scotland sundeck

In addition to distillery visits, the Spirit of Scotland’s Whisky Trail Cruise also includes excursions to historic castles and stunning Highland scenery. Guests will have the opportunity to explore the Cairngorm Mountains, visit the Loch Ness Monster, and enjoy a traditional Scottish ceilidh.

Whether you choose to cruise aboard the Scottish Highlander or the Spirit of Scotland, you’re sure to have a memorable whisky cruise in Scotland. I’m hoping to experience something like this on European Waterways later this year. Stay tuned!