Lord of the Glens pushed through heavy rain as we made our departure from Fort Augustus, situated at the northeastern end of the canal, and on towards Corpach at the extreme southwest of the canal.
The clouds lifted and periodically throughout the morning we had sudden bursts of sunshine, which illuminated the wonderfully rugged and beautiful mountains and hillsides that line the Caledonian Canal. The ‘educational’ aspect of our voyage began mid-morning with Steve who gave an explanation of “Clans, Clearances, and Crofting.” This helped put into perspective much of the otherwise confusing and deep history of this small part of the United Kingdom. Stewart picked up the educational mantle soon after and went even further back in time when he talked on “The Geology of Scotland.” During this talk he also pointed out that the science of geology was started in Scotland and developed over the decades mainly by Scottish scientists. How apt to be learning all this information in the birthplace of such an important discipline.
Just after lunch we had the unique perspective of looking down the set of eight locks that form the engineering marvel known as “Neptune’s Staircase.” This set of locks took us 64 feet closer to sea-level. From there we sailed a short distance to the village of Corpach where we would spend the rest of the day and evening.
Our outing in the afternoon took us out to the close-by area known as Glenfinnan. It was here in August 1745 that Bonnie Prince Charlie raised his standard and rallied the loyal clansmen and chieftains to his ill-fated Jacobite cause. Glenfinnan is also known for yet another Scottish engineering marvel, the enormous Glenfinnan railway viaduct that sets a powerful background to the mountains valley in which it sits.
Back on board, and following dinner, we awaited eagerly for tomorrow when Lord of the Glens would enter the last set of locks on the Caledonian Canal, enter the body of salt water known as Loch Linnhe and start the second part of our voyage around the islands of the Inner Hebrides.
