The Crinan Canal - you love them or hate them!

Another sunny morning in Scotland as we set off for the Crinan Canal. 

The Canal entrance was well hidden in the woodland - it all looked a bit unlikely.

The Canal was built between the years of 1793 to 1901.  There are 15 locks and 6 swing bridges - each lock has 4 individual gates and 4 sluices that have to be opened and closed manually apart from the first and last (the sea locks) which are hydraulically operated by Waterways staff. The swing bridges are also opened for you, which leaves a mere 52 individual gates to open and shut along the 9 mile canal.  It rises 20.7 metres above sea level and is currently used by about 3000 boats per year.

The opening of Lock 15 - all a bit dramatic, and make sure you are not too near the front of the lock or you will get wet!

We go up in the first lock.

Starboard!!!



We continue on our way past one of the swing bridges - all very peaceful and 'Olde Worlde'

We are getting in the swing of it now - tie up alongside a little pontoon, Sprigs opens the gates, Steph drives in, Sprigs closes the gates, Steph drives out and waits on the next little pontoon for Sprigs to catch up.  Total gate tally:  Sprigs 50, Steph 2.







Going Up



Closing the Gate



The Sea Locks are only operated between 0900 and 1700, which doesn't quite give enough time to get the whole way through the canal - well, I suppose we could have done if there had been more people opening the gates, or Sprigs had worked a little bit harder!

So - we are held captive just past Lock 5, where there also happens to be a rather nice pub.  We checked it out, and had a very pleasant evening.  Back to the boat - we have now met the Scottish Midge.  Lots of them.

Another exciting day on the water.

The end is in sight!  Only one more to go ...

Escaped at last, sailing down Loch Fyne.

East Loch Tarbert is our chosen destination for the night. A natural harbour, small fishing fleet, a traditional old high street, a pontoon berth, no locks and of course a13th century castle on the hill.  The scaffolding did rather detract, but the feral black sheep were rather fine.

So - we can only conclude that Canals are like Marmite, you love them or hate them.  Suffice it to say we are both glad that we did not opt to do the Caledonian!

Next stop...Ardrossan where we have some visitors to entertain.