Invergordon Cruise Excursion PRIVATE Tour

If you’re planning a cruise stop in Invergordon and want to see a bit more than just the port’s edge, a private tour like this one might be just what you’re looking for. It promises to take you off the beaten path, showcasing some lesser-known spots alongside iconic Scottish sights, all tailored specifically to your group’s interests. With a flexible itinerary and personalized service, it aims to give you a custom Highland experience without the crowds.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it balances history, nature, and local flavor. The guides are praised for their knowledge and engaging style, which makes even the more serious sites like Culloden feel accessible and interesting. Plus, the inclusion of stops like a distillery visit and scenic walks through Reelig Glen adds a touch of variety that appeals to a broad range of travelers. On the flip side, a possible downside is the cost—around $880 for a group of up to seven—so it’s worth considering whether the private, customizable aspect aligns with your budget and expectations.

This tour seems best suited for travelers who want a flexible and intimate experience, avoiding large group tours. Whether you’re history buffs, food lovers, or nature enthusiasts, you’ll likely find something to enjoy here. If you’re after a personalized Highland adventure that mixes iconic sights with hidden gems, this could be a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Private, customizable experience tailored to your interests.
• Includes scenic, historic, and culinary stops for a well-rounded day.
• Knowledgeable guides with positive reviews highlighting their passion and expertise.
• A bit pricey but offers excellent value for a personalized journey.
• Ideal for small groups up to seven people seeking flexibility.
• Timing is approximately 6 to 8 hours, giving you a full day of exploration.

Exploring the Highland Highlights: What’s on the Itinerary

This private tour from Invergordon offers a thoughtfully curated mix of sites and experiences, designed to give you a deeper, more personal taste of the Highlands. Since it’s customizable, you can select the stops that resonate most with your interests, but here’s a typical outline based on what’s usually included.

Visiting Clava Cairns: A Walk Through Prehistory

Your day starts at the Clava Cairns, a prehistoric burial site scattered with standing stones. It’s a peaceful spot that feels like stepping back in time. Visiting this site is free, and it’s a quick 30-minute stop, but the historical significance makes it worth a visit. We loved the way this site offers a quiet, contemplative start to the day, with plenty of space for photos and soaking in the atmosphere.

Culloden Battlefield: Interactive History

Next, the tour usually includes a stop at Culloden Battlefield. Here, you’ll find an engaging visitor center and a battlefield tour that brings the 1746 Jacobite uprising vividly to life. While admission isn’t included (roughly £13 per person), many travelers find this stop to be one of the most impactful, especially if you’re interested in Scotland’s more recent history. One reviewer praised their guide’s military experience, highlighting how it added depth to the visit, making history come alive in a very personal way.

Lunch at An Talla: Highland Cows and Caledonian Canal

Midday, you might enjoy a relaxed lunch at the An Talla Restaurant at Dochgarroch Lock. The setting offers lovely views of the canal and a chance to see Highland Cows up close. The restaurant is free to visit, and the hour-long stop gives you time to unwind, take photos, and walk along the canal. Several reviews praised the food and scenery here, noting it’s a restful, picturesque break from the busy sightseeing.

Whisky and Gin Tastings: Distillery Visits

The tour includes visits to the Singleton Distillery and Great Glen Distillery, where you can sample some of Scotland’s renowned spirits. While tour fees are not included (around £20 per person at Singleton), these visits are a highlight for many, especially if you appreciate good whisky or gin. The Singleton’s re-launched look and new experiences make it appealing, and the storytelling about the distillation process adds charm. The smaller Great Glen distillery focuses on handcrafted gin, offering a more intimate tasting experience.

Inverness: The Gateway to the Highlands

A quick stop in Inverness offers free time to explore the city’s highlights, like the castle, Victorian Market, and River Ness. It’s a great opportunity for some shopping or just soaking up the local vibe. One reviewer mentioned this as a favorite part of the trip, appreciating the chance to stretch their legs and see a lively Highland town.

Reelig Glen: Nature’s Quiet Corner

If you love nature, the Reelig Glen Highland Walk is an absolute treat. The steep-sided gorge, ancient trees, and particularly the tall Douglas Firs create a dramatic setting. The highlight is the massive Dùghall Mòr, a Douglas Fir that’s over 200 feet tall. This stop is free and lasts about 45 minutes, offering a peaceful walk amidst some of the oldest and tallest trees in Britain. Reviewers loved the scenery and found it a refreshing change from the cultural stops.

Loch Ness: The Monster and the Scenery

No Highland tour is complete without a nod to Loch Ness. The tour often includes a cruise on the loch, which is a fantastic way to see the landscape and maybe even catch a glimpse of Nessie. While the cruise isn’t included in the price, it’s highly recommended for the scenery and the chance to relax on the water. These cruises receive high praise, with travelers describing them as “the greatest show on earth.”

Urquhart Castle: A Legendary Fortress

A visit to Urquhart Castle rounds out the Loch Ness experience. Sitting on the water’s edge, it offers stunning views and a chance to explore a historic site that’s been part of Scotland’s landscape for over a thousand years. The castle’s dramatic location and ruins make for memorable photos, and many reviews mention how evocative it is to stand amid the ruins overlooking the loch.

Transportation, Timing, and Practicalities

This tour operates with private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, which makes for a comfortable ride between sites. The day begins at 9:00 am at the Invergordon Cruise Port and generally lasts around 6 to 8 hours, depending on your chosen stops and pace. The small group size (up to 7 people) means you get personalized attention from your guide, plus the flexibility to spend more or less time at each site.

Cost-wise, the $880.40 fee covers the exclusivity and customization, which might seem steep at first, but when you factor in the private transport, guide expertise, and tailored itinerary, many find it good value—especially if you’re traveling with a small group who appreciate avoiding crowded bus tours.

What Travelers Say

People who’ve taken this tour often highlight their guide’s knowledge as a standout feature. One reviewer called their guide “wonderful” and appreciated how he brought different perspectives to the sites, especially at Culloden. Another mentioned that their guide was passionate and made the experience lively and engaging. The ability to customize the day means you can focus on the sights that matter most to you, making each trip feel personal.

The Downsides

The main consideration is the price, which is higher than standard group tours. If budget is a concern, you might find similar sites in less expensive options, but you’d lose the personalized touch. Also, some stops like the distillery tours and Loch Ness cruises have additional fees, so be prepared for those extra costs.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re someone who values flexibility, personal service, and a tailored experience, this private tour is a solid choice. It suits travelers who want to avoid large groups, prefer a relaxed pace, and enjoy mixing historical sites, scenic walks, and local food. It’s especially good for small groups or families who appreciate a more intimate day out with a guide who can adapt to your interests.

While it’s not the cheapest option, many find that the comfort, customization, and knowledgeable guides make it worth the price. If you’re looking for a comprehensive Highland experience that balances history, nature, and Scottish hospitality, this tour might be right up your alley.

FAQs

Is this a full-day tour?
Yes, it typically lasts between 6 and 8 hours, giving you a full day of exploration starting at 9:00 am from Invergordon.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Absolutely. The tour is designed to be tailored to your preferences, with plenty of options to choose from.

Are the entrance fees included?
No, fees for Culloden Battlefield and distillery tours are not included but can be paid on-site or in advance.

What’s the group size?
It’s a private experience for up to 7 people, providing a more personalized and flexible day.

Is this suitable for children?
The tour is generally accessible for most travelers, but keep in mind the stops involve walking and historical sites that may not be suited for very young children.

How much does it cost?
The entire group pays around $880.40, which covers private transport and guide service. Additional costs for alcohol tastings and some entry fees are extra.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and a camera. Bottled water is provided, but you might want to carry some for the day.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
The information doesn’t specify accessibility details, so it’s best to contact the provider directly if needed.

What happens in bad weather?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

To sum it up, this private Invergordon Highland tour offers a personalized, flexible way to see the best of the region’s history, scenery, and local flavors. It’s well-suited for small groups or families who want a tailored experience with knowledgeable guides and scenic stops. While the price is higher than typical group tours, many find the intimacy and customization make it worthwhile, especially if you’re eager to avoid the crowds and explore at your own pace. Whether you’re fascinated by ancient sites, eager to sample Scottish spirits, or just want to soak up the landscape, this tour can provide a memorable day out in the Highlands.