In Honour of World Whisky Day on May 20th, European Waterways Invites Travellers to ‘Come Share a Wee Dram with Us!’ in the Scottish Highlands

It’s no surprise that, in Gaelic, the name “whisky” loosely translates to “water of life.” This popular spirit is an integral part of their cultural heritage. And while there is disagreement on whether whisky was invented in Ireland or Scotland, everyone agrees that today the two countries offer their own unique styles of the spirit, all of which are exceptionally satisfying

This age-old question is welcomed for discussion aboard two of European Waterways’ most distinctive luxury hotel barges, the 8-passenger Scottish Highlander and 12-passenger Spirit of Scotland. Both vessels cruise the Caledonian Canal of the Scottish Highlands between Muirtown and Banavie and offer Whisky Trail Cruises that visit at least three Scottish distilleries with prestigious pedigree. They also feature more than 20 single malts in their open bar. As a result, whether guests charter the vessels for themed cruises or book a cabin to enjoy their classic itineraries, whisky lovers are never disappointed. The 6-night, all-inclusive voyages offer ample time to discuss the finer points of one of the world’s most beloved spirits over gastronomic meals and daily excursions.

Whisky Trail Cruises

European Waterways’ Whisky Trail Cruises on the Spirit of Scotland and the Scottish Highlander feature a special itinerary tailored to whisky enthusiasts. They include private guided tours that reveal the unique production processes behind the various single malts, followed by tasting classes. Among the destinations is the Dalwhinnie distillery, known for its exclusive bottling and six single malts. Nestling at the foothills of the Cairngorm Mountains, at an elevation of 1,164 feet above sea level, it is also the highest distillery in Scotland.

Guests also visit the Tomatin distillery 25 minutes south of Inverness, as well as the Glen Ord distillery on the Black Isle. Founded by Thomas Mackenzie in 1838, Glend Ord is one of the few in Scotland with onsite maltings. Also on the itinerary is a trip to the Speyside Benromach distillery, a family-owned business for more than 100 years.

Whisky Trail cruises can be chartered at any time of the season and are not subject to a supplement. In addition to the distillery tours, they feature excursions to historic castles and, of course, spectacular Highland vistas and memorable crossings of famous lochs including the home of “Nessie”. Prices for the Spirit of Scotland, based on 12 passengers, start at €52,000; prices for the Scottish Highlander, based on eight passengers, start at €34,000.

“More than 40 million people around the world claim Scottish ancestry, but regardless of their lineage, everyone will feel right at home aboard our luxury hotel barges,” noted Derek Banks, European Waterways’ Managing Director. “With a wide variety of whiskies available, they are also sure to find themselves in good spirit and ‘tearin’ the tartan’ – sharing good times in great company – throughout the cruise!”

About European Waterways

Hotel Barging is a boutique, unique experience that offers an immersive and all-inclusive “gentle voyage of discovery” focusing upon the culture, history, fine wine, and gourmet cuisine of the cruise regions. With a 6-to-20-person capacity and 1:2 crew ratio, European Waterways is able to provide an impeccable level of on-board service and transport its guests on intimate inland waterways that are inaccessible to larger vessels. This fascinating network of smaller canals allows for flexibility, spontaneity, and ample opportunity to hop off and explore the beautiful surroundings via bicycle, or on foot. In addition to this, there are daily, chauffeured excursions “off the beaten track” to a wide variety of enthralling locations and activities, from exquisite wine tastings to private tours of stately homes. With over 40 years’ experience and a fleet that spans nine countries, European Waterways is the largest luxury hotel barging company in Europe. For more information visit www.europeanwaterways.com.

*Source: Nicole Tapster, PEPR Agency, nicole@pepr.com.au
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