Best of Inverness and Loch Ness - Invergordon Shore Excursion
Active
7h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
This isn’t just another coach trip, it’s a carefully crafted Highland experience designed especially for cruise passengers arriving at Invergordon.
Seamless shore excursion: Timed perfectly with your ship’s schedule, so you can relax knowing everything runs smoothly.
Best of the Highlands in one day: Combine the mystery of Loch Ness, the drama of Urquhart Castle, and the charm of Inverness without worrying about logistics.
Comfortable travel: Modern, air-conditioned coaches with large windows make the scenic drive part of the experience.
Expert commentary: Your driver and tour escort bring the landscapes and landmarks to life with stories, history, and Highland legends.
Hand-picked stops: We’ve chosen the most iconic viewpoints and attractions so you see the very best of the region in a limited time.
What makes this tour unique is the balance of convenience and iconic sightseeing, the perfect way to enjoy Scotland’s highlights straight from your cruise ship.
Available options
Invergordon Shore Excursion
What's included
Pickup and drop-off from various designated meeting points
Local guide
Driver/guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Perched on the banks of the world-famous Loch Ness, Urquhart Castle is one of Scotland’s most iconic landmarks. With over 1,000 years of history, the castle ruins tell stories of medieval battles, clan rivalries, and Highland resilience.
From its towers and battlements, enjoy breathtaking panoramic views across Loch Ness — a perfect spot for photos and perhaps even a glimpse of the elusive Nessie. Explore the visitor centre’s fascinating exhibits and uncover the castle’s dramatic past, including its role in the Wars of Independence.
A stop at Urquhart Castle is not just about history; it’s about immersing yourself in the mystery and beauty of the Highlands, making it a highlight of any Inverness or Loch Ness tour.
2
Stop 2
Pass by
Scenic Drive Along Loch Ness
No visit to the Highlands would be complete without experiencing the magic of Loch Ness. As we journey towards Inverness, enjoy a breathtaking drive along the shoreline of Scotland’s most legendary loch.
Framed by rolling hills, ancient forests, and charming Highland villages, Loch Ness is world-famous for its beauty — and of course, the legend of the mysterious Nessie. Along the way, we’ll pause at some of the best viewpoints for photos, where the vast waters stretch into the distance, creating a sense of wonder that has captivated visitors for centuries.
This scenic route offers the perfect blend of history, mystery, and natural splendour, making it a highlight of any Invergordon to Inverness shore excursion.
3
tep off your ship at Invergordon Cruise Port and into the heart of the Scottish Highlands on this unforgettable tour of Inverness and Loch Ness. Travel in comfort with your private driver-guide as you journey through breathtaking Highland scenery, charming villages, and historic landmarks.
Highlights include a visit to the legendary Loch Ness, where you can take in stunning views and explore the iconic ruins of Urquhart Castle, perched dramatically on the loch’s edge. In Inverness, the capital of the Highlands, stroll along the River Ness, admire Inverness Castle, and enjoy time to shop, dine, or simply soak up the Highland atmosphere.
This shore excursion from Invergordon is designed for cruise passengers looking for a personalised, hassle-free experience. With flexible timings to suit your ship’s schedule and luxury transport, it’s the perfect way to make the most of your day in the Highlands.
What's not included
Food and drinks
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
1 reviews
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Tripadvisor
5.0
2 reviews
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Important information
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Specialized infant seats are available
Child rate applies only when sharing with 2 paying adults
Passport name, number, expiry and country is required at time of booking for all participants
Meeting point
For Invergordon Shore Excursions, please follow the signs for excursion pick up point where our representative will be there to guide you to our vehicle
About Invergordon
Invergordon is a charming town in the Scottish Highlands, known for its historic castle ruins, picturesque coastline, and as a gateway to the stunning landscapes of the north. It offers a blend of maritime heritage, scenic beauty, and outdoor activities.
Top Attractions
Invergordon Castle
The ruins of Invergordon Castle offer a glimpse into the town's medieval past. The castle was once a stronghold of the Bishops of Ross.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free
Invergordon Museum
This small but informative museum showcases the town's maritime and industrial history, including exhibits on the local shipbuilding industry.
Museum
1 hour
Free (donations welcome)
Cromarty Firth
The Cromarty Firth is a stunning estuary offering beautiful coastal views, wildlife spotting, and various water activities.
Nature
2-3 hours
Free (boat tours may have a fee)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Haggis
A traditional Scottish dish made from sheep's heart, liver, and lungs, mixed with onions, oatmeal, suet, and spices, traditionally cooked in a sheep's stomach.
Main Dish
Not vegetarian or vegan, contains gluten
Cullen Skink
A creamy smoked haddock soup with potatoes and onions, originating from the nearby town of Cullen.
Soup
Contains fish, gluten-free if made without oats
Shortbread
A traditional Scottish biscuit made from butter, sugar, and flour, often served with tea or coffee.
Dessert
Vegetarian, contains gluten and dairy
Popular Activities
Hiking
Boat tours
Wildlife spotting
Scenic walks
Dining at local restaurants
Visiting cafes
Visiting museums
Exploring historical sites
Best Time to Visit
June to August
Summer is the best time to visit Invergordon for pleasant weather and longer daylight hours, ideal for exploring the outdoors and attending local festivals.
12°C to 18°C
54°F to 64°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Scottish Gaelic
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
British Pound (GBP)
Time Zone
GMT+0 (Greenwich Mean Time)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Invergordon is generally safe, with low crime rates. However, as with any destination, it's important to take basic precautions.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure, especially in crowded areas
- • Be cautious of pickpockets, especially in tourist spots
- • Use reputable taxi services and agree on fares in advance
Getting there
By air
- Inverness Airport • 30 miles (48 km)
By train
Invergordon Station
By bus
Invergordon Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the primary mode of public transport, connecting Invergordon to surrounding towns and attractions.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Local taxi apps
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Town Center
Seafront
Day trips
Inverness
20 miles (32 km) • Half day
Inverness is the capital of the Highlands and offers a wealth of historical sites, museums, and shopping.
Cromarty
10 miles (16 km) • Half day
Cromarty is a charming coastal town known for its historic buildings, scenic views, and dolphin-spotting opportunities.
Festivals
Invergordon Highland Games • July
Invergordon Christmas Market • December
Pro tips
- Visit Invergordon Castle at different times of the day for the best photo opportunities
- Try local seafood dishes, especially those featuring haddock from the Cromarty Firth
- Explore the town's museums and historical sites to gain a deeper understanding of its maritime heritage
- Take a boat tour to spot dolphins and other wildlife in the Cromarty Firth
- Visit during the Highland Games for a lively and festive atmosphere
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
