Loch Ness and the Great Glen is a truly wonderful resource and should provide visitors with a lasting memory. We have highlighted some points worth considering when planning your trip:
Access to and from the waters of Loch Ness is very limited, Primarily Fort Augustus, Foyers, Drumnadrochit, Dores and Dochgarroch.
The water in the loch is rarely above 5 degrees C (some surface temperatures can rise to 11 C in August but this is mixed with the very deep, cold water as the wind picks up).
Waves of between 1 & 2 metres are common and can occur within 30 minutes of a strong wind establishing, however waves over 3 metres can be experienced.
Being fresh water, it is far less buoyant than sea water.
Dry-suits/wet-suits and PFD's should be considered as absolutely essential for all paddlers.
Marine VHF Channel 16 is monitored by HMCG throughout the Great Glen but on some shorelines the signal is weak.
Mobile phone signals are generally OK but not guaranteed. Make sure you have a fully charged battery and keep the phone in a waterproof container.
Winds are most common from the SW but this can change within minutes and is affected and complicated by the geography.
Where possible, work in pairs and always be aware of your location on the trail
Choose a shore and stick to it - if the weather changes you can quickly paddle to the shore and take shelter