Explore the characterful capital of the Highlands — its red sandstone castle, Victorian Market, and River Ness waterfront — then head to the Moray Firth to spot Europe's most northerly resident bottlenose dolphins, and round off with a dram at a local distillery.
What to expect
The morning begins with a scenic Black Isle crossing to the Chanonry Point dolphin-watching hotspot, where the tidal race concentrates fish — and the dolphins that chase them — right at the shore's edge. From there, your guide leads you into Inverness for a curated walking tour: the castle esplanade with its panoramic views, the labyrinthine Victorian Market, and the banks of the River Ness. After lunch at a recommended local restaurant, a visit to a nearby Highland distillery includes a tutored tasting of single malt. The return to Invergordon is timed comfortably ahead of all-aboard.
Good to know
Chanonry Point is best at an incoming tide — your guide will time the visit accordingly. Inverness is just 25 minutes from Invergordon port, making this an efficient and richly varied day. Book directly via the Shore Excursions Group link; confirm group size at booking for the most intimate experience.
Sail there
Luxury cruises that call at Loch Ness — book through us, the fare is identical and your concierge stays on your side.
More to do in Loch Ness
- Private Loch Ness & Urquhart Castle Guided Day Tour
- Loch Ness Monster Hunter Boat Cruise with Sonar Technology
- The Loch Ness Experience: Immersive Exhibition + Private Tour
- Culloden Battlefield: Private Guided Tour of Scotland's Last Battle
- Falls of Foyers & Hidden Loch Ness Shoreline Wilderness Walk