The 126-year-old Steamship Sir Walter Scott has returned to service for the season on Loch Katrine following a major annual winter overhaul, sailing daily until late October alongside MV Lady of the Lake or MV Rob Roy 111. The much-loved steamer, named after Scotland’s, most celebrated literary figure, offers visitors the chance to experience classic steamship cruises in the heart of Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park and the Great Trossachs Forest National Nature Reserve.
Originally built on the River Clyde in 1899, Steamship Sir Walter Scott has a remarkable story. After construction, she was transported in sections by barge along the River Leven and up Loch Lomond, before being hauled the final five miles overland by horses to reach Loch Katrine, where she was re-assembled and launched in 1900. Visitors can explore this unique history further at a dedicated multi-sensory exhibition at Trossachs Pier, where the story of steamships on Loch Katrine and the loch’s role as the main source of Glasgow’s water supply is brought to life.
The birthplace of Scottish tourism
Above the pier and overlooking the loch is the award-winning scenic tower and viewpoint that inspired Sir Walter Scott to write The Lady of the Lake, his internationally celebrated poem published in 1810. The work tells the story of Ellen Douglas, who lived in exile on a Loch Katrine island, and her encounters with a disguised King James V, blending romance, clan conflict and Highland landscapes into a narrative that captured the magic of this special place.
Scott’s vivid descriptions of the dramatic Trossachs landscapes and romantic stories helped establish Loch Katrine as a must-visit destination, earning it recognition as the birthplace of Scottish tourism and today, visitors can experience this same view from the Scenic Tower and lookouts above Trossachs Pier. Now in its second full year, the tower has already welcomed more than 50,000 people, bringing many new visitors to the popular Trossachs attraction.
James Fraser, CEO and Lead Trustee of the Steamship Sir Walter Scott Trust, said: “It is remarkable that the historic Steamship has been offering visitors the opportunity to enjoy scenic cruises on Loch Katrine since 1900 and is still powered by the original engine built in 1899. The Steamship is being lovingly preserved under the umbrella of a charitable trust with dedicated trustees and skilled staff for the benefit of the nation and public enjoyment. It’s strong connection with the public and the pure waters of the loch, which are the main source of Glasgow’s water supply, has allowed her to endure, and we hope that this will be another busy season following a bumper 2025 when the steamship celebrated a milestone 125th anniversary. Her accessibility enables everyone, including those with restricted mobility to enjoy these classic cruises, and we are always delighted to see the joy she brings to visitors from home and abroad.”
For further details visit: www.lochkatrine.com
Did you know?
–Steamship Sir Walter Scott was built by William Denny & Brothers of Dumbarton in 1899 at a cost of £4,269. Designed to carry up to 540 passengers. Today, capacity is limited to 245 passengers in line with modern safety regulations.
-Originally launched in 1900, the Steamship Sir Walter Scott replaced the rowing boats and early steamers that once transported visitors.
-The Steamship was expected to operate for 40–50 years but has significantly exceeded its lifespan and is recognised as an important part of Scotland’s industrial and cultural heritage.
-In 1859 Loch Katrine became the water supply to much of West and Central Scotland. Through ingenious Victorian engineering, 23.5 miles of aqueducts and tunnels carried clean water for the first time to Glasgow, transforming the health of its vast population. Up to 120 million gallons per day can be extracted from the loch.
–Steamship Sir Walter Scott was named one of four Flagships of the Year 2025 by National Historic Ships UK. The award recognises vessels actively promoting maritime heritage through events, education, and community engagement.
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