History of the Crinan Canal

The Crinan Canal links Loch Fyne at Ardrishaig with the Sound of Jura, creating a vital waterway through the Kintyre peninsula in the Heart of Argyll.

A vital link

The canal was built to improve access to the Western Isles, providing a safe route to the west coast by avoiding the journey around the Mull of Kintyre.  Clyde Puffer cargo vessels, designed specifically to fit into the Forth & Clyde and Crinan Canals, used the canal extensively.  They were a lifeline for inhabitants of the west coast, delivering coal and vital supplies.  On their return journey they brought back whisky and produce.

Reduction in freight

With increased transport infrastructure and the introduction of air routes, reliance on the Clyde Puffers lessened, and their trips through the canal became less frequent.

By the early 1980s the canal began to receive more visits from leisure boats, and its history and heritage were acknowledged with designation as a Scheduled Ancient Monument.

The world's most beautiful shortcut

While the canal today carries no freight, the waterway is full of life.  Ardrishaig Harbour continues to play an important role in Scotland's timber trade, and the canal is busy with leisure craft.  The route is dubbed 'the world's most beautiful shortcut', and boaters enjoy the trip through to the world-class sailing waters of the west coast.

The canal sits in the ancient kingdom of Dalriada, and the area's astonishing history and heritage attracts locals and visitors alike to explore.