Well, I’ve seen a fair few things pop up in Edinburgh over the years, but a ‘boatel’ offering luxury cruises on the Union Canal? Now that’s a new one, even for me. You think you know your city, then something like this comes along and makes you scratch your head a bit, in a good way, mind.
Apparently, there’s this place called The Four Sisters Boatels, and their newest vessel, The Camilla, is now letting folk stay overnight then head out for a private cruise. It’s a family-run affair, they say, which is always good to hear. Keeps things a bit more personal, I reckon, not just another big corporation rolling in.
I mean, the Union Canal. Most of us just walk or cycle along it, maybe wave at a barge if one goes past. But getting on it, having a couple of professional skippers guide you along, that’s a different kettle of fish altogether. They’re offering two-hour or four-hour return trips, giving you a chance to see parts of Edinburgh, the historic bits, from a perspective you don’t usually get.
And it’s not just a quick jaunt, either. You can arrange a picnic lunch, all freshly prepared by local suppliers. Now, that’s a nice touch, isn’t it? Supporting local businesses, getting some decent scran while you’re taking in the scenery. It’s those little things that can make a difference, especially when you’re paying a premium.
Speaking of which, prices start from £250. Now, for just one or two folk, that’s a bit steep, I’d say. But it can take up to eight people. So, if you manage to round up a full complement, you’re looking at just over thirty quid a head for a couple of hours on the water with a dedicated crew and maybe a sarnie. That’s not too bad for something a bit special, is it?
They’re even claiming it’s Scotland’s only boatel experience offering these exclusive, fully crewed canal trips for staying guests. That’s a bold claim, but if it’s true, fair play to them for finding a niche. It certainly sounds like a unique way to experience a bit of our capital, especially for those looking for something a bit different from the usual castle and Royal Mile tour.
It makes you think, doesn’t it? We’ve got all this history, all these waterways, and sometimes it just takes a bit of entrepreneurial spirit to open it up in a new way. Limited availability, they say, so you’d best book ahead if a luxury canal cruise is your cup of tea. It’s not for everyone, I suppose, but for those who fancy a bit of calm amidst the city bustle, it sounds like a bonnie wee escape.
Originally reported by Edinburgh Live
