4 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Herald Scotland
Steamship marks 125 years sailing on scenic Scottish loch
Departing with a long blast from the ship's steam whistle, the excited cheers of young voices marked the start of a weekend-long Steamboat Festival at Trossachs Pier.
The festival is the centrepiece of a special anniversary year for the Steamship Sir Walter Scott, which was crowned Flagship of the Year 2025 by National Historic Ships UK in April.
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Historic steamship gears up for 125th anniversary celebration
Historic ship begins 125th season on scenic Scottish loch
SS Sir Walter Scott returns to Loch Katrine
An actor portraying Sir Walter Scott joined the celebrations, honouring the poet whose 1810 masterpiece 'The Lady of the Lake' made him and Loch Katrine, where the poem is set, famous.
Built in 1899 at Denny's Shipyard in Dumbarton on the Clyde, Steamship Sir Walter Scott was commissioned to replace the ageing and smaller Rob Roy steamer and help satisfy the huge demand for sailings from the large numbers of visitors flocking to the Trossachs.
Tributes were also paid to Captain John MacKinnon, who steered the maiden voyage in 1900. A larger-than-life figure, Captain MacKinnon and his family played a defining role in the first half of the Steamer's life. He remained at the helm until his death, when his son Donald took over as captain. During both World Wars, John and Donald's daughters also cared for the ship.
Highlights of this weekend's Steamboat Festival at Trossachs Pier include pirate-themed cruises aboard the Rob Roy Smuggler, complete with storytelling, face painting, and a treasure hunt, alongside a flotilla of classic and model steamboats sailing on the loch. There will also be live music, traditional games, appearances from costumed performers, local food and drink tastings, craft stalls, and fascinating heritage exhibitions.
In a tribute to the vessel's enduring legacy, 125 local schoolchildren from local schools joined the cruise, recreating the historic maiden journey. (Image: Paul Saunders)
James Fraser, CEO and Lead Trustee of Steamship Sir Walter Scott said: "To see 125 schoolchildren aboard this morning's voyage, representing the future, on a vessel that has been sailing since their great-great-grandparents' time, was truly emotional.
"This Steamer is more than a boat: she symbolises the Trossachs' unrivalled cultural heritage in Scotland. She was saved for the nation by incredible public support, and today she sails on, restored, celebrated, and loved.
"As we mark 125 years, we do so with gratitude and pride. We invite everyone to join us at Loch Katrine this weekend to celebrate a remarkable past and a bright future for this Scottish treasure."
The Steamboat Festival runs across the weekend, with Steamship Sir Walter Scott sailing three times a day in her anniversary year until October 26th.
