Canals in focus: recent highlights, and a look at what’s ahead

Scotland’s canals offer something a little different. A space to slow down, spend time on the water, and to connect with new places, people and opportunities. As the canals get busier for the season ahead once again, here’s a relevant snapshot of just some of what’s on the go across the network.

Supporting inclusive boating

Recently, the Ratho branch of Seagull Trust Cruises made a splash in the local press, with the launch of their Audio Described cruises in partnership with RNIB Scotland to make their cruises increasingly accessible to those with visual impairments.

Run by volunteers, Seagull Trust Cruises provide free barge trips for people with additional needs and the elderly and operate nine boats across the Scottish Canal network.

With a reliance on the time and commitment of dedicated volunteers, Seagull Trust Cruises are currently looking for a new Honorary Secretary to join the organisation, with the current postholder prepares to step down. This voluntary role offers the chance to contribute to a well-established charity making a real difference on the water.

If you’re interested in governance, community impact, or simply want to give something back to the community, this role promises a rewarding way to get involved. Interested? Find out more online.

In addition to the top activity on the Union Canal, it’s been fantastic to see positive momentum along the Forth & Clyde as well, with recent activity at Lock 16 from Go Forth & Clyde who recently engaged several team members from Scottish Water in a Corporate Volunteer Clean Up Day, to support ongoing improvements at the site. Volunteers got stuck in sanding and priming outdoor furniture, as well as cleaning and preparing portacabins and containers ahead of upcoming mural installations. A great example of the positive impact collaborative working can make.

A notice to boaters and canal users

Scottish Canals have provided an update around repair works on the Kelvin Aqueduct on the Forth & Clyde Canal in Maryhill which have encountered a number of challenges since starting earlier this year. Difficulties in fully dewatering the structure, combined with a significant build-up of silt and the unexpected discovery of original timber elements, have required additional investigation and close collaboration with Historic Environment Scotland.

These complexities mean the project will take longer than initially planned, with completion of temporary fix and investigations now unlikely before September at the earliest, rather than mid-May as first expected. Navigation between Bowling Harbour and Lock 21 will remain suspended throughout, with ongoing impacts for mooring holders and canal users. Scottish Canals has acknowledged the disruption and will continue to provide updates as work progresses, noting that the project is offering a rare and detailed insight into the historic structure of the aqueduct. More information, including Scottish Canals contact details can be found online.

RYA Scotland works closely with Scottish Canals to advocate for the needs of canal boaters.

Interested in going electric?

With a growing interest in electric boating, ‘Electrika’ - an electric narrowboat show – may be on the radar of those interested in electric propulsion across the UK's canal & river network. Returning for it’s third successive year, the show will take place at Brinklow Waterside & Marina on the Oxford Canal from 10 – 11 July.

The free to attend event is set to bring together electric boating enthusiasts, manufacturers, and experts for a packed weekend of talks, exhibitors, and show boats. More information can be found on the Electrika website.

Make the most of your membership

In good news for Scottish boaters, RYA members can now access a 10% discount on selected Scottish Canals transit licences during May and September 2026.

It’s a great opportunity to plan time on some of Scotland’s most iconic routes – with the discount covering both the Caledonian and Crinan Canals.

Access your discount via the RYA Member Benefits page.

In wider Scottish Canals news, the upcoming 25th anniversary of the Millennium Link flotilla is likely to be a 2026 highlight, celebrating the reconnection of Scotland’s lowland canals. A programme of community-led events will take place along the Forth & Clyde and Union Canals, including a flotilla from 29-30 August. Find out more on the Scottish Canals website.

A connected community on the water

Got a story you want to shout about – inland or not, we want to hear more! Get in touch with communications@ryascotland.org.uk if you have a story you’d like to share.