Cruise company Loch Ness by Jacobite has introduced a £2.4 million catamaran, capable of carrying up to 200 sightseers, to its fleet.
The Jacobite Maverick made its maiden journey on the waters yesterday after a ceremony at the company’s Dochgarroch headquarters, where Inverness, Nairn, Badenoch and Strathspey MP Drew Hendry doused the 65ft vessel’s bow with whisky.
Jacobite, which expects to carry more than 300,000 passengers this year, now has four boats operating on the loch.
Owner and managing director Freda Newton said: “When searching for a fitting name, Maverick stood out as it means quite unlike anything else, which sums up the Loch Ness by Jacobite experience.
“We commissioned Wight Shipyard to build the boat and are really pleased with the end result. It will help us share the loch with even more visitors to the Highlands.”
Ms Newton said the past two years had seen higher than normal increases in passenger numbers, with the totals rising 23% in 2016 and 29% last year.
She added: “New flight routes mean we’ve welcomed people from all around the world, including China, the USA and Australia, and the Maverick will help us continue to welcome more people than ever before.
“None of this would be possible without the dedication of team Jacobite, who sail a total of 4,359 hours a year.”
Mr Hendry said: “It was a privilege to join the Jacobite team on board the Maverick for its maiden voyage, which marks further investment from the company into the region.
“It’s experiences like these that make the Highlands such a desirable destination, and it’s no surprise that visitor numbers continue to increase.
“The expansion of the Jacobite fleet reflects the hugely positive outlook towards the region’s tourism sector, with our reputation for hospitality renowned the world over.
“This is only made possible by the local businesses working tirelessly to provide the best service to all visitors.”
