The world-famous Caledonian Canal has reopened following the relaxation of the latest lockdown restrictions.
The busy waterway now has traffic on it again, although operators Scottish Canals have said some restrictions remain in place to protect staff and water users.
The operator has deployed fewer seasonal lock-keepers to operate its 29 locks with social distancing requirements resulting in fewer boats being allowed to enter lock chambers.
The waterway, which spans from Fort William to Inverness, also allows boats to travel between the sea at Loch Linnhe and the Beauly Firth with around 1,300 boat movements each year.
Lockdown has had a significant impact on operations for Scottish Canals as well as placing strain on the organisation’s finances.
Bosses have also warned that changes may be forced over the ways in which its waterways are managed in the future.
Boat users have been advised to expect journeys to take up to two days longer along the 60-mile stretch to ensure all guidelines and requirements can be met.
Scottish Canals have asked users to keep to the two-metre distancing rule where possible and remember to “be safe, be smart, and be kind” when using shared spaces.
Crew members will be responsible for tying their own lines at every lock to minimise interaction with others and help protect all against any potential spread of Covid-19.
Calls were made earlier this month for Scottish Canals to open sooner and show “better strategic thinking and a bit of imagination” as some users found themselves stuck and unable to depart during lockdown.
