New Loch Lomond waterbus service ‘open for business’
A new waterbus service for Loch Lomond launches today (Monday 26 July) which will improve links from the East and West banks of the Loch and maximise the economic benefits this iconic tourism destination offers.
Scottish Enterprise, in partnership with Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park Authority, has appointed Clyde Marine and Clyde Link Ltd to pilot a new waterbus service for six weeks during the summer until Sunday 5 September.
This new pilot service is being introduced as part of an ongoing programme to boost economic activity in the area and improve the tourism experience with a view towards a longer running, self-sustaining service in future years.
Allan McQuade, business infrastructure director at Scottish Enterprise said: “Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park has been identified as one of Scotland’s key tourism destinations that will help to drive growth within the wider tourism industry. The investment in the new waterbus service will help to maximise the opportunities offered by the loch for those people that live, work and visit the park. The area already attracts some 3.5 million visitors and the new service will open up various locations around the loch, while reducing the pressure on the constrained road network in the area, as well as reducing the environmental impact of visitors to the area."
Fiona Logan, CEO of Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park Authority said “The waterbus service is fantastic news for the local area and provides tourists with an alternative method of transport which is kinder to the environment. The new pilot service will link a number of popular sites giving tourists the option to travel around the area easily and without a car.
“I’m so pleased that Scottish Enterprise share our vision of making the most out of this iconic Loch and that it has provided the funding necessary to pilot the service.
“I would encourage people to come and use the service, sit back, relax and enjoy the views around Loch Lomond without the need to drive.”
The service will operate 7 days a week between 10am and 6pm and will offer two different routes – the core route (Balloch to Balmaha) and a circular route (Loch Lomond – Cameron House – Balloch Castle Country Park). It is a passenger service that will accommodate bikes where possible. The service timetable will also link up to Cruise Loch Lomond’s new ferry service between Balmaha and Luss.