Steamship Sir Walter Scott Marks 125 Years with a Steamboat Festival
Today Steamship Sir Walter Scott set sail exactly 125 years since her first passenger sailing on June 6th, 1900, marking a huge milestone in over 180 years of steamship heritage at Loch Katrine.
In a tribute to the vessel's enduring legacy, 125 local schoolchildren from local schools joined the cruise, recreating the historic maiden journey. 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—a fitting celebration of a vessel that has become one of the leading examples of Scotland's Transport Heritage.
The festival is the centrepiece of a remarkable anniversary year for the Steamship Sir Walter Scott, which was crowned Flagship of the Year 2025 by National Historic Ships UK in April. This recognition recognises her unique place in the nation's maritime story and the deep affection she inspires.
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. Steamship Sir Walter Scott is one of several enduring tributes to one of Scotland’s most influential literary figures, alongside landmarks such as The Waverley Station in Edinburgh. Through vivid storytelling and dramatic narrative, Scott brought Scottish history, legend, and landscape to life, leaving a legacy for the nation.
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.
It would have been unimaginable to those crewing the steamer in 1900 that she would still sail in 2025. Yet, thanks to the deep affection she inspires and the tireless work of the charitable trust that preserves her for the nation, this remarkable milestone was achieved today.
Tributes were also paid today to Captain John MacKinnon, who steered that 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. The MacKinnon legacy extended beyond the wheelhouse—the family also sold gifts and refreshments, and during both World Wars, John and Donald’s daughters cared for the ship. In a fitting tribute during today's anniversary cruise, Captain Ken Henderson stepped into character as John MacKinnon, bringing the story of that inaugural sailing to life for a new generation of passengers.
Visitors to the Steamboat Festival this weekend can enjoy a packed programme of family fun and heritage at Loch Katrine. Highlights 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.
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.
