Jacobite Loch Ness Cruises expects to welcome over 320,000 visitors in its 50th anniversary year.
Marking half a century showcasing Loch Ness, one of Scotland’s most iconic destinations, Jacobite Loch Ness Cruises has welcomed visitors from across Scotland, the UK and around the world in 2025.
Among those enjoying its Highland hospitality this year were celebrities including presenter and actor Laura Whitmore and singer CMAT.
These visitors are supported by a dedicated team of 70 staff, 86% of whom are employed in permanent, year-round roles.
As one of the Highlands’ leading tourism employers, Jacobite Loch Ness Cruises contributes approximately £10 million to the regional economy each year through employment, visitor spend and its strong Highland supply chain.
“I’m thrilled that we’ve been able to welcome over 320,000 visitors to experience the magic of Loch Ness in this very special year for our business,” said Freda Newton, owner and executive chair of Jacobite Loch Ness Cruises.
“In 2025, we have continued to innovate and improve experience for customers so it’s fantastic to see that our work and the warm welcome from our fantastic team is attracting more and more people each year, with even international film crews and celebrities stepping onboard our cruises.”
Highlights of Jacobite Loch Ness Cruises’ 50th anniversary year include:
- A staff-nominated charity of the month initiative, with 12 local charities including Highland Hospice, Lucky2BHere, Munlochy Animal Aid, Centred Scotland and Maggie’s Highland receiving a donation each month, made up of donations from Jacobite and onboard collections.
- The launch of a free-to-use customer app, which uses GPS to reveal stories, insights, quizzes and photo/video challenges throughout cruises. Guests can unlock café and retail rewards, and monthly prizes recognise top contributors – enhancing accessibility, engagement and enjoyment for visitors of all ages.
- Complimentary places for carers on cruises and the launch of a sensory Santa Cruise Christmas sailing for neurodiverse visitors.
- An anniversary cruise and reception at An Talla with specially invited guests, including local businesspeople, current suppliers, stakeholders, and those who have been instrumental to Jacobite Loch Ness Cruises’ success in attendance.
- The launch of the An Talla Beag food truck which introduced fast-food versions of much-loved An Talla favourites.
- 50th anniversary postcard, featuring a specially commissioned image of Jacobite boats spelling out ‘50’ on Loch Ness, on which customers could write a memory from their time cruising the loch.
- The installation of a ‘50’ floral display at the entrance to An Talla at Dochgarroch.
- A commemorative coffee table book reflecting on Jacobite Loch Ness Cruises’ history.
In October, Jacobite was proud to become one of the first organisations to receive Highland Council’s inaugural Gold Employer Charter, recognising leadership in fair pay, local recruitment and long-term career development.
The company’s benefits package proudly includes pay above the Real Living Wage, lunches provided on shift, a 50% gym membership contribution, mental-health first aiders, an employee assistance programme and regular social events.
Freda continues:
“Our team is the face of our business, and they are vital to our success. For 50 years, we’ve been welcoming people from Inverness to India, Indiana and beyond, and I’d like to thank everyone who has been part of that journey.”
The company has exciting plans for the coming years and has recently submitted proposals to significantly enhance its facilities at Dochgarroch and to improve access and enhance safety at the Clansman Harbour.
