In 1987 a new branch was formed based in Inverness to cater for the disabled people from all over the Highlands, from Skye in the west, Thurso in the north and Aberdeen in the south-east. An existing boat, the Abbey Princess was purchased by the Trust with generous assistance from the Highland Region. The boat was re-named the ‘Highland Seagull’ and was equipped for use for disabled groups and put into service in 1988 operating from Jim Hogan’s Marina at Muirhead on the Caledonian Canal. The Highland Seagull was slightly larger than the Yarrow design, needed because of the operations on a more open stretch of water.” (BB)
The Highland Branch originated in 1987 with the aim of providing free cruising for those with special needs on the Caledonian commercial waterway used by many hired cruisers, private yachts, commercial and naval traffic. The branch was formed with the co-operation of the Trustees, local councillors and volunteers, being organised by the Director of Libraries and Leisure Services for Highland Council.
Cruising takes place from April to September of each year, manned by some 25 unpaid volunteers, half of whom are competent skippers. There are two trips per day at 10.30 and 14.00hrs Monday to Friday, each trip lasting about 2 hours. Tea, coffee, juice and biscuits are provided free, as are the cruises. Passengers embark and disembark at the Trust's twin jetties on the seaward side of Tomnahurich Bridge.
The 2001 season came to a premature end as our engine, which we had been nursing for most of the season, finally gave up the ghost and died. After consultation with the Seagull Trust it was decided to re-engine but first to have a hull survey done. This revealed that the plating on the bottom of the boat was badly corroded and it was decided to have the bottom re-plated.
As we were to have no boat for the 2002 season the Kirkintilloch Branch kindly offered to let us have the use of the "Yarrow Seagull" for as long as required. It arrived in April and the "Highland Seagull" left on the return trip to have the work done at Grangemouth. Since then things have gone well with plenty of bookings.