Private Shore Excursion from Invergordon | Cromarty Firth
This is not a rushed coach tour. It is a private, luxury Highland experience designed exclusively for cruise ship guests arriving into Invergordon.
Created by local Highland guide Emma Macaulay, this all day experience is tailored to your interests, giving you the freedom to explore at your own pace while enjoying comfort, authenticity, and exceptional service throughout. It is perfect for families, multi-generational groups, or friends travelling together who want a more personal and flexible day in the Highlands.
You will be met directly at Port of Cromarty Firth, just a short walk from your ship, and welcomed into a luxury Mercedes vehicle, accommodating up to 7 guests. Sit back, relax, and enjoy a truly personal journey into the Highlands.
Your day begins with a unique and memorable visit to Davochfin Farm, a family-run working farm featured on This Farming Life. Here, you’ll step into real Highland life, meeting the farmers, hearing their story, and experiencing a genuine connection to the land. This is not a staged attraction, but an authentic, behind the scenes experience that many guests consider the highlight of their trip.
From here, travel north to the charming seaside town of Dornoch, where your time is flexible and tailored to your interests.
While in Dornoch, you may choose to:
Visit Yvonne's Tartan Boutique, the only place in the world to purchase the exclusive Dornoch Tartan
Take a short walk to the world-famous Royal Dornoch Golf Club and see its impressive new clubhouse
Explore the historic Dornoch Jail, now a beautifully restored gift shop featuring whisky, tartans, tweeds, and a popular restaurant upstairs
Enjoy lunch at excellent local spots such as Milk & Honey or Dornoch Castle Hotel
Optionally visit Dornoch Cathedral or the fascinating Historylinks Museum
In the afternoon, step into a fairytale at Dunrobin Castle, one of Scotland’s most iconic and breathtaking castles. With its dramatic coastal setting and elegant towers, it offers a truly unforgettable visit. Explore the castle interiors, stroll through the formal gardens, and, if available, enjoy the impressive falconry display.
As this is your private tour, there is flexibility to enhance your day. Time permitting, you may also visit the peaceful Falls of Shin or stop at the spectacular Struie Hill Viewpoint, known for its sweeping views over the Dornoch Firth.
Throughout the day, you’ll enjoy relaxed travel, engaging storytelling, and a pace that suits you, not a schedule.
Most importantly, your tour is carefully planned around your ship’s timings, ensuring a smooth, stress-free experience and a guaranteed return to port.
Private luxury Mercedes vehicle (up to 7 guests)
Personalised itinerary tailored to your interests
Pickup and drop off at Invergordon port
Flexible pacing with time to explore and enjoy each stop
A knowledgeable local guide throughout
A fully private, customisable Highland experience
A rare, behind the scenes visit to a real Highland farm
Exclusive shopping opportunity for the Dornoch Tartan
Unique stop at a historic jail turned boutique and restaurant
Iconic castle and coastal scenery in one unforgettable day.
A premium alternative to crowded bus tours.
Step off your ship and into a private Highland experience.
Travel in comfort, explore at your own pace, and discover the Highlands in a way few ever do.
Luxury 8 seater Mercedes V-Class, unlimited mileage and fuel. Vehicle has privacy glass, Electric doors, Air-Conditioning, Leather Seats and extra trunk space for luggage.
Qualified tour guide at your disposal for the duration of the trip. In car microphone so all guests can hear the driver / guide.
Collection and drop off to Invergordon cruise port at the Port of Cromarty Firth. We will always aim to drop you off a minimum of 1 hour before the ship is due to depart.
Chilled Bottled Water
Scottish Inspired regional snacks along the way.
Children's booster or car seats can be included please let me know requirements in the notes section when booking. We have seats to suit babies from birth up to age twelve.
Inbound / Outward Travel is not included.
Meals and drinks other than bottled water are not included.
Attraction tickets and fees are not included. These can be added on as an 'add on' during your booking process.
Please ensure you purchase your own personal travel insurance prior to travelling.
Gratuities and Personal Spending is not included.
Cruise Excursion from Invergordon
Step off your ship at the Port of Cromarty Firth and set out on a carefully planned day exploring the northern Highlands, with a relaxed pace, scenic travel, and a mix of authentic local experiences and iconic sights.
Your journey begins with a visit to Davochfin Farm, a family-run working farm featured on This Farming Life. Here you will gain a genuine insight into modern Highland life, meeting the people behind the farm and hearing their story in an informal and welcoming setting.
From there, continue north to the charming seaside town of Dornoch, where you will have free time to explore and enjoy lunch at your own pace. Dornoch offers a lovely selection of cafés, local shops, and places of interest including Yvonne's Tartan Boutique, the historic Dornoch Jail with its gift shops and restaurant, as well as optional visits to Dornoch Cathedral or Historylinks Museum. For those interested in golf, there is also the chance to take a short walk to the nearby Royal Dornoch Golf Club.
In the afternoon, visit the impressive Dunrobin Castle, one of Scotland’s most iconic castles, where you can explore its grand interiors and beautifully maintained gardens set against a dramatic coastal backdrop.
Depending on time, the route may also include a stop at the peaceful Falls of Shin, known for seasonal salmon viewing, and a scenic pause at Struie Hill Viewpoint, often referred to as the Millionaire’s View, offering sweeping panoramas over the Dornoch Firth.
This experience is designed exclusively for cruise passengers, with a comfortable pace, engaging storytelling, and a guaranteed return to your ship in Invergordon.
Macaulay Luxury Travel is a bespoke Highland tour and retreat company based in Inverness, creating small group and private journeys that go far beyond sightseeing. We blend history, landscape, folklore, and authentic local connection to offer truly immersive experiences across the Scottish Highlands.
Founded by professional guide and storyteller Emma Macaulay, each tour is relaxed, personal, and thoughtfully paced, with plenty of time to explore hidden gems and soak in the scenery. Travel is in comfort and style in a luxury Mercedes V Class vehicle, ensuring a smooth and intimate experience throughout.
From scenic day tours and cruise excursions to themed adventures and multi day retreats, every journey is carefully curated to help you connect with the spirit, stories, and soul of the Highlands.
