Building the Glencoe Skiff
Building the Glencoe Boat Club Skiff started with the building of a dedicated Skiff Shed in 2018, shortly afterwards the moulds, frame and kit arrived, and building could commence. By 2022 we had a stunning boat, ready for launch onto the stunning waters of Loch Leven.
Led by member David, with support from fellow members, he put over 500 hours into crafting this beautiful vessel, which has become cherished by the club.
The history of skiffing is fascinating, and rowing out in teams of five across the loch has since become one of our clubs most popular activities. It helps us grow a broad and diverse membership for our club which is focused enjoying all activities on the water.
If you would like to give it a try, you are very welcome to join us!
Below is a photographic diary of the building of our skiff as documented by David .
Skiff Build in Pictures – Click to Enlarge
You can row round the famous Scottish Ancestral islands, known as the ‘burial islands.
Eilean Munde is the largest of the burial islands. It was used by three local clans for the burial of their dead; the Stewarts of Ballachulish, the MacDonalds of Glencoe and the Camerons of Callart. It’s interesting to paddle out to the island and wander amongst the ancient headstones. Many are local quarried slate with inscriptions dating from the 18th century.
The smaller of the islands, Eilean a’ Chomhraidh (the Isle of Discussion) was used by the clans to solve any disputes. When agreement was reached the parties would sail East along Loch Leven to Eilean nam Bán (the Isle of the Covenant) where their agreement was sealed.This makes an interesting 8Km paddle along most of the length of the loch and a return journey makes a nice expedition for lunch on either of the islands.
Legend says that Alasdair MacDonald (MacIain of Glencoe) was buried here after the Glencoe massacre of 1692. The Glencoe Heritage Trust currently shares ownership of the island. Its is accessible only by boat.