With its magnificent backdrop of sea and mountains, it’s little surprise that the Old Boat of Caol is often described as Scotland’s most photogenic shipwreck. The rusting hulk lies stranded on a sand and shingle beach on the shores of Loch Linnhe, and is overlooked by Ben Nevis. Also known as the Corpach shipwreck, the decaying fishing vessel popped up here after a violent storm on a wild night in December 2011.
I paid it a visit when I was in the area recently, and of course dug out my phone and snapped about 200 photos. It sits at a somewhat jaunty angle, which affords a plethora of picture opportunities. You can approach the wreck from either Corpach or Caol – it lies between the two villages and is only a few minutes’ drive north west of Fort William.
Photogenic shipwreck I parked up in Caol and wandered along the beach, crossing a small stream to reach the boat. It was a bit of a dreich, cloudy day so while views of Ben Nevis were visible, they weren’t the very best. I’m no photographer but I took pictures at various spots: up close; in front of the stream, which allowed me to include the water, wreck and Ben Nevis in one image; and at the picnic area next to the Corpach canal locks.
As I strolled round the wreck, I noticed an old rope hanging over the side of it. Do NOT climb aboard! For a few irresponsible moments, I considered hauling myself up on it and seeing if I could get on board for a wee explore. I realised this would probably be very unwise – the.
