From Chichester Harbour to Loch Ness

Published 09:08 on 19 Sep 2025

CYC's rowing boat, Cygnet, together with 5 adventurous crew, travelled all the way to Loch Ness to take part in Monster the Loch.  This is a challenging endurance event covering the entire 21 miles of the loch from Fort Augustus in the south to Dores in the north. The crew of Neil Sturgeon, Helen Boarer, Charlotte Taylor, Louse Cox and Tracey Westcott performed exceptionally well to complete the event in 3 hours and 44 minutes, beating many fixed seat boats including most cornish gigs who have 6 crew.  

120 boats from around the UK and as far afield as the US came together to take on this monster of a race, requiring strong team work and determination whilst also building amazing friendships and links between CYC and other clubs both nationally and internationally.  

The race from Fort Augustus in the South to Dores in the North is a true endurance race where teamwork and friendship are just as critical as skill and fitness, said Tracey, the team captain. The laughter, grit and shared moments will stay long in our minds as the mist settles over Loch Ness."

The race was just one part of the teams Scottish adventure. Before the main event, they rowed sections of the Caledonian Canal, navigating its historic locks together. Back home, the crew hope their story will inspire others to give coastal rowing a try. Reflecting on the experience, a crew member said: "Our Highland adventure reminded us that rowing really is for everyone. It really is a low-cost hobby" 

Another fantastic rowing adventure - but you don't have to row the length of Loch Ness, a gentle social row in Chichester Harbour is also a great way to spend an hour or so! 

Chichester Yacht Club regularly offers taster sessions in the harbour, which the crew described as one of the UKs most beautiful waterways.

Please contact the Club if you would like to find out more about rowing at CYC.