Over centuries, the Loch has been everything from a waterway for carrying goods to villages along the extensive shoreline, a tourist route served by several steamers, a source of fish, timber and even illicit whisky! Eventually, through angling and cruising, it became an area for recreation serving a nearby large population.

With the exception of cruise vessels catering for thousands of visitors who are able to enjoy the scenery in an appropriate setting, commercial traffic has gone except for a ferry or two serving hotels or islands. Fortunately the last paddle steamer is being refurbished and the “Maid of the Loch” will sail the Loch once again as in bygone days.

Conversely, recreation has become the principal activity within what is now the Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park. Among other significant aims, that Authority (the NPA) is committed to preserving our natural and cultural heritage while maintaining the Loch’s position for multi-role use, with the problems that such a situation can create. Which is where we try to help.

As you will read elsewhere on this site and in our magazine, which you can either download or request a posted copy, the LLA is committed to serve the interests of all water and shore users in a manner as unbiased as possible. With over 5000 registered power boats and many others ranging from sailboards, canoes and dinghies, one would imagine that the waters could sometimes become crowded but this is not so. With an area of 71 square kilometres, there is room for all. The principal proviso to avoid conflict of interests is one of responsible behaviour and consideration for the rights and safety of others. Added to that, we might ask if you are aware that, by an ancient Royal Charter, the right to use the waters of Loch Lomond belongs to everyone?

For 25 years this Association has monitored the effects of these considerations and has presented proposals to each succeeding authority, starting with a voluntary code of conduct and now being involved in sensible byelaws which are currently being upgraded to address the standards required for the Loch’s position within a National Park and to ensure the safety and enjoyment of the increasing number of visitors which will result.

To achieve continuity of our role as the leading lobbying group, for water users at least, we need to have your input as opinions and suggestions for the guidance of our committee who are there to follow the policies set as a result of our members’ wishes and/or recommendations. We can’t promise to satisfy or to personally answer everyone but we will add all information to our database and will use that when revising or amending any proposals or documentation.

Please do contact us but also please remember we cannot support extremes on either hand if we are to succeed in achieving the aims set out in our Mission Statement!