If you are planning to come to Loch Lomond you should note:
- There is an upper speed limit on all of the loch, but it is 48.6 knots (90 kph) across the whole loch.
- Most areas within 150m of any shore are limited to 5.9 knots (11 kph).
- You must register your boat before use. This can be done on the day at the rangers office beside the balloch slipway. In theory this is free of charge, but you need to display the correct stickers and registration number - which are a prescribed format - so for a rib it will cost you about £8-10 to get these - they last for the callendar year and are renewed free at the office or for £1 by post.
See here for more info about rules etc >>>
http://www.lochlomond-trossachs.org/...ault.asp?p=222
And here for more general info on boating on the loch >>>
http://www.loch-lomond.net/boating/slipways.html
The facilities at Balloch are excellent - especially since they are free to use.
But beware they were closed just after new year due to flooding damage - I suggest you call the slipway 01389 757 295 to check if it is open again.
Oh - and just a little point - be aware that although it is "inland water" the fetch is about 20-30 miles so in the right conditions it can still get fairly impressive waves. On top of which the water can be colder than the sea at the wrong time of year (e.g. when snow melting off the hills).
However that is not meant to put you off - if you are planning to be responsible then the rangers and other water users will generally make you very welcome.