CRINAN CANAL, a small ship-canal in Scotland, extending from Ardrishaig on Loch Gilp to Crinan on Loch Crinan. It was made by a company incorporated in 1793, and was opened for traffic in 18oI. At various times it received grants of public money, and ultimately in respect of these it passed into the hands of the government. In 1848 it was vested by parliament in the commissioners of the Caledonian canal, who had in fact admin istered it for many years previously. The length of the canal is 9 m., and it saves vessels sailing from the Clyde a distance of about 85 m. as compared with the alternative route round the Mull of Kintyre. Its highest reach is 64 ft. above sea-level; its locks number 15, and admit vessels up to a draught of 0 ft.