Whale Watching in Shetland
Nestled amidst the rugged coastlines and pristine waters, the Shetland Islands beckon not only to nature enthusiasts and adventurers but also to those seeking an extraordinary whale watching experience. Situated at the northernmost tip of Scotland, Shetland offers an unparalleled front-row seat to a mesmerising display of marine life, positioning the region as a premier destination for unforgettable whale watching holidays.
Whale Watching Scotland: How to spot whales like the locals
While Scotland's reputation as one of the world's top 12 whale watching destinations is well-deserved, it's important to note that the success of a whale watching holiday isn't guaranteed, even in the supreme setting of Shetland, and especially for inexperienced enthusiasts who may overlook important factors. For those eager to experience the exhilaration of whale watching in the UK, timing and location are key.
Where can you see whales in Scotland?
When it comes to the world of whale watching in Scotland, Shetland emerges as a reigning champion. Renowned as one of Scotland's premier locations for whale watching, Shetland's allure extends far and wide. Its untamed landscapes and breathtaking views create an immersive experience, no matter the direction you turn your gaze.
What helps to truly distinguish Shetland as the best place for whale watching in Scotland is its distinctive geographical advantage. On the island, you'll never be more than three miles away from the embrace of the ocean. This close-knit relationship with the sea creates an undeniable haven for those passionate about marine life. The surrounding waters play host to a diverse array of marine species and offers a dynamic theatre for these magnificent creatures to showcase their splendor, stirring the hearts of enthusiasts.
The Shetland Islands offer an array of prime viewpoints for whale watching. Notably, Lerwick, the bustling main port and capital of the islands, stands as a popular launchpad for many whale watching tours. The rugged coastal cliffs, exemplified by sites like Eshaness and Sumburgh Head, present remarkable opportunities to spot marine giants from the shoreline.
When is the best time to see whales in Scotland?
For optimal whale watching in Scotland, consider planning your trip during the late spring through late summer, with a special emphasis on the warmer months spanning from May to August. These months bring forth a tranquil ocean environment, yielding ideal conditions for witnessing the majesty of an array of whale species.
July is a prime time for whale sightings in The Shetland Islands. The enchantment of connecting with nature is enhanced by the backdrop of Shetland's extended summer nights from mid-May to mid-July “when the sun merely sets to rise again at once”, referred to by Shetland locals as the Simmer Dim. This unique phenomenon will add an extra layer of magic to your experience, ensuring that whale watching holidays in the Shetland Islands become a remarkable rendezvous with the natural world. While July stands out as a prime window for sightings, don't overlook the period from October to January, which also boasts a high frequency of whale encounters.
To help you plan for your whale watching holiday, check out Nature Shetland’s sightings page for the latest sightings of whale species and many other animals you can find around Shetland.
What to expect from whale watching holidays in Shetland
Setting out on a whale watching excursion in Shetland is a blend of anticipation and exploration. While sightings are not guaranteed due to the wild nature of the ocean shaped by unpredictable weather, the very possibility of encountering these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat is exhilarating.
We recommend planning other activities in Shetland not only to expand the horizons of your whale watching holiday, but to also navigate Shetland’s uncertain weather. Read all about things to do in Shetland while you wait out turbulent tides.
Put faces to whale names
Scotland's coastal waters are a haven for an impressive variety of whale species, drawing enthusiasts from around the world. Among the notable residents and visitors are:
Orcas, also known as Killer Whales, stand as Scotland's marine gems, embodying true apex predators. These grand creatures showcase intricate social structures and boast the iconic black and white patterns. Shetland is one of the best locations for catching sight of these intelligent and powerful creatures, enhancing the experience of orca watching in Scotland to a remarkable level.
Minke Whales, the most frequently spotted whales in the UK, are characterized by their compact size and distinct white markings on their pectoral fins. Their lively antics and frequent appearances add a touch of delight to the experience of whale watching in the UK, making them a favorite among observers.
Humpback Whales, the sea's majestic giants, are renowned for their impressive acrobatics, including breaches and tail slaps. The unique patterns on the underside of their flukes enable individual identification. These magnificent beings grace Scotland's waters during their migrations, infusing every whale watching Scotland expedition with heightened excitement.
Pilot Whales, often encountered in close-knit social clusters called pods, exhibit a gentle and friendly disposition. With their sleek black bodies and distinctively bulbous foreheads, they are easily recognizable during whale spotting escapades.
Whilst whale watching in Scotland, you’ll likely come across fellow ocean inhabitants, such as splendid White-sided dolphins and endearing Grey seals. Amidst the thriving marine mammal community, a diverse range of other wildlife awaits discovery, with stunning birdlife taking centre stage. Take a look at our previous articles for further informational about marine animals around the islands and other Shetland wildlife.
Preserving the marine wonder
Whale watching in Shetland encompasses not just an exhilarating escapade but also an avenue to cultivate a profound reverence for marine conservation. Observing these beings flourish in their natural habitat underscores the urgency of safeguarding our oceans.
Local tour operators in the area offer guided boat excursions that combine informative insight with a respectful approach toward whale watching in Scotland, guaranteeing minimal disruption to these remarkable animals, enabling them to continue their pivotal roles within the marine ecosystem. Seasoned guides, often including marine biologists, share their expertise regarding the whales' behavior and ecosystem, enriching the educational facet of the encounter.
Whale watching in Shetland is an immersive journey that will connect you to the vibrant marine life along Scotland's coastline. From renowned orcas, often called killer whales in Scotland, to serene minke whales, these waters shelter diverse majestic beings eagerly waiting for your admiration.
Venturing into the North Atlantic, the thrill of exploration and enchantment of encountering these colossal creatures will forge unforgettable memories of your whale watching holiday. This is the heart of whale watching Scotland—an encounter with nature's grandeur that echoes not just in Shetland's shores, but throughout the wider expanse of UK whale watching.
How do you get to the Shetland Islands?
The most common ways to travel to the islands are either arriving by ferry or by getting flights to Shetland. At Airtask, we offer Shetland inter-island flights, operating passenger services between Lerwick, departing from Tingwall Airport, to both Foula and Fair Isle. For more information and flight scheduling, please click here.
Looking for something adventurous?
A whale watching holiday in the Shetland Islands isn’t just about spotting magnificent marine creatures; it’s about immersing yourself in the stunning coastal landscape as well. Why not view all of the magnificent sights of the Shetland Islands from above? Among the most awe-inspiring things to do in Shetland, is to take in the magnificent lochs, stunning beaches, historical sites and more from an aerial perspective. Call 01595 840246 or email lwk.ops@airtask.com to secure your place on the only scenic flights available in Shetland.