Wildlife & whales boat tour

You will take a special boat trip in Firth of Lorn. This is a special conservation area and marine protected area. In this type of protected area, environmentally damaging activities, such as certain types of fishing, are restricted. The aim is to protect habitats and animals, restoring seabeds in this area and restoring abundant fish and nutrients. The migratory routes of minke whales pass through this area to enjoy the nutrient-rich waters. Besides the dwarf whales, you can also find the basking shark here in some months!

The whale season in this area runs from late May to early September in which May and June are early season and September is late season, July and August are classified as the most important months of the season. Besides minke whales, other marine animals such as seals, porpoises and dolphins can always be found in this area.

Your experienced skipper will make a decision on the day as to the exact itinerary, depending on tidal conditions, weather and sea state. Before you leave, your skipper will explain what the tide is doing and where the whales are likely to feed at that time. The likely route may be south to a chain of islands known as The Garvellachs, home to the early monastic settlement of St Brendan (542 AD). Whales congregate to feed just south of the Garvellachs, where deep, nutrient-rich, Atlantic waters rise to the surface. The boat may then head east to the northern end of Jurassic, another known whale hotspot. The boat may be in the more exposed sea areas west of the Corryvreckan vortex known as The Great Race. The tour always passes through the Gulf of Corryvreckan.