Seeing orcas in Scotland is an incredible, unforgettable experience—and yes, it is possible to see them in the wild! 🐋
Scotland is one of the few places in the UK where wild orcas (killer whales) are spotted, especially during the spring and summer months. Here’s where you have the best chance of spotting them:
🐋 Top Places to See Orca in Scotland
1. Orkney Islands
- One of the most reliable places for orca sightings
- Especially around Scapa Flow, Brough of Birsay, and Yesnaby
- Best time: May to July, when they come close to shore chasing seals
2. Shetland Islands
- Arguably the best place in the UK to see orcas
- Hotspots include Muckle Flugga, Hermaness, and Foula
- Sightings often come close to shore
- Follow local wildlife groups like Orca Watch Shetland on social media for live updates
3. Caithness and North Coast (Scottish Mainland)
- Try places like Duncansby Head near John O’Groats or Strathy Point
- Orcas often pass by on their way between Orkney and Shetland
- Stunning coastal views even if you don’t see a whale!
4. Hebrides and Isle of Skye
- Orcas are seen around the Inner and Outer Hebrides, though less frequently
- Possible sightings around Neist Point (Skye), Uist, and Mull
- Whale-watching tours from Isle of Mull, Isle of Lewis, and Skye sometimes spot orcas, though minke whales and dolphins are more common
📅 Best Time to See Orcas in Scotland
- May to July: Peak season, especially in Shetland and Orkney
- August to early autumn: Still possible, but sightings become less frequent
- Winter: Rare, but not impossible
🚢 Orca Watching Tours & Events
- Orca Watch (run by the Sea Watch Foundation) – Usually held in May, mainly in Caithness
- Whale-watching trips from Ullapool, Skye, Mull, and Shetland
- Many trips focus on dolphins, minke whales, and basking sharks—but keep your eyes peeled for orcas!
📲 Tips for Spotting Orcas
- Bring binoculars and patience—sightings aren’t guaranteed
- Join local wildlife Facebook groups for up-to-date alerts
- Dress for the weather—it’s often windy and exposed where you’ll be watching
- Stay safe on cliffs and coast paths!
🐳 Fun Fact:
Scotland has its own small resident orca pod (called the West Coast Community)—but sadly, they’re endangered and rarely breed. Most orcas seen are transients, roaming between Iceland, Norway, and the Northern Isles.