Sea Kayaking in Orkney: Routes, Rental Companies, and Safety Tips

With its intricate coastline, sheltered bays, dramatic cliffs, and abundant wildlife, Orkney is a world-class destination for sea kayaking. Paddling here offers a unique perspective on the islands' stunning landscapes and rich history, from exploring wartime wrecks in Scapa Flow to navigating around ancient sea stacks. Whether you're a seasoned paddler seeking challenging crossings or a beginner looking for gentle exploration, Orkney's waters have something to offer.

Popular Kayaking Routes

Orkney presents a diverse range of paddling opportunities:

• Scapa Flow: This vast natural harbour offers relatively sheltered waters ideal for exploring the coastline and the fascinating history of the sunken German High Seas Fleet and the Churchill Barriers' blockships. It's suitable for less experienced paddlers and great for wildlife spotting.
• East Coast & Smaller Isles: Paddling around islands like Copinsay or Glimps Holm provides opportunities to explore sea caves, arches, and encounter large seabird colonies and seal haul-outs. These trips often involve short open water crossings.
• West Coast Mainland: For experienced kayakers, the Atlantic-facing west coast offers dramatic scenery with towering cliffs, geos, and challenging conditions, including strong tidal races near Eynhallow Sound.
• Sheltered Bays: Locations like the Bay of Skaill or bays around South Ronaldsay offer calmer conditions perfect for beginners or shorter, relaxed paddles.

Guided Tours and Rentals

While experienced kayakers might bring their own gear, several operators offer guided trips and potentially rentals:

• Sea Kayak 59° North: Run by local expert Kristian Cooper, this is Orkney's dedicated sea kayaking outfitter, offering everything from half-day trips exploring the Churchill Barriers to multi-day expeditions tailored to your interests and skill level.
• Arisaig Sea Kayak Centre: Although based on the Scottish mainland, they run week-long expeditions to Orkney, often including wild camping and covering significant stretches of the coastline.

Booking guided tours is highly recommended, especially if you are unfamiliar with Orkney's complex tides and rapidly changing weather.

Skills and Experience

Orkney's waters demand respect. Assess your abilities honestly:

• Beginners: Should stick to sheltered waters like Scapa Flow or guided trips. Basic paddling strokes and assisted rescue knowledge are essential.
• Intermediate Paddlers: Need to be comfortable handling moderate wind and waves (Force 3-4), capable of open water crossings, and proficient in self-rescue techniques.
• Advanced Paddlers: Require experience in strong tidal streams, large swells, rough water rescues, and navigation skills for tackling exposed coastlines and challenging crossings like the Pentland Firth.

Safety is Paramount

Kayaking in Orkney requires meticulous planning and preparation:

• Tides and Currents: Orkney experiences very strong tidal flows, particularly in sounds and firths (up to 8 knots!). Always consult detailed tide tables (e.g., Admiralty charts, Tide Plotter app) and plan crossings carefully around slack water where necessary.
• Weather: Conditions can change extremely quickly. Check the Met Office marine forecast before setting out and be prepared for wind, rain, and swell, even in summer.
• Equipment: A suitable sea kayak, paddle, buoyancy aid, and spray deck are mandatory. For Orkney's cold waters, a drysuit is highly recommended. Essential safety gear includes a VHF radio, GPS/map/compass, towline, flares, first-aid kit, and potentially a PLB for remote trips.
• Emergency Plan: Always file a float plan (inform someone ashore of your route and expected return time). Know emergency procedures and carry appropriate communication devices.

Wildlife Encounters

Kayaking offers intimate encounters with Orkney's marine life:

• Seals: Grey and common seals are abundant and often curiously approach kayaks in sheltered bays and around skerries.
• Seabirds: Paddle beneath cliffs teeming with puffins, guillemots, razorbills, kittiwakes, and fulmars during the breeding season (spring/summer).
• Cetaceans: Keep an eye out for harbour porpoises, dolphins, minke whales, and occasionally orcas, especially during the summer months.

Remember to observe wildlife from a respectful distance and avoid causing disturbance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I rent sea kayaks in Orkney?

Rental options may be limited; it's best to check directly with operators like Sea Kayak 59° North. Guided tours typically include equipment.

Is sea kayaking in Orkney suitable for beginners?

Yes, but beginners should stick to sheltered areas like Scapa Flow and ideally go with a qualified guide who understands local conditions.

What are the biggest dangers for sea kayakers in Orkney?

The primary dangers are the strong tidal currents, rapidly changing weather (especially wind and swell), and cold water temperatures.

When is the best time to sea kayak in Orkney?

Late spring to early autumn (May-September) generally offers the most settled weather and the best wildlife viewing opportunities (seabird colonies).

Sea kayaking in Orkney is an unforgettable adventure, offering unparalleled access to the islands' natural beauty and history. With careful planning, appropriate skills, and respect for the powerful maritime environment, paddlers can create lasting memories exploring this unique archipelago from the water.