Pelagic Bird Cruises

The open waters between the Scottish mainland and the Outer Hebrides are one of Scotland’s top destinations for pelagic birds.

Based in Gairloch, we are the only operator in north-west Scotland to run offshore pelagic birding as part of our 4-hour ultimate Orca 1 cruise.

Species of the Hebrides

Species you can find here include (amongst many others):

Shearwaters (Great, Cory’s, Manx and Sooty).
Fulmar

Petrels (Storm & Leach’s).

Skuas (Arctic, Long-tailed, Great and Pomarine).

Gulls (most common species plus Sabine’s, Iceland and Glaucous).

And of course, there is always the chance of the unexpected – rare gulls, Phalarope, even an Albatross!

This normally results in close encounters with birds which are otherwise hard to see and photograph. Gone are the days of flashing glimpses from windy headlands!

Cruise Seasons and Price

We operate Pelagic Bird Cruises during the spring and autumn.

Spring cruises are available between late April and the end of May. Autumn cruises begin in late August and run throughout September. Cruises at other times of year may be available on request.

Help and Advice

We are always pleased to advise and assist you with the planning of your cruise and your trip to Gairloch.

We can often adapt your cruise to meet the specific requirements of your group.