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Part of the NEW Orkney snorkel trail!
Finstown is famed for its snorkelling, why not take a dip with friends old and new!
Enter the water at the recreational slip, taking care of
slippy algae at the far end of it. In summer this area
is a seagrass meadow – swim towards the end of
the stone pier to the east. The seagrass bed is home
to snakelocks anemones, sponges, sea squirts and
starfish. Look out for variegated scallops attached
to the rocks on the seabed. Be aware of other water
users and make yourself visible (e.g. with tow-float/
bright cap). Take care not to stand on the seagrass.
By road
Finstown is on mainland Orkney and accessible by public transport. The snorkel site is immediately adjacent to Finstown car park.
Provided by Google Maps
Here is the wind forecast and tide times for this snorkel site. It is your responsibility to assess whether these conditions are suitable for snorkelling.
Other considerations
Take care entering and exiting the water at the recreational slip, as slippy algae can grow at the far end of it.
Be aware of other water users and make yourself visible (e.g. with tow-float/ bright cap).
Please be a responsible snorkeller; do not touch, take or tease wildlife. Take care not to stand on or kick the seagrass with your fins.
Snorkelling can be dangerous and is done entirely at your own risk. Information is provided free of charge; it is your responsibility to check the conditions present on the day and assess whether it is safe to snorkel.
Please read our top tips to being a safe and responsible snorkeller.
Share your snorkel stories #ScottishSnorkelTrails
We have worked hard with coastal communities and organisations across Scotland to create these snorkel trails, to:
We would therefore love to hear your feedback on how you’ve found using them! From photos, videos and artwork to posts, blogs and more – every piece of little or large feedback will be read and valued! You can share them with us via email (livingseas@scottishwildlifetrust.org.uk), Facebook (@Scottish Wildlife Trust) or Bluesky (@scotwildlife.bsky.social) – use the #ScottishSnorkelTrails.
“Meet up with a local snorkel enthusiasts or even book a snorkel safari with Kraken Diving, who will help you discover marine creatures hiding within the shimmering seagrass”
FURTHER READING
Nearby reserves
Inganess Bay
Churchill Barriers number 2 and 3
Shapinsay, Elwick Bay
Hoy, The Ayre (Hoy and South Walls Causeway)
Stronsay, Ayre of Myres
Local group
Local Group 1
