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Part of the NEW Orkney snorkel trail!
Hoy is renowned for its dramatic seascapes – we guarantee the view is just as outstanding underwater!
Enter the water on the north side of the
causeway in North Bay. Explore the seagrass
area, looking out for brittlestars, nudibranchs
and spider crabs. It is well worth spending time
observing the rocks and boulders, to see lots of
invertebrates like colourful worms.
By road
Hoy is easily accessible from mainland Orkney. We recommend taking the ferry from Houton to Lyness (if taking a car, visit Orkney Ferries to book your vehicle on board at least a couple of days in advance due to limited car deck space).
From Lyness ferry terminal, the Ayre is 6.9 miles away; the Hoy and Walls Community bus runs a hail and ride service between Lyness and Longhope.
You can also the take the ferry from Stromness on mainland Orkney to Moaness on Hoy, travelling as a foot passenger/cyclist (however the Ayre of Myres is then 15.2 miles away).
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
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.
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FURTHER READING
Nearby reserves
Inganess Bay
Shapinsay, Elwick Bay
Stronsay, Ayre of Myres
Churchill Barriers number 2 and 3
Finstown
Local group
Local Group 1
