Watch orcas from the cliffs of Shetland, the UK's orca capital, where northern pods hunt seals close to shore through the summer. Over 90% of Britain's orca sightings happen around Shetland and Orkney, and encounters are famously land-based and free, tracked in real time through local sightings groups. The killer whales pass through from May to September, best in July when seal pups draw them inshore.
Watch orcas from the cliffs of Shetland, the UK's orca capital, where northern pods hunt seals close to shore through the summer. Over 90% of Britain's orca sightings happen around Shetland and Orkney, and encounters are famously land-based and free, tracked in real time through local sightings groups. The killer whales pass through from May to September, best in July when seal pups draw them inshore.
Up to 70% sighting chance in Shetland Islands / Hebrides (Scotland, UK). Best months: July, June, August.
May to September, with July the peak when common seal pups bring pods close to shore, though there is also a winter run from October to January.
Yes, Shetland is one of the world's best places for shore-based orca watching; whales often pass close to the coast at no cost.
Locals post live updates to the Shetland Orca Sightings Facebook group, which many watchers use to reach the whales in time.
No, orcas are wild and roaming, so patience and following the sightings network greatly improve your chances.
