Kayaking in Shetland: The Ultimate Beginner's Guide
With its rugged coastlines, pristine waters, and diverse marine life, kayaking in Scotland is a dream come true for those with a passion for sea kayaking and kayak fishing aficionados alike. The Shetland Islands, often affectionately known as the "Jewel of Scotland," are a remote archipelago comprising over 100 islands and islets, found at the northernmost edge of Scotland. Their isolation and natural beauty make them an exceptional destination for those eager to explore uncharted waters for a unique aquatic experience.
Whether you're a novice ready to embark on your inaugural kayaking adventure or an experienced paddler in search of a fresh challenge, this comprehensive guide has you covered.
Before You Go: Preparing for Shetland Kayaking Holidays
Before embarking on your kayaking escapade, it's important to acquaint yourself with some crucial considerations to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience:
When To Go
The best time to go kayaking in Shetland depends on your preferences and the type of adventure you seek. The summer months, from June to August, are undoubtedly the most popular time for sea kayaking in Shetland. During summer in Shetland, the islands enjoy longer daylight hours, providing ample time for exploration. The weather is generally milder, and the seas are calmer, offering an ideal environment for sea kayaking and kayak holidays.
For those interested in kayak fishing, the autumn months of September to October can be a hidden gem. While the weather may be cooler, the waters remain relatively calm, offering excellent conditions for kayak fishing or leisurely paddling along Shetland's coastlines.
Weather and Gear
Shetland is renowned for its unpredictable weather. Be sure to pack a windproof jacket, an assortment of clothing for layering, and shoes that can handle potential wet conditions. Keeping a positive perspective on the weather, don't forget to include sunscreen in your kayaking packing checklist. If you own waterproof gear, it's a good idea to bring it along, although guided kayak tours typically provide essentials like jackets and waterproof over-trousers.
If you’re set on kayaking solo, its paramount for the safety and success of your adventure to equip yourself with a life jacket, paddle leash and the right kayak for the job.
If you don't own a kayak, fret not. Kayak hire facilities are available on the islands. During peak seasons, make reservations in advance to secure your kayak.
Scotland's Kayaking Rules
Scotland's "Right to Roam" policy permits paddlers to access waters freely, without the need for a kayaking licence.
While the policy allows for unrestricted access, it is essential for kayakers to remember the three core principles that underpin this privilege: respect for the interests of others, care for the environment, and taking personal responsibility for one's actions.
Guided Kayak Tours
For those new to the exhilarating world of sea kayaking, embarking on a guided kayak holiday in Shetland is a prudent and rewarding choice.
Experienced guides accompany you every stroke of the way, equipped with extensive knowledge of the local waters and the expertise to handle unexpected situations.
Beyond safety, the real magic of guided kayak tours lies in the wealth of knowledge and insights that your guides bring to the experience. These seasoned experts are intimately familiar with the Shetland Islands, from their geological formations to the diverse marine life that calls these waters home.
For more information about sea kayaking tours and how to book your guided adventure, visit Sea Kayak Shetland.
Guided kayak tours also provide opportunities for social interaction. You may be joined by fellow adventurers who share your enthusiasm for sea kayaking and exploration. These tours create a sense of camaraderie as you embark on a collective journey of discovery, forging bonds and friendships that can last well beyond your time in Shetland.
If you're eager to stay connected with a community of like-minded sea adventure enthusiasts beyond your guided tours, consider becoming a part of Shetland Canoe Club. Here, you'll find a hub for updates, events, and journeys, all shared with fellow kayak and canoe lovers in Shetland.
Prefer exploring new places through guided tours? Be sure to explore our article highlighting some of the other unforgettable tours Shetland has to offer.
The Best Places for Kayaking in Scotland
Ronas Voe, Northmavine
Located at Shetland Mainland's northern tip, Ronas Voe is a kayaker's haven, brimming with geological wonders like stacks, caves, and tunnels set against majestic red granite cliffs. Wildlife sightings are a norm here, with puffins breeding in summer, otters frequently spotted, and seals unbothered by humans sharing the clear waters.
Gulberwick to Quarff, South Mainland
While less renowned than Papa Stour, Gulberwick to Quarff offers a hidden kayaking treasure. Easily accessible from Lerwick, this route features long caves that may require a torch. Inside, the interplay of light on the water is enchanting, and you'll spot puffins and guillemots beneath towering sea cliffs.
Trondra, Burra
Trondra in Burra is an enchanting spot, especially for night paddles through its caves. As you dip your paddle, you may witness the 'mareel,' Shetland's term for the mesmerizing phosphorescence that glows in the water. While some may find caves a bit confining, those who embrace it find the experience utterly magical.
Under Saxa Vord, Unst
For the more seasoned kayakers, the journey beneath Saxa Vord promises captivating geological spectacles. Adorned with beautifully colored rocks and quartz cliffs peppered with caves and tunnels, this route leads you to the iconic Muckle Flugga lighthouse, near the UK's northernmost point. Here, the skies are alive with gannets soaring around, creating an awe-inspiring atmosphere.
Kayak Fishing
For those with a penchant for angling and a desire to explore Shetland's waters, kayak fishing is the perfect fusion of adventure and relaxation. Set against the backdrop of Shetland's breathtaking coastal scenery, kayak fishing offers a unique and immersive way to connect with the marine world while seeking your next big catch.
Best Kayak Fishing Spots in Shetland
Shetland presents a diverse range of kayak fishing locations, each with its unique charm. From mackerel to halibut, haddock to Porbeagle sharks, Shetland's waters provide a wide range of fish species to cater to anglers of all skill levels.
Begin your angling adventure at Ronas Voe in Northmavine, a sheltered bay known for its striking red granite cliffs, caves, and stacks. This picturesque setting not only offers prime fishing but also mesmerizing encounters with puffins during breeding season, otters, and seals that share their domain.
For more information about the plethora of other sea life you’re likely to encounter on your kayaking adventures in Shetland apart from just fish, check out our article here.
Yell Sound, with its sheltered waters, is perfect for beginners and provides a tranquil backdrop for diverse catches.
Unst, Shetland's northernmost inhabited island, offers a delightful blend of scenic beauty and abundant marine life. As you cast your line, you might spot a variety of seabirds and seals basking in the sun.
For the more intrepid angler, Shetland's offshore isles beckon with the promise of targeting larger game fish such as halibut and ling.
If you're a passionate angler in search of the ultimate fishing getaway in Scotland, look no further than our recent blog, where we delve into the world of angling in Shetland.
Kayaking in the Shetland Islands is a truly unforgettable adventure, whether you're a beginner or an expert. The rugged beauty of the coastline, the diverse marine life, and the welcoming kayak communities make this remote corner of Scotland a must-visit destination for anyone with a passion for paddling. Remember to plan ahead, prioritize safety, and immerse yourself in the natural wonders of the Shetland Islands on your next kayaking holiday.
How do you get to the Shetland Islands?
The most common ways to travel to the islands are either arriving by ferry or by getting flights to Shetland. At Airtask, we offer Shetland inter-island flights, operating passenger services between Lerwick, departing from Tingwall Airport, to both Foula and Fair Isle. For more information and flight scheduling, please click here.
Looking for something adventurous?
A kayaking holiday in Shetland isn’t just about experiencing the beauty of the sea; it’s also an opportunity to fully immerse yourself in the expanse of awe-inspiring scenery that surrounds you. Why not view all of the magnificent sights of the Shetland Islands from above? Among the most awe-inspiring things to do in Shetland, is to take in the magnificent lochs, stunning beaches, historical sites and more from an aerial perspective. Call 01595 840246 or email lwk.ops@airtask.com to secure your place on the only scenic flights available in Shetland.