Orca Watch was started by the Sea Watch Foundation, in collaboration with our former Regional Co-ordinator Colin Bird, in 2012 to monitor the movements and presence of orcas and other cetaceans in the waters around northern Scotland. The event originated from concerns over the potential installation of underwater turbines in the Pentland Firth. The first seasonal watch was organised to gather crucial information on how orca used the area and to assess the potential impacts of such an installation on orca populations. Since then, Orca Watch has grown in scope and public participation, raising awareness of how and when orcas utilise the waters of the Pentland Firth during the summer months. The event now serves as a vital platform for highlighting the need for continued conservation, protection, and research into the status, distribution, and abundance of orcas around the UK.

Official Dates: Saturday 23rd to Sunday 31st May 2026

Orca Watch typically takes place in late May or early June each year. The event lasts for nine days. Check our social media and website for regular updates!

Orca Watch primarily takes place along the northern coast of Scotland, particularly around the Pentland Firth, which is a key area for observing orcas during their seasonal movements closer to shore. In addition to this, observations are also made from the Orkney and Shetland Islands, where orcas are frequently sighted during the summer months. These areas are important for tracking the movement of orcas as they hunt seals and follow other prey along the coastlines of northern Scotland.

The ‘Orca Hub’ is situated in John o’ Groats, with information and merchandise available inside.

During Orca Watch, the main attraction is, of course, orcas (killer whales), but you may also spot a variety of other marine wildlife. Common sightings include harbour porpoises, minke whales, and dolphins such as Risso’s, white-beaked and common dolphins. Seals and a wide range of seabirds, including puffins, gannets, and razorbills, are also frequently seen in the area. Additionally, there’s the occasional chance to spot larger whale species like fin and humpback whales, making Orca Watch a fantastic opportunity to observe a broad array of marine life in northern Scotland.

You can get involved in Orca Watch by participating as a citizen scientist, and one of the best ways to contribute is through the Sea Watch Foundation’s volunteer scheme. Volunteers are provided with training to ensure they can accurately monitor and report sightings of orcas and other cetaceans. You’ll be positioned at designated observation sites along the northern coast of Scotland, including the Pentland Firth, Orkney, and Shetland, where you’ll gather valuable data on cetacean movements and behaviour.

Orca Watch 2026 is partnering with Pentland Ferries, allowing our volunteers to conduct surveys whilst travelling from Gills Bay on the mainland to St Margaret’s Hope in Orkney.

While the main Orca Watch event is open to the public and free to attend, there are some ticketed events throughout the week, such as Evenings of Talks and workshops, where experts discuss cetacean conservation, research, and other marine topics. These are fantastic opportunities to deepen your knowledge and engage with the wider community.

For those interested in volunteering, you will need to apply through the Sea Watch Foundation’s volunteer scheme, where there is a small fee to pay. Volunteers play an essential role in monitoring and reporting sightings, and training is provided.

For volunteers, landwatches will be conducted daily with one day dedicated to the ferry.

Other events will include two Evenings of Talks, a welcome night, and much more to be announced closer to the time.

You’ll be able to view recent sightings on this website – they will be updated as soon as possible during Orca Watch.

You’ll also be able to view sightings submitted on our App and map viewer.

To find out about previous years, watch our online roundups!
2025        2024

Yes, children can absolutely get involved with Orca Watch! The event is family-friendly, and young people are encouraged to participate in land-based watches and report any sightings they may observe. It’s a great opportunity for children to learn about marine life and conservation in a hands-on way.

While some of the more specialised volunteer roles are for adults, children can still play an important part by engaging with the event, attending workshops, and taking part in the educational activities that run alongside Orca Watch.

Official volunteers for Orca Watch play a crucial role in monitoring and recording cetacean sightings along the northern coast of Scotland, including the Pentland Firth, Orkney, and Shetland. Their responsibilities include scanning the waters for sightings, recording detailed data on species observed, behaviour, and location, as well as environmental data, and submitting this data to contribute to ongoing research by the Sea Watch Foundation. Volunteers also engage with the public at observation sites, answering questions and raising awareness about marine conservation.

To become an official volunteer for Orca Watch, you will need to apply through the Sea Watch Foundation’s volunteer scheme. 

Applications close 31st January.

Please get in touch with orcawatch@seawatchfoundation.org.uk with any Orca Watch related questions, and we’ll be happy to help out!

Please note, this inbox is not monitored regularly over winter. If the matter is urgent, please contact info@seawatchfoundation.org.uk.