

Best for beginner divers, shore entry.
Bay of Firth features a lush Zostera marina seagrass meadow, providing a vital nursery habitat for various fish and delicate invertebrates. This site is accessible via a recreational slipway, making it suitable for beginner snorkellers. Water temperatures in this marine environment range from 8C to 13C throughout the year. Snorkellers can explore the shallow meadow, which supports a variety of temperate marine life typical of the region, including diverse fish and invertebrates that utilise the seagrass for shelter and feeding. The site offers a straightforward shore entry, providing a accessible opportunity to observe the local coastal ecosystem in the Orkney Islands.
59.00650, -3.10820
Visit at mid or high tide to swim above the seagrass rather than through it to avoid damaging the ecosystem.
Enter the water at the recreational slip, which is immediately adjacent to the Finstown car park.
Recorded at this site
Skill Level
Beginner
Entry
Shore
Water Temp
8-13°C
The seagrass meadow supports a variety of temperate marine life, including various fish species and invertebrates that inhabit the local coastal ecosystem.
Yes, the site is suitable for beginner snorkellers.
Yes, Bay of Firth is a designated snorkel site with a rating of 3/5.
Entry to the water is via a recreational slipway.
Water temperatures range from 8C in the coldest months to 13C during the summer.
A drysuit recommended is recommended for diving at Bay of Firth (Finstown Seagrass) in Finstown. Water temperatures range from 8°C to 13°C.