Researcher recording information on basking shark behaviour

© Basking Shark Scotland

Sea of the Hebrides

Basking Shark Research

At the end of the summer, basking sharks start their southerly migration to the sub-tropics. Join our team of scientists as we observe the sharks and collect data about this stage of their migration. An eco tour with a difference!

Guests on these trips can be involved in our southerly migration study with the primary goals as follows:

  • Study the abundance of southerly basking shark population
  • Record location, time, size, sex and behaviour of southerly basking sharks along with environmental factors (e.g. sea temperature, visibility, tides, weather)
  • Record images and videos of sharks for entry into shark ID catalogue
  • Analyse zooplankton samples from feeding and non-feeding areas
  • Analyse zooplankton samples for plastic to assess ingestion risk
  • Collect genetic samples 
  • Record cetacean sightings data (e.g porpoises/dolphin/whales)

Along with the study of the sharks we will have the opportunity to look for and record other exciting marine life such as whales, dolphins, porpoises, seals and seabirds during our time at sea. Passengers with enough experience will be able to swim with the sharks during these trips and we will be collecting underwater information about any sharks that we observe on the expeditions. Photographers and videographers are most welcome on the trips but if the primary goal is photography we recommend our other multi day shark tours.

The expedition also includes a series of info-talks on the ecology and conservation of basking sharks by our trained marine biologists.

The minimum age on the trip will be 16 years ( although mature younger kids who would enjoy being involved in this style of survey would be welcome).We encourage students or prospective marine science students as they will gain a lot of skills and survey experience. These trips are a great way to be involved in the real work of observing and recording large marine life. However the trip is open to everyone who has an interest in basking sharks, marine life and ocean adventure.

Please note the objective of this project is to study the sharks, their food and many other factors. Although we hope to be watching and observing them both in and out the water, the goal is gather quality data rather than like our tourism style tours during the summer season. Passengers will be expected to assist with taking measurements, data gathering and work up of samples.

As well as our research specific tours we do collect data on all our trips, contributing to almost 10 years of studies of sharks in this area. To see more about our other multi day basking shark trips check out our website!

COVID-19 information

Safe Travels

This business has confirmed that they have implemented, and will ensure ongoing compliance with, the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) Safe Travels protocols. The Safe Travels stamp is based on self-assessment and it is not a certification.

From £500 per adult


Departure days

  • Monday
  • Tuesday
  • Wednesday
  • Thursday
  • Friday
  • Saturday
  • Sunday

April — October

Contact details

Basking Shark Scotland

Dunstaffnage Marina
Argyll
Scotland
PA37 1PX

Key facilities

  • Parking

Tour information

Starting

  • Coll
  • Oban
  • Oban, Mull and Lorn

Length

4 Days

Transport

  • Boat

Type

  • Bespoke
  • Private
  • Small Group (1-16)

Languages

  • English

Themes

  • Adventure
  • Island Hopping
  • Landscapes
  • Outdoor Activities
  • Photography
  • Wildlife

Tour prices


From £500 Per Adult

Book now

Prices are subject to change depending on season

Basking Shark Scotland

Tour company information

Basking Shark Scotland

We specialise in adventure wildlife tourism, offering transformation experiences swimming with basking sharks around the Inner Hebrides. The sharks are seasonal visitors to our coastlines so we also run many other wildlife & watersports tours, charters and overseas expeditions. Along with an active science programme on the sharks.

Opening times

Tours March-October

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