Calf of Flotta
Island Small tidal islet off Flotta, Orkney archipelago
Small island off Flotta in Orkney. Boaters and naturalists come for coastal walks, seabird colonies and views across Scapa Flow.
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The Calf of Flotta is a small uninhabited islet lying off the southern coast of the island of Flotta in Orkney, Scotland. It sits within Scapa Flow, the large sheltered body of water used historically as a naval anchorage.
The islet is rocky and low-lying with no permanent buildings or facilities; it is of local interest for its coastal scenery and proximity to Flotta. Landings are uncommon and typically undertaken from vessels operating in Scapa Flow.
Historically the surrounding waters of Scapa Flow have been of strategic naval importance, though the Calf of Flotta itself has no recorded major built heritage. Over time it has remained free of permanent habitation and retains a natural coastal character.
Geographically it lies in southern Scapa Flow near Flotta, within Orkney Islands council area, off the northern coast of mainland Scotland.
- Location: Located immediately south of the larger island of Flotta and within Scapa Flow, a major sheltered harbour in Orkney.
How to Get to Calf of Flotta #
Access is by private boat from nearby Orkney islands or mainland piers; there are no scheduled services. Local skippers know safe approaches and tidal nuances.
Tips for Visiting Calf of Flotta #
- There are no facilities on the islet-pack out what is brought in and be prepared for wind.
- Bring binoculars for seabird viewing-auks and guillemots nest on nearby cliffs in season.
- Consult local boat operators in Orkney for safe landing spots; tides and currents can be strong.
Best Time to Visit Calf of Flotta #
Visit in the late spring to early autumn for the calmest seas and most reliable access.
Weather & Climate near Calf of Flotta #
Continental climate with cool summers (peaking in August) and cold winters (coldest in February). Temperatures range from 2°C to 15°C. Abundant rainfall (1035 mm/year), wettest in November.
January
January is cold with highs of 7°C and lows of 3°C. Significant rainfall (107 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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February
February is the coolest month with highs of 6°C and lows of 2°C. Regular rainfall (83 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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March
March is cold with highs of 7°C and lows of 2°C. Regular rainfall (96 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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April
April is cold with highs of 8°C and lows of 4°C. Moderate rainfall (63 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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May
May is cold with highs of 10°C and lows of 6°C. Moderate rainfall (52 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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June
June is cool with highs of 13°C and lows of 8°C. Moderate rainfall (53 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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July
July is cool with highs of 14°C and lows of 10°C. Moderate rainfall (60 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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August
August is cool with highs of 15°C and lows of 10°C. Moderate rainfall (72 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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September
September is cool with highs of 13°C and lows of 9°C. Regular rainfall (98 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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October
October is cold with highs of 11°C and lows of 7°C. Significant rainfall (114 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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November
November is cold with highs of 9°C and lows of 4°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (124 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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December
December is cold with highs of 8°C and lows of 3°C. Significant rainfall (113 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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