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.
Calf of Flotta at a Glance#
About Calf of Flotta#
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.
| Month | Comfort | Temp | Feels | Rain | Sky | Humidity | Wind | UV | Daylight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | Poor | 3° - 7° | 5° | 107 mm | overcast | 83% | 7.4 m/s | 0.0 low | 6.9h |
| February | Poor | 2° - 7° | 0° | 83 mm | overcast | 83% | 7.0 m/s | 0.1 low | 9.1h |
| March | Poor | 3° - 7° | 0° | 96 mm | overcast | 83% | 6.9 m/s | 0.2 low | 11.6h |
| April | Poor | 4° - 8° | 2° | 63 mm | overcast | 84% | 6.1 m/s | 0.6 moderate | 14.2h |
| May | Acceptable | 6° - 11° | 5° | 52 mm | overcast | 84% | 5.4 m/s | 0.9 moderate | 16.6h |
| June | Acceptable | 8° - 13° | 10° | 53 mm | overcast | 85% | 5.1 m/s | 1.1 high | 17.9h |
| July | Acceptable | 10° - 14° | 12° | 60 mm | overcast | 86% | 4.8 m/s | 1.1 high | 17.2h |
| August | Acceptable | 10° - 15° | 13° | 72 mm | overcast | 86% | 4.8 m/s | 0.8 moderate | 15.1h |
| September | Acceptable | 9° - 13° | 11° | 98 mm | overcast | 85% | 5.8 m/s | 0.4 low | 12.6h |
| October | Poor | 7° - 11° | 6° | 114 mm | overcast | 84% | 6.5 m/s | 0.2 low | 10.0h |
| November | Poor | 4° - 9° | 3° | 124 mm | overcast | 84% | 6.7 m/s | 0.0 low | 7.6h |
| December | Poor | 3° - 8° | 1° | 113 mm | overcast | 83% | 6.9 m/s | 0.0 low | 6.2h |
