Do you cruise in the Pentland Firth or to Orkney? 

Marine Scotland is conducting a study into commercial shipping and recreational boating activity in this area.

Marine Scotland (the part of the Scottish Government responsible for marine management in Scottish waters), has commissioned a study of recreational and commercial shipping activity to better inform the marine spatial plan for the Pentland Firth and Orkney Waters strategic area.

The study aims to fill gaps in our knowledge of the existing use of these waters, which have an important potential for wave and tidal power generation.  

Cruisers in this area are being asked to complete an online survey which will help Marine Scotland to:  

• Identify areas used by recreational craft for particular events or training activities
• Prioritise particular locations within existing general cruising areas
• Obtain estimates of the number of vessels per month that use particular routes
• Find the routes that are used in adverse weather conditions
• Separate out routes where usage depends on the state of the tide.    

The aim of this study is to ensure there is good knowledge of the use of these waters by all stakeholders, wherever they are based, so that future developments do not inadvertently have an adverse impact on important existing activities.  

RYA Scotland (RYAS) has been closely involved in this study and information from the RYA Coastal Atlas of Recreational Boating and from the local RYAS coastwatchers has already been contributed. There will also be a study of vessels calling at local marinas.  

Dr G Russell from RYAS explains “We would encourage everyone who regularly cruises or has cruised  in this area to fill in the questionnaire. The more information we as a group can provide to Marine Scotland the better they will be able to balance the interests of all users through the marine planning process and ensure the integrity of these beautiful cruising grounds.”

Anatec Limited is a leading service provider in risk based decision making. We work in a variety of sectors, and conducting the survey on behalf of Marine Scotland into the commercial and recreational use of the Pentland Firth and Orkney Waters Strategic Area.

Stromness Harbour - Copyright John M Baxter