12/09/2026
Can you believe this happened off the coast of Scotland!? 🦈🌊
This incredible encounter was filmed on a tour with Basking Shark Scotland - and yes, that’s a basking shark, right here in Scottish waters.
Basking sharks are the second-largest fish in the world, growing up to around 10 metres long. Large numbers return to waters off Scotland’s west coast each summer, particularly the Sea of the Hebrides, where they feed on plankton. Despite their size, these gentle, passive filter-feeders are not considered dangerous to people. They have hundreds of tiny teeth, but these are not used for feeding - instead, specialised gill rakers strain plankton as the sharks filter up to around two million litres of seawater an hour.
Fancy getting in the water with one? Basking Shark Scotland is based in Oban and runs trips from April to October, heading out to Mull, Coll and Tiree with expert guides. Watch from the boat or get in and swim alongside them - trips also include snorkelling with seals and some of the best wild swimming spots around. Find out more and book at Basking Shark Scotland