Based in the picturesque town of Oban, our shore-based snorkelling tours offer a unique opportunity to explore the vibrant underwater world of North Argyll. Guided by expert marine biologists and instructors, this tour is perfect for both beginners and advanced snorkelers. Join us for an unforgettable experience discovering cold water reefs, kelp forests, and shimmering shoals of fish.
During this 3-hour tour, you’ll get a comprehensive introduction to snorkelling along Argyll’s stunning coastline. Our knowledgeable guides will choose the best snorkel sites based on your abilities and the day’s conditions, often around the beautiful Ganavan area. You’ll have the chance to explore cold water reefs, kelp forests, and seagrass meadows, learning about the diverse marine life from our expert guides. Expect to see colourful macro life and shimmering shoals of fish, all while being responsibly guided by a marine biologist.
You’ll be emailed the meeting location before your booked date. Upon arrival, your instructor will provide and guide you through your snorkelling equipment. After changing into wetsuits, we’ll spend up to 90 minutes in the water, though you can choose your preferred duration. Once out, dry off, enjoy a hot chocolate, and discuss the amazing marine life you encountered.
We run sessions with a minimum of 4 and a maximum of 6 participants per guide/instructor. Please book your preferred date, and we will confirm closer to the time if any adjustments are needed to meet participant numbers.
Snorkelling equipment hire is available but not included. If you prefer to bring your own gear, ensure it is suitable for temperate waters. Please review the hire gear page and size chart before booking.
Our snorkelling tours are based in Oban, a charming coastal town on the west coast of Scotland. We explore various snorkel sites along the North Argyll Snorkel Trail, with locations handpicked to match your experience level and weather conditions. Most tours take place around Ganavan Bay, a few miles from Oban town.
This tour is suitable for those aged 8 and above who are comfortable swimming at least 100 metres unaided in open water.
We are passionate about marine conservation and providing exceptional snorkelling experiences. Our expert guides, consisting of marine biologists and professional divers, ensure a safe, educational, and enjoyable adventure. We explore the best snorkel sites around Oban, offering diverse and vibrant underwater scenery. Adhering to a strict code of conduct, we minimise our environmental impact and contribute to marine science. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced snorkeler, we tailor the tour to match your skill level and interests. We also provide high-quality snorkelling equipment and wetsuits to keep you comfortable in the water, regardless of the season.
Book your snorkelling adventure with Basking Shark Scotland today and dive into an unforgettable marine exploration!
Yes – our minimum age is 8 years old. All under 16s must be accompanied by a parent/ guardian. Our tours are adventurous with long days at sea and are not suitable for young children.
Private charters are available for families with younger children. Contact us for more info.
For those wanting to snorkel on the tour, we advise that you should be able to swim 100m comfortably in open water, along with general fitness to enable boarding a boat via a ladder.
In Coll, due to fluctuating tide levels, we may have to use a vertical pier ladder to board the vessel.
On certain tours, we use a small dinghy to transfer from the boat to shore – the terrain can be very rocky and rough with no structured pier/ pontoon. You will need to be able to get on and off the dinghy. Our guides will be there with you.
Anyone with a serious pre-existing medical condition should consult their GP before booking any of our trips.
All participants are required to complete a Declaration of Medical Fitness for Snorkelling form (under 18s need this countersigned by a parent/ guardian).
We welcome everyone on board – if you have accessibility concerns please get in touch with us.
No qualifications are necessary to come on our trips. All interactions are snorkel based so no scuba qualifications are required.
Snorkel experience is not required but would be advantageous in order to get the best from the trip. The more confident you are the better.
You must be able to swim at least 100m in open water unaided.
The weather can be changeable in Scotland, so we advise you to be adequately prepared. At sea, we are much more exposed and you’ll feel much colder than on land. We advise you to bring plenty of clothes to keep you warm.
Water temperature over the season ranges from 10-16 degrees and we have a range of equipment that will keep you warm. Our rental gear is of high quality and with adequate preparation you will be comfortable in the water.
Essential:
Optional
YES!
Please bring lots of food and snacks – it is a high energy experience and you will eat more than usual. Food is not provided and there are no options to get more food once you have started your tour.
Oban has been referred to as the ‘Gateway to the Isles’ as from here you can explore the Hebrides by ferry. Oban itself offers an abundance of adventure with epic hiking, great food and water sports. It can be very busy over the summer as it is a popular tourist destination so make sure to book your stay ahead of time.
There are many independently owned guesthouses and B&Bs, one we would recommend is Glenroy Guesthouse.
For a more luxury option you can check out The Perle.
Kintaline house a very nice self catering option, 10 minute drive from marina and close to Tralee beach.
For those joining our Oban tours the boat departs from the pontoon on the Oban waterfront next to the North Pier.
We recommend staying in the town centre as this is where you will find most restaurants, bars and beaches! Look for accommodation that offers parking as the summer in Oban is busy.
About the centre
Oban, Scotland
We partner with Rewilding Britain to help protect our natural spaces for future adventures.
All centres are vetted for safety and quality. Your adventure is in good hands with adventuro.
Operated by Basking Shark Scotland, a partner of adventuro.
