In length, Argyll’s unique indented coastline
exceeds that of the whole of France. The sea has since man first inhabited this
area formed the communications highway. The same is true today. Whilst there is
a limited local air service between the islands, boats continue to underpin
transportation.
Boats that ply these waters are varied and
many. Commercial traffic namely fishing boats, ferries, and small cargo boats
were once the main groups of vessels seen but with the decline in fishing and
the increase in leisure craft, sailing yachts are a far more common sight
particularly in the summer.
Improved heating systems to yachts has
extended the sailing season somewhat but it is a rare sight to see leisure
craft in the depth of winter.
Wildlife in the area is also seasonal for
many species but bottlenose dolphins Argyll are resident throughout the
year. These huge masters of the sea
gracefully swim in these seas offering displays to those who overlook or work
on the ocean. They sometime come close inshore much to the surprise of many.
Recently dolphins in Easdale Sound enchanted locals and tourists alike as they
frolicked just 50m from the shore for around 90 minutes. There were gasps from
adults and squeals of delight from children as the dolphins leaped skywards,
twisting and turning as they went. Ask the local schoolchildren. They will tell
you that dolphins in Argyll generally keep to a single group or pod and roam
the seas between Islay in the south and Ardnamurchan point to the north.
Sighting dolphins for them occurs a number of times each year as they make the
short sea crossing from their island homes to their mainland school. On every
occasion they become excited and are enthralled by the display of these
wonderful creatures.
Dolphins in Argyll tend to follow fairly
predictable routes as they forage and search for food. The west coast of Argyll
is an ideal location for dolphins. Here the food rich waters of the Gulf Stream
and the Arctic currents collide, ideal for cetaceans. Along with the bottlenose
dolphins local marine wildlife tour operators have minke whales, basking
sharks, and porpoise to show customers.
The area has both common seal and the larger Atlantic Grey Seal happily
co existing side by side. There is plenty of food for all. The west coast of
Argyll forms part of the European Special Area of conservation Firth of Lorne
and is an area which should be visited by every wildlife enthusiast.
