Welcome to the wonderful marine kingdom of the Hebridean Islands.

The Hebrides is a group of around 550 islands lying off the western coast of Scotland and covering a sea area of over 40,000 square km. See larger scale map . They are split into two main geographical areas:

1) the Outer Hebrides, also known as the Western Isles, which are made up of Lewis, Harris, and the Uists

2) the Inner Hebrides, or the Argyll islands, which include Coll and Tiree, Mull, Jura and Islay

Both of these areas contain many smaller inhabited islands and countless uninhabited islands. They are referred to collectively because of their remote location, the fact that they are islands and the way of life which has developed there as a result.

Even today some of the islands are quite difficult to access and they remain quite different from the neighbouring mainland. Gaelic was spoken across all these islands until very recently and many old customs and traditions remain.

The Hebrides is an area of outstanding natural beauty with diverse land and seascapes and abundant wildlife. The

Hebridean waters contain a rich variety of marine life.

Complex tidal streams, varied topography and the warmer waters from the Gulf Stream all contribute to make this area the most productive coastal area in the UK. It is also one of the most important habitats for whales, dolphins and porpoises in Europe. Twenty-four species – nearly a third of the world total – have been reported in this region, from the mighty blue whale to the tiny harbour porpoise.

The Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust is dedicated to the conservation of Scotland’s whales, dolphins and porpoises and the Hebridean marine environment through education

and research, whilst working within the Hebridean

communities. One of the Trust’s major aims is to promote the sustainable use of the Hebridean marine environment by working with the local communities, promoting sustainable eco-tourism and providing education, training and job opportunities.

To find out more about the marine life of the Hebrides click on a selected topic from the list.