A lifeboat crew were joined by a “majestic” pod of Orca during a training exercise in Orkney.
RNLI Longhope was carrying out a training session in Scapa Flow on Sunday morning when the surprise encounter took place.
The crew were carrying out regular training exercises that are key in the life-saving work they do when approximately six Orca popped up alongside their boat, Helen Comrie.
They were just off the coast of St Margaret’s Hope when the marine mammals treated them to a “fantastic and prolonged” display.
SuppliedThe Orca, who were from the 65 pod, and included Busta the bull and a calf, who are regular visitors to the Orkney Islands.
Trainee navigator Alan Mackinnon spoke about the “amazing” encounter and said it was privilege to see the orcas up close.
Supplied“There were about six Orca including a calf and a bull,” he said, “They were swimming around and under the boat, tail slapping and jumping in the air.
“They gave us a brilliant acrobatic display.
“To see these majestic creatures up close, and in their natural environment, was an absolute privilege and an experience that I will never forget.”
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