Chasing Whirlpools // Gulf of Corryvrecken

The Gulf of Corryvrecken is a narrow channel between the isles of Jura and Scarba. Strong Atlantic currents and unusual underwater topography conspire to produce a particularly intense tidal race in the Corryvreckan channel. As the flood tide enters the narrow area between the two islands it speeds up 10 mph and meets a variety of seabed features including a deep hole and a rising pinnacle. These features combine to create whirlpools, standing waves and a variety of other surface effects.