Harris and Lewis Trip 2023: A Freediving Adventure
AIDA 2 Courses in the Outer Hebrides
This year, two of our instructors were fortunate to be invited to conduct AIDA 2 freediving courses in the breathtaking setting of Lewis and Harris, an island in the Outer Hebrides.
Journey Through the Scottish Highlands
The journey was an adventure in itself, taking us through the majestic Scottish Highlands for about 12 hours, followed by a ferry crossing from Ullapool. We finally disembarked at Stornoway, the largest town in the Outer Hebrides, which would be our base for the week. Without wasting any time, we dived straight into a theory session for our freediving candidates.
The Scottish Maldives: Beaches of Lewis and Harris
Lewis and Harris are often compared to the Maldives, with their pristine white sand beaches and crystal-clear blue waters. The description didn’t disappoint!
Unique Freediving Experience
Freediving in Lewis and Harris is a one-of-a-kind experience. The island is renowned for its dramatic landscapes, clear waters, and abundant marine life. Visibility in the waters around the island can extend up to 20 meters, offering an unparalleled diving experience. The remote, serene location meant there was little boat traffic at our dive sites, with the only interruptions being the occasional curious seal.
Training Sessions with a View
We conducted static sessions in open-air hot tubs with sweeping views down to the bay, where students later performed their dynamic dives and rescue practices.
Diving from Seatrek’s Motor Cruisers
For the next few days, we dived from one of Seatrek’s motor cruisers, starting early to catch the watercolor sunrises over the water. Students progressively dived deeper, refining their technique and mastering the essential safety skills and rescues fundamental to freediving. Our students, part of the island’s close-knit community, were already comfortable in these familiar waters, many regularly engaging in spearfishing, diving, and even mermaiding. The AIDA 2 course allowed them to enhance their safety and technique, unlocking new abilities and boosting their confidence. The progress we observed during our time with them was remarkable.
Freediving buoys
Embracing Island Life
After morning dives, our students introduced us to the island’s rich history and culture. We explored numerous beaches, visited the incredible Neolithic Calanais Standing Stones, smelled the peaty fires of traditional blackhouses, explored Norse mills and whale bone arches, and drove along the coastline until we simply ran out of road.
Final Day: Scallop Diving
On our last diving day, the students invited us on their RIB to dive for scallops at a secret location. The seabed was teeming with life, with scallops the size of our outstretched hands. We collected enough for a feast and enjoyed our final island meal with pan-seared scallops, creamy pasta, greens, and local whisky.
Hand caught scallop freediving
Foraging meal
Farewell with Dolphins
Leaving the next day was bittersweet, but the ferry journey from Stornoway to Ullapool was magical, with a pod of dolphins escorting us alongside the bow, delighting everyone on board.
Conclusion
Our trip to the islands of Lewis and Harris was unforgettable, leaving us with a newfound love for Scotland’s islands. We can’t wait for our next visit.
Standing stones Lewis
