Gairloch Tide Times

About Gairloch Tide Times

This Highland gem on the shores of Gair Loch commands stunning views across the Minch towards the Outer Hebrides. Once a thriving herring fishing port, Gairloch retains its maritime heritage through a working harbour and seafaring traditions that define the community. The dramatic coastline features rocky shores, sheltered beaches, and rugged moorland backdrop characteristic of the northwest Highlands. Today the village balances fishing heritage with modern tourism, offering excellent access to some of Scotland's most spectacular coastal scenery. Tidal currents and weather patterns here remain crucial for local fishermen and water sports enthusiasts alike.. The tide predictions shown above cover 7 days of high and low tide times, updated daily using professional-grade harmonic tidal analysis. Tide heights are displayed in metres above Chart Datum (CD), the standard reference level used in marine navigation charts.

Tidal patterns at Gairloch are driven by the gravitational forces of the Moon and Sun acting on the local ocean. The timing and height of each tide depends on the shape of the local coastline, water depth, and the position of celestial bodies relative to Earth. Like all coastal locations, Gairloch experiences a full tidal cycle approximately every 24 hours and 50 minutes.

Spring tides — which occur at new moon and full moon — produce the largest tidal ranges at Gairloch, with higher high tides and lower low tides than average. Neap tides, at the quarter moons, produce the smallest ranges. This fortnightly cycle is an important consideration for anyone planning coastal activities in the area.

What to Do at Gairloch

Gairloch is located in Highland, Scotland West.

Who Uses Tide Predictions for Gairloch?

How to Read the Gairloch Tide Chart

The tide chart above plots predicted water height (in metres) against time for Gairloch. The curved line rises to peaks (high tide) and falls to troughs (low tide). The height shown is measured above Chart Datum — a reference level set near the lowest predicted astronomical tide level for the area.

• HWHigh Water — the peak of the tide. This is when the sea is at its highest level. The exact time and height changes each day.
• LWLow Water — the trough of the tide. The sea is at its lowest level, often exposing rocks, sand, and mudflats.
• ↑Flood tide — the period when the tide is rising from low water to high water. Currents flow onshore or up estuaries during this phase.
• ↓Ebb tide — the period when the tide is falling from high water to low water. Currents flow offshore or down estuaries during this phase.

All times shown are in the local timezone for Gairloch (Europe/London). Remember that tide times advance by roughly 50 minutes each day, so always check the chart for your specific visit date.

Frequently Asked Questions — Gairloch Tides