What causes the Corryvreckan whirlpool?
The Gulf of Corryvreckan has giant rock pinnacle under the sea, which rises up to just 95 feet below the surface. It’s this obstruction that causes the whirlpool. Water is forced upward when it hits against the rock, causing huge, swirling waves.
Where does the name Corryvreckan come from?
The name ‘Corryvreckan’ probably derives from two words ‘Coire’ which in Irish means cauldron and ‘Breccán’ or ‘Breacan’, which is taken to be a proper noun i.e. the name of an individual called Breccán. Although this has also been translated as ‘speckled’ from the adjective brecc ‘spotted, speckled’ etc.
How deep is the Corryvreckan whirlpool?
70 to 29 m
The Corryvreckan is the third largest whirlpool in the world, and is on the northern side of the gulf, surrounding a pyramid-shaped basalt pinnacle that rises from depths of 70 to 29 m (230 to 95 ft) at its rounded top.
Where is the Gulf of Corryvreckan?
Scotland
The Gulf of Corryvreckan is a narrow strait between the islands of Jura and Scarba in Argyll, off the west coast of mainland Scotland. It’s developed a fame for its strong tidal currents and standing waves, and of course, the whirlpool which forms at the right state of tide.
What is the biggest whirlpool in the world?
The World’s Largest Whirlpools
- Corryvreckan. The Gulf of Corryvreckan is a strait located between Jura and Scarba islands, Scotland.
- Naruto Whirlpools.
- Old Sow.
- Skookumchuck Narrows.
- Moskstraumen.
- Saltstraumen.
How big do Maelstroms get?
Old Sow maelstroms that form between the bays of Fundy and Passamaquoddy have a diameter of about 250 feet, swell up to 20 feet high, and reach speeds of 17.15 mph.
Can you see corryvreckan Whirlpool from land?
Although the Corryvreckan is still officially unnavigable, competent local captains run boat trips there these days. You can alternatively see it from land by driving to the end of the road (one hour from the hotel) and walking seven miles each way.
How long does a whirlpool last?
The scientists also found the Great Whirl was highly variable in terms of when it forms and how long it lasts. However, on average, it lasts for 198 days, considerably longer than previous estimates of 166 and 140 days.
Where is the Gulf of Corryvreckan in Scotland?
The Gulf of Corryvreckan is a narrow strait between the islands of Jura and Scarba, in Argyll and Bute, off the west coast of mainland Scotland. It is famous for its strong tidal currents and standing waves.
Which is the best way to get to Corryvreckan?
The most obvious one being a boat. There are a few choices here. You can get in touch with Venture West, they run regular trips from Crinan on the mainland to Corryvreckan. They also offer sea taxi pickup and drop off at various points on Jura upon request.
How big are the waves in the Gulf of Corryvreckan?
Flood tides and inflow from the Firth of Lorne to the west can drive the waters of Corryvreckan to waves of more than 30 ft (9 m), and the roar of the resulting maelstrom can be heard 10 mi (16 km) away.
Is there a road from Jura to Corryvreckan?
Visiting Corryvreckan is a must, trust me. Although Corryvreckan is in the north of Jura it can still be quite an undertaking to visit it as there is no road going there.