This footage was filmed and produced 17 December 2023.

Early Sunday morning saw the volunteer crew from RNLI Longhope engaged in their routine training session in Scapa Flow. To their delight, they encountered a pod of approximately six orcas off the coast of St Margaret’s Hope, Orkney. The orcas, known as the '65 pod,' included the impressive 'Busta' the bull, known as regular visitors to the Orkney Islands.

The unexpected and breathtaking display featured the orcas swimming around and under the boat, engaging in tail slapping, and showcasing impressive jumps in the air. Trainee Navigator Alan Mackinnon described the encounter as "an amazing experience" and expressed gratitude for the privilege of witnessing these majestic creatures up close in their natural environment.

The RNLI crew, typically dedicated to life-saving training exercises, was treated to an extraordinary and unforgettable moment with nature during their morning drill.