Cromarty Firth

The Cromarty Firth is an arm of the Moray Firth in the Scottish Highlands. It stretches inland for 30 kilometres from its entrance between two steep headlands called the Sutors. The southern shore is formed by the Black Isle peninsula. The firth receives several rivers, including the Conon and the Peffery. Good views can be taken from the Sutors or Cnoc Fyrish. The firth is a Special Protection Area for wildlife. It is home to bottlenose dolphins, seals and seasonal minke whales. Occasional visitors include humpback whales and basking sharks. Invergordon once served as a major Royal Navy base. Remnants of wartime operations remain near Evanton and Alness. The firth supports oil and renewable energy industries at Nigg Energy Park. Cruise ships, oil processing and bulk cargo facilities line its shores. A four-car ferry runs between Cromarty and Nigg in summer. The A9 road crosses the firth on a bridge near Ardullie.