Flotta

Flotta is an inhabited island in the Orkney archipelago of Scotland. It lies in Scapa Flow, off the southeastern coast of Mainland, and forms part of the Orkney Islands Council area. The island is relatively flat and low-lying, with farmland, coastal cliffs, and several small bays and beaches. The principal village is Pierowall, situated on the eastern coast.

Flotta’s name is of Norse origin; in historical sources the island appears in connection with the Norse-influenced landscape of Orkney. Archaeological evidence indicates prehistoric and Norse occupation, with later medieval landholding patterns typical of Orkney crofts.

Towards the late 20th century Flotta became notable for the Flotta oil terminal, developed to support offshore oil production in the North Sea, particularly the Beatrice field. The terminal handles export oil and serves as a logistics base for offshore operations, contributing to the island’s economy alongside agriculture and crofting.

Community facilities on Flotta include a primary school and several local services; the island also has a harbour and a small church, as well as community groups and a hall that hosts events. The population is small, concentrated mainly in Pierowall, with a resident community that maintains traditional island life while engaging with the energy sector.

Flotta remains connected to the wider Orkney network by sea and road links to the mainland, with regular ferry services operating to and from Flotta and the Orkney mainland. The island's economy and landscape reflect the interplay of traditional crofting and modern energy infrastructure.