The Western Isles have experienced their most extreme tides in almost 20 years after rare astronomical events coincided at the weekend.
Abnormal high tides created faster surges as the sea rushed into sea lochs and through narrow channels around islands.
Six hours later, the sea receded further out than usual, affecting many ferry sailings on the west coast due to shallow water in harbours.
The MV Finlaggan ran about 70 minutes late on the Skye-
No lunchtime sailings will take place under a restricted timetable on the Sound of Harris route until Wednesday due to the tidal conditions. Since last week, the MV Loch Portain has been operating an amended timetable because the tide was too low to berth safely at the slipway.
Stronger tidal forces peaked on Saturday due to the top of a 18.6 year tidal cycle in 2015 as the earth, moon and sun came into alignment, creating extra gravitational pull on the oceans.
Stornoway tides ebbed down to zero at chart datum -
The gravitational pull of the ocean was increased due to a “supermoon” effect with the Moon was at its closest point to Earth.
The Sun and the Moon were also directly overhead at the equator at the weekend.
Professor Kevin Horsburgh of the National Oceanography Centre said: “The 18.6 year cycle is a fascinating result of heavenly motions.”
“Very large spring tides occur when these astronomical factors coincide. In some places, these extreme tidal conditions can cause water levels to be 0.5 metre higher than a normal spring tide.”
Highest tides for nearly 20 years
23 March 2015