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Kayaker's Chilling Encounter with 25-Foot Shark in Scottish Waters
29 Aug
Summary
- Kayaker films massive shark approaching his boat in northern Scotland
- Shark estimated to be 25 feet long, likely a basking shark
- Encounter was one of the most "special" experiences for the kayaker
On August 26, 2025, a video of a kayaker's close encounter with a massive shark in the waters of northern Scotland went viral on TikTok. The footage, filmed by 29-year-old Lance Montaigue, shows the towering fin of a shark gliding toward his kayak.
Montaigue, who has gone scuba diving and snorkeled with sharks around the world, described the encounter as "one of the most special" he has experienced, as it happened in his home country of the United Kingdom. Experts have identified the shark as likely a basking shark, the world's second-largest shark species, which can grow up to 30 feet long.
Despite the shark's enormous size, Montaigue remained calm throughout the encounter, as basking sharks are filter feeders that pose no threat to humans. The shark approached Montaigue's kayak several times, with the kayaker keeping a safe distance as required by Scottish wildlife laws. Montaigue's video has captivated millions of viewers, showcasing the awe-inspiring power and curiosity of these gentle giants in the cold waters of northern Scotland.
