Churchill Barrier No. 2 in the Orkney Islands features a cluster of WWII blockships, including the Lycia and the Emerald Wings, which serve as artificial reefs. These wrecks are shallow, with parts often visible above the surface, making the site suitable for beginners and highly rated for snorkelling. Divers can expect depths ranging from 1 to 12 metres, with an average of 7 metres. Access is via the shore, with parking available nearby. Conditions vary, with visibility typically between 10 and 30 metres. Hazards include cold water, surge, and potential for low visibility. A typical dive lasts 60 minutes.

The James Barrie is a shallow reef dive located within the Scapa Flow Wrecks area of the Orkney Isles. Accessible by boat, this site is suitable for newly certified divers. Divers can expect depths to remain minimal, with visibility ranging from 10 to 30 metres. A moderate current is typically present, providing some movement throughout the dive. Due to water temperatures ranging between 7 and 13 degrees Celsius, a drysuit or a thick wetsuit is essential regardless of the season. Local conditions should be monitored closely as visibility can be variable. Always confirm boat charter availability in the Orkney Isles before planning your visit.

Waulkmill Bay offers a shallow, sandy-bottomed snorkelling experience within the Scapa Flow Wrecks area. The site is suitable for beginners, with depths ranging from 1 to 5 metres and an average of 3 metres. Snorkellers can expect mild currents and visibility between 10 and 25 metres. The habitat consists of seagrass, which supports a variety of temperate marine life and invertebrates typical of the region. Access is via the shore, and the site features parking and toilets. Due to the water temperatures, which range from 7 to 13 degrees Celsius, appropriate thermal protection is necessary. Be aware of cold water and surf conditions when planning your visit.

Barrel of Butter is a combined natural and artificial reef located within the Scapa Flow Wrecks area. The site sits at depths between 10 and 20 metres, with an average depth of 15 metres. Divers should expect visibility ranging from 5 to 10 metres and water temperatures between 8 and 13 degrees Celsius, making a drysuit the practical choice. While currents at the site are generally mild, strong currents can develop in the surrounding Orcadian waters. Access is by boat, and divers must be aware of potential surf and sharp rocks in shallow areas. This site is suitable for intermediate divers who should plan their dives around slack water.

SMS Cöln is a German light cruiser scuttled in 1919, resting upright on the seabed in Scapa Flow. The wreck remains largely intact, offering divers the opportunity to explore recognisable deck features, gun emplacements, and the hull structure. Depths range from 20 to 36 metres, with an average of 30 metres. Access is by boat only. Conditions include mild currents and visibility between 5 and 20 metres. Due to water temperatures of 8 to 13C, drysuits are recommended year-round. Divers should be prepared for cold water and low visibility, and exercise caution when navigating internal wreck structures. Guided tours are available through local operators.

The SMS Dresden is a scuttled German Imperial Navy cruiser located in Scapa Flow. The wreck lies at depths ranging from 25 to 38 metres, with an average depth of 32 metres. Divers can explore the exterior of the vessel, which features encrusting marine growth. Access is by boat only, situated 1000 metres from the shore. Conditions include moderate currents and visibility typically between 12 and 20 metres. Water temperatures range from 8 to 13 degrees Celsius, making a drysuit and thermal underlayer essential. Due to the depth and potential for entanglement, this site is suitable for intermediate divers. Air fills are available locally.

SMS König is a scuttled German battleship located in Scapa Flow. The wreck sits upright on the seabed, with the main deck at approximately 16 metres and the hull reaching 42 metres. This site is suited for advanced divers capable of navigating large steel structures. Access is by boat only, and dives typically last 30 minutes. Conditions include moderate currents and visibility ranging from 5 to 20 metres. Water temperatures are cold, between 8 and 13 degrees Celsius, making drysuit diving essential. Divers should be aware of hazards including boat traffic and entanglement risks. Slack water is the recommended window for diving, and coordination with a charter skipper is necessary.

SMS Kronprinz Wilhelm is a German High Seas Fleet battleship resting upright in Scapa Flow. The wreck spans depths from 12 to 40 metres, with an average depth of 30 metres. Divers can explore the main structure, including massive gun turrets and intact hull plating. The site is accessible only by boat, located 1200 metres from shore. Conditions feature mild currents and visibility between 10 and 20 metres. Due to the cold water temperatures of 8 to 13 degrees Celsius and potential overhead environments, a drysuit and wreck certification are recommended. Divers should be aware of entanglement hazards and the deep nature of the site.