

Best for advanced divers, 10-45m, boat entry, moderate current.
Scapa Flow features the remains of the German High Seas Fleet, including four light cruisers and three battleships. These wrecks, which range from 24 to 45 metres in depth, offer historical features such as guns, steering wheels, boilers, anchor capstans, and bows. The site is strictly for advanced divers due to depths, moderate currents, and variable visibility between 3 and 20 metres. Access is by boat only, and a drysuit is highly recommended given the water temperatures of 8 to 13C. Species recorded around this area include orange-clubbed nudibranchs, sea stars, common sea stars, crabs, rock crabs, snails, and sea squirts.
58.86668, -3.18054
Reef hook training is not optional as some operators require it for strong currents.
Boat access from Stromness.
Recorded at this site
Depth
10-45m
Visibility
3-20m
Skill Level
Advanced
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
8-13°C
Current
Moderate
Typical Dive
60 min
Best Time
May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Species recorded around this area include orange-clubbed nudibranchs, sea stars, common sea stars, crabs, rock crabs, snails, and sea squirts.
No, this site is intended for advanced divers due to the depth of the wrecks, moderate currents, and potential for low visibility.
The wrecks lie at depths ranging from 10 to 45 metres, with an average depth of 30 metres.
Boat access is required to reach the wrecks at Scapa Flow.
Due to the significant depth of the wrecks and the advanced nature of the site, it is not suitable for snorkelling.
Diving at Scapa Flow in Kirkwall requires the following certifications: Open Water, Advanced, Wreck, Deep. Always dive within your training limits.
Yes, equipment rental is available at or near Scapa Flow in Kirkwall. Contact local dive operators for specific gear availability and prices.
A drysuit recommended is recommended for diving at Scapa Flow in Kirkwall. Water temperatures range from 8°C to 13°C.
The best months to visit Scapa Flow in Kirkwall are May, June, July, August, and September. Conditions outside these months can still be good but are less predictable.
Divers at Scapa Flow in Kirkwall should be aware of jellyfish. These encounters are generally rare and avoidable with proper awareness. Follow local safety guidance and maintain a respectful distance from all marine life.
Expect moderate currents at Scapa Flow in Kirkwall. Good buoyancy control and some drift diving experience is helpful.
Visibility at Scapa Flow in Kirkwall typically ranges from 3 metres to 20 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.