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Scapa Flow

One of the greatest wreck diving locations on Earth. Dive the scuttled WWI German High Seas Fleet in the cold, dark waters of Scotland.

Max Depth: 45m Location: UK & Cold Water<svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" width="1em" height="1em" viewBox="0 0 24 24" fill="none" stroke="currentColor" stroke-width="2" stroke-linecap="round" stroke-linejoin="round" class="inline-icon"><polygon points="13 2 3 14 12 14 11 22 21 10 12 10 13 2"></polygon></svg> Level: AdvancedVisibility: 5-15mWater Temp: 8-14°C
WrecksWWI HistoryCold Water

Overview

Located in the Orkney Islands off the northern coast of Scotland, Scapa Flow is a bucket-list destination for serious wreck divers. In 1919, following the end of World War I, the interned German High Seas Fleet was scuttled here by its own commander.

What you’ll see

Several of the massive battleships and light cruisers remain, including:

  • SMS Kronprinz Wilhelm (Battleship)
  • SMS Markgraf (Battleship)
  • SMS Cöln (Light Cruiser)
  • SMS Dresden (Light Cruiser)

The Dive Experience

This is not for beginners. The water is cold (usually 8°C to 12°C), visibility can be challenging, and the wrecks are deep (often sitting between 30m and 45m). You must be a certified drysuit diver, and having a Deep Diver or Technical diving certification is highly recommended.

Getting There

Most divers travel to Stromness in Orkney via ferry from the Scottish mainland. Dive operators in Stromness run daily hardboat charters out to the wrecks.

Marine Life to Spot at Scapa Flow

  • Crabs
  • Lobster
  • Conger Eels