ALABAMA - Scapa Flow, Orkney

The *Alabama*, just shy of 115 metres long, is one of Scapa Flow's shallower giants, lying on her port side at a friendly 12 metres. This isn't just a jumble of twisted metal; you get a real sense of her scale here. We love exploring the stern, especially around the massive prop and rudder. The boilers are still very much in place, impressive even after all these years, and a swim-through takes you past the engine room, a tight but rewarding squeeze. What makes the *Alabama* a standout is how accessible she is, even for newer wreck divers. Visibility can be superb, letting you appreciate the sheer length of her hull, now a vibrant canvas of plumose anemones, dead man's fingers, and kelp. Look for the wolfish that often lurk in the shadowed nooks and crannies. We’d suggest diving this one on a slack tide, giving you ample time to really pick through the details without fighting a current. It’s a proper Scapa wreck, just without the deep commitments, perfect for an afternoon exploration.

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
58.197285, -6.386383
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
12m

Wreck History - ALABAMA

Year Sunk
1904
Vessel Type
cargo ship
Cause
grounding

While Scapa Flow is world-famous for the scuttled German High Seas Fleet from World War I, it holds many other fascinating wrecks, including the much older Danish steamship, the Alabama. Built in Glasgow in 1899, this cargo vessel met its end on New Year's Eve, 1904. Caught in a fierce storm, it ran aground on the shores of the island of Burray.

The Alabama was salvaged for a time but eventually abandoned to the elements, slipping beneath the waves. Today, its scattered remains lie in just 12 meters of water, making it one of the most accessible and enjoyable shallow dives in Orkney. It's a perfect dive for beginners or a relaxing second dive of the day. Divers can easily explore the ship's impressive triple-expansion engine and two large boilers, which stand proud of the seabed and are often surrounded by kelp forests and curious fish.

Marine Protected Area: Tong Saltings

Best Time to Dive in Scapa Flow, Orkney

The warmest water temperatures in Scapa Flow, Orkney occur in January, averaging 8.4°C. The coolest conditions are in December at 8.4°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 8.4°C (air: 5.5°C)
  • February: 8.4°C (air: 5.3°C)
  • March: 8.4°C (air: 5.9°C)
  • April: 8.4°C (air: 6.8°C)
  • May: 8.4°C (air: 9.7°C)
  • June: 8.4°C (air: 12.4°C)
  • July: 8.4°C (air: 13.2°C)
  • August: 8.4°C (air: 13.7°C)
  • September: 8.4°C (air: 12.7°C)
  • October: 8.4°C (air: 10.2°C)
  • November: 8.4°C (air: 8.0°C)
  • December: 8.4°C (air: 5.8°C)

Nearby Dive Sites in Scapa Flow, Orkney

Nearest Dive Centres to ALABAMA

Marine Life in Scapa Flow, Orkney

Home to 155 recorded species including 63 reef fish, 17 whales & dolphins, 12 sharks & rays, 11 crabs & lobsters, 11 other, 10 seagrass & algae.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for ALABAMA

Based on average water temperature of 8.4°C.

  • Drysuit - water at 8°C demands a drysuit with thermal undergarments
  • Hood & Gloves (7mm+) - critical to prevent heat loss
  • Mask - essential for every dive
  • Fins
  • BCD - buoyancy compensator
  • Regulator - your most safety-critical piece of gear
  • Dive Computer - tracks depth, time, and NDL
  • Surface Marker Buoy (SMB) - essential for boat pickups
  • Dive Torch - useful for crevices and colour at depth
  • Underwater Camera - capture your diving memories

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the typical depths of popular dive sites in Alabama, and are there options for both shallow and deep diving?
The data provided specifically refers to the wreck dive site named ALABAMA, located in Scapa Flow, United Kingdom, not the US state. This particular wreck is a relatively shallow dive, with a depth of 12m. As such, it offers a shallow diving experience rather than options for deep diving.
What kind of marine life and underwater attractions can divers expect to see when scuba diving in Alabama?
When diving the ALABAMA wreck in Scapa Flow, the primary attraction is the historical steam ship vessel itself. Divers can explore its structure, including the two boilers and triple expansion engine of 353 HP. The wreck, built in 1899 and sunk in 1904, measures an impressive 114.3m x 15.4m, offering a fascinating glimpse into maritime history.
How challenging is scuba diving in Alabama, and are there dive sites suitable for beginner, intermediate, and advanced divers?
Diving the ALABAMA wreck in Scapa Flow is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive. While the depth is shallow at 12m, its classification as a 'Dangerous wreck' suggests that divers should possess adequate experience and training for wreck penetration or navigating complex structures. This specific site is best suited for intermediate divers.
What is the best time of year to go scuba diving in Alabama for optimal conditions and visibility?
Information regarding the best time of year for optimal conditions and visibility for the ALABAMA wreck in Scapa Flow is not available in the provided data context. For general guidance on dive conditions, you might consult our When to Dive resource.
What scuba diving certifications are required to explore the various dive sites in Alabama, especially for wreck diving?
To explore the ALABAMA wreck in Scapa Flow, which is classified as an intermediate and 'Dangerous wreck', divers should hold at least an intermediate-level certification. Given its nature as a wreck, specialized wreck diving certifications are highly recommended to safely navigate and explore the vessel's interior and structure. Always dive within the limits of your training and experience.
What are the typical underwater visibility and current conditions divers might encounter at Alabama's dive sites?
The provided data context for the ALABAMA wreck in Scapa Flow does not include specific details on typical underwater visibility or current conditions. Divers planning to visit this site should consult local dive operators for the most up-to-date information on prevailing conditions.