B 98 - Scapa Flow, Orkney

The B 98, a German destroyer, offers a different kind of Scapa Flow dive. It’s sitting in just two meters of water, so you’re spending your time freediving or even just snorkeling over the remains. What’s left of the hull is spread out, with plenty of metalwork providing shelter for small crabs and blennies. We've seen some surprisingly colourful anemones here, too, clinging to the rust. It’s a nice change of pace if you want to experience a bit of Scapa’s history without committing to a deep dive. Perfect for a calm surface interval, or if you're keen on photography in good light.

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
59.282616, -2.447950
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
2m

Marine Protected Area: Northwall

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 B 98

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 B 98

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

How deep is the B 98 (USS Suitland) dive site in Pensacola?
The B 98 dive site is located in Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, not Pensacola. This fascinating wreck, a destroyer vessel, rests at a shallow depth of 2m. It offers a unique opportunity to explore a piece of history in the waters of Scapa Flow.
What marine life and wreck features can divers expect to see on the B 98 (USS Suitland) wreck?
Divers exploring the B 98 wreck can expect to see the remains of a destroyer vessel, classified as a wreck showing any portion of its hull or superstructure. This impressive wreck measures 97.8m in length and 9.4m in width, offering substantial features to explore. While specific marine life details are not provided in our current data, wrecks often attract various local species.
What is the difficulty level for diving the B 98 (USS Suitland) wreck, and is it suitable for advanced divers?
The B 98 wreck is classified with an intermediate difficulty level. This makes it a suitable dive for divers with some experience, and certainly for advanced divers looking to explore a historical wreck. Its shallow depth of 2m also contributes to its accessibility.
When is the best time of year to dive the B 98 (USS Suitland) wreck for optimal conditions?
Our current data for the B 98 wreck does not specify the best time of year for optimal diving conditions. For general guidance on seasonal diving, you might consult our When to Dive resource. We recommend checking local dive operators for up-to-date information on conditions in Scapa Flow.
What scuba diving certifications are required or highly recommended for diving the B 98 (USS Suitland) wreck?
Given the B 98 wreck's intermediate difficulty level, an Open Water Diver certification is generally sufficient for this dive. However, an Advanced Open Water certification is highly recommended for enhanced comfort and skill, especially when exploring historical wrecks. Always ensure you are comfortable with the conditions and your personal diving abilities.
What are the typical current and visibility conditions at the B 98 (USS Suitland) dive site?
Our available data for the B 98 dive site does not include specific details on typical current or visibility conditions. Conditions in Scapa Flow can vary, so it's always best to consult with local dive centers or guides before planning your dive. They can provide the most current information for a safe and enjoyable experience.