BEATRIX FERNANDE - Scapa Flow, Orkney

The Beatrix Fernande, a trawler that ran aground in 1955, sits broken up on the rocks near More Head. It’s a shallow dive, barely breaking the surface, which makes it an interesting snorkel or a very relaxed shore dive, if you don't mind the chill. What's left of the hull is largely flattened and scattered, but it’s been well-colonised by local marine life. We’ve seen small pollack darting through the rusted plates and plenty of crabs tucked into the crevices. It’s not a deep penetration wreck by any means, but for a calm day and an easy explore, it offers a glimpse into Scapa Flow's less dramatic, but still fascinating, history.

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
57.675000, -2.366667
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
0m

Marine Protected Area: Gamrie and Pennan Coast

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 BEATRIX FERNANDE

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 BEATRIX FERNANDE

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 is the typical diving depth at the Beatrix Fernande dive site?
The Beatrix Fernande dive site is listed with a typical diving depth of 0m. This indicates the wreck, a trawler vessel, is extremely shallow, likely at the surface or just below it, as it ran aground on rocks at More Head. Divers can explore this wreck which shows portions of its hull or superstructure.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at Beatrix Fernande?
At the Beatrix Fernande dive site, divers can expect to explore the remains of a trawler vessel that sank on December 15, 1955. The primary underwater feature is this wreck, which is aground on rocks at More Head and still shows portions of its hull or superstructure. While specific marine life is not detailed in the provided data, wrecks often become artificial reefs attracting various species over time.
How challenging is the Beatrix Fernande dive site for beginner and experienced divers?
The Beatrix Fernande dive site is classified with an intermediate difficulty level. This suggests it is suitable for divers with some experience beyond basic certification, who are comfortable with potential conditions or specific wreck diving challenges. While experienced divers will find it manageable, beginners might find it more challenging and should consider gaining more experience before attempting this site.
What is the best time of year or season to dive at Beatrix Fernande for optimal conditions?
Information regarding the best time of year or season for optimal diving conditions at the Beatrix Fernande dive site is not provided in the available data. Divers interested in general guidance on seasonal diving should consult our When to Dive section for broader insights.
What diving certifications are required or recommended to dive at Beatrix Fernande?
Given the Beatrix Fernande dive site is rated as intermediate difficulty, an Open Water Diver certification is likely a minimum, but an Advanced Open Water Diver certification or equivalent is highly recommended. For exploring the wreck of the trawler vessel, specialized training like a Wreck Diver certification could also be beneficial to enhance safety and enjoyment.
What are the typical current conditions and visibility like at the Beatrix Fernande dive site?
The available data for the Beatrix Fernande dive site does not include specific details on typical current conditions or visibility. Divers planning to visit this wreck site should consult local dive operators for the most up-to-date information on these environmental factors.