CHARLES GOODANEW - Scapa Flow, Orkney

The *Charles Goodanew* sits deep in Scapa Flow, a real diver's wreck if ever there was one. We love this site for its character. She’s a steamship, sunk in 1917, now resting on her starboard side at 47 metres, and that depth means you’ll want to be on trimix or have solid decompression skills. Dropping down, the bow is often the first thing you pick out of the gloom, silhouetted against the lighter water above. You’ll find her largely intact, a testament to the cold, calm Scapa waters. We usually start our exploration around the stern, where the triple-expansion engine still stands proud. It's heavily encrusted, but the sheer scale of the machinery is impressive. You can poke your head into the hold openings, though penetration here is tight and silty – not for the inexperienced. Look out for the resident conger eels, they’re often tucked into the darker recesses, watching you with that unblinking stare. This wreck feels like history, a quiet, solemn place where time has slowed to a crawl, covered in white plumose anemones and dead man’s fingers. It’s a dive for those who appreciate maritime history and enjoy the challenges of deep, cold water wreck exploration.

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
57.674744, -1.776701
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
47m

Marine Protected Area: Loch of Strathbeg

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 CHARLES GOODANEW

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 CHARLES GOODANEW

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 can divers go at the Goodenough Spring dive site?
Divers can explore the CHARLES GOODANEW wreck, which reaches a maximum depth of 47 meters. This depth makes it an exciting dive for those with appropriate training and experience in deep diving.
What unique geological formations and features can be seen when diving Goodenough Spring?
The CHARLES GOODANEW is a fascinating steam ship vessel, not a site known for geological formations. Divers can explore the remains of this 59.4m x 9.1m wreck, including its one boiler and triple expansion engine. It offers a unique glimpse into maritime history rather than natural geological features.
What is the difficulty level for diving Goodenough Spring, and is it suitable for all divers?
Diving the CHARLES GOODANEW wreck is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive. Due to its depth of 47 meters and classification as a "Dangerous wreck," it is not suitable for all divers, particularly beginners. Divers should possess the necessary experience and certifications for intermediate wreck diving.
What is the best time of year to dive Goodenough Spring for optimal conditions?
The provided data for the CHARLES GOODANEW wreck does not specify the best time of year for optimal diving conditions. For general guidance on when to dive in the United Kingdom, please consult our When to Dive section.
What specific diving certifications are required to explore Goodenough Spring?
While specific certifications are not explicitly listed, given the CHARLES GOODANEW is an intermediate difficulty wreck dive reaching 47 meters and classified as a "Dangerous wreck," advanced or specialty wreck diving certifications are highly recommended. Divers should be trained for deep diving and potentially overhead environments to safely explore this site.
What are the typical water temperatures, visibility, and currents like at the Goodenough Spring dive site?
The provided data for the CHARLES GOODANEW wreck does not include information on typical water temperatures, visibility, or currents. Divers planning to visit Scapa Flow should consult local dive operators for the most current conditions and site-specific details.