CLIO II - Scapa Flow, Orkney

Clio II isn’t one of Scapa Flow’s blockbuster German fleet wrecks, and that’s precisely why we love it. This blockship, scuttled in 1915, rests in a mere 10 metres of water, making it a perfect second dive or a relaxed day out when the weather’s a bit frisky. You won't find an intact hull here; the Clio is a glorious jumble of plates, ribs, and machinery spread across the seabed. Dropping down, the first thing you notice is the sheer volume of life. The metalwork is completely encrusted with plumose anemones, their white tentacles swaying gently in the subtle flow. Shoals of saithe dart through the gaps, curious but always keeping their distance. We particularly enjoy poking around the exposed boiler, which rises a couple of metres from the bottom, a vibrant reef in its own right. Look for the nudibranchs grazing on the hydroids, tiny pops of colour against the rusted steel. This site is fantastic for photographers or those who just want to potter about, enjoying the gentle pace and surprising amount of biodiversity. It’s a gentle reminder that even the most broken wrecks can be incredibly beautiful.

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
58.878418, -2.883767
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
10m

Marine Protected Area: Copinsay

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 CLIO II

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 CLIO II

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