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

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the maximum depth for diving at the CLIO II dive site?
The maximum depth for diving at the CLIO II dive site is 10 meters. This relatively shallow depth makes it accessible for many divers exploring the historic wrecks of Scapa Flow.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at CLIO II?
The CLIO II is a fascinating steam ship vessel, sunk in 1915, offering divers a unique underwater feature. As a distributed wreck measuring 70.2m x 8.7m, divers can explore its remains, including its single boiler and compound expansion engine. While specific marine life is not detailed, wrecks often become artificial reefs, attracting various local species, which you can learn more about in our wildlife database.
How difficult is the CLIO II dive site, and is it suitable for beginner divers?
The CLIO II dive site is classified as intermediate difficulty. Therefore, it is generally not recommended for absolute beginner divers without appropriate supervision or experience. Divers should possess the necessary skills and certifications for intermediate-level wreck diving to safely explore this historic site in Scapa Flow.
What is the best time of year or season to dive at CLIO II for optimal conditions?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year or season to dive at the CLIO II for optimal conditions. For general guidance on diving in the United Kingdom and Scapa Flow, you might consult our When to Dive section for broader seasonal information.
Are there any specific diving certifications required to dive at the CLIO II site?
While specific certifications are not explicitly listed, given the CLIO II dive site's intermediate difficulty, divers should hold at least an advanced open water certification or equivalent. Experience with wreck diving is also highly recommended to safely navigate the distributed remains of this historic steam ship.
What are the typical currents and water conditions like at CLIO II?
The description of the CLIO II's sinking mentions that "the tide took the ship to the E," indicating that tidal currents are a factor in this area of Scapa Flow. Divers should be prepared for potential currents, especially given the site's classification as intermediate difficulty. Specific water temperatures or visibility details are not provided in the available data.