CONSTANT STAR - Scapa Flow, Orkney

The Constant Star sits in Scapa Flow, and while it's not one of the German High Seas Fleet wrecks, it’s still a fantastic dive. This fishing vessel ran aground in high winds back in '87, and she’s now well-colonised. We love how accessible she is, mostly sitting in shallow water, meaning longer bottom times even for newer divers. The bow section is the most intact part, poking out of the water at low tide – a good visual marker to find the site. Descending, you’ll find the wheelhouse and accommodation areas collapsed, but the hull frames provide plenty of structure for exploration. Schools of coalfish dart through the interior, and we’ve often spotted lobsters tucked into the debris. Look closely for nudibranchs on the encrusting sponges and anemones. It’s a classic Scapa dive, just a bit shallower and less intimidating than some of the bigger ships, making it perfect for a relaxed afternoon.

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
57.479065, -1.767517
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
0m

Marine Protected Area: Bullers of Buchan 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 CONSTANT STAR

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 CONSTANT STAR

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