DEVOTION - Scapa Flow, Orkney

The *Devotion* isn't about depth or big pelagics. It’s a shallow, punchy little wreck, perfect for when you want a quick, easy dive between the bigger Scapa Flow giants. We love it because it’s so accessible, sitting in just 5 metres of water, meaning endless bottom time and great light penetration. You’ll find the fishing vessel largely intact, settled on its side, with the wheelhouse still recognisable, giving it real character. Head straight for the stern, where the prop is still in place, usually covered in anemones and dead man’s fingers. The real charm here is the way light dapples through the structure, illuminating schools of saithe that swirl around the deck. Look closely and you’ll spot gobies and blennies tucked into every crevice, along with the occasional inquisitive conger eel peeking out from under a plating. It’s a photographer’s dream on a sunny day, especially if you’re into macro. We’d suggest diving it at high slack for the calmest conditions, though Scapa’s currents here are usually mild anyway. It's a great warm-up dive, or a final splash before heading back to shore.

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
57.683070, -2.251638
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
5m

Marine Protected Area: Troup, Pennan and Lion's Heads

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 DEVOTION

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 DEVOTION

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