DROMARA - Scapa Flow, Orkney

Forget depth, Dromara is all about atmosphere and history, right on the waterline. We love a good shallow dive, and this wreck, broken on the shore, delivers a truly unique experience. It’s barely submerged, sometimes even exposed at low tide, making it perfect for snorkelers or new divers wanting to get up close to a piece of Scapa Flow’s story without the pressure of depth. You’ll spend your time peering into the triple expansion engine, its gears and pistons still surprisingly intact. The single boiler is a major feature too, a rusty monolith in the shallows. The stern section is the most interesting part, with the propeller shaft leading back towards the propeller itself, often draped in kelp. Crabs scuttle in the shadows, and small blennies dart between the rivet holes. Our favourite time to visit is on a calm, bright day; the sunlight filtering through the ripples really brings the metalwork to life, making the rust glow a deep orange. Just be mindful of the currents, even in the shallows they can be surprisingly persistent. It’s not about seeing huge sharks here, it’s about touching history, feeling the cold steel, and imagining the final moments of that journey from Londonderry.

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
58.422690, -3.079052
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
2m

Marine Protected Area: Long Berry 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 DROMARA

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 DROMARA

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 typical depth range for diving at DROMARA?
The DROMARA wreck offers a very shallow dive experience, with a typical depth of just 2 meters. This makes it accessible for divers looking for a unique, shallow wreck exploration within Scapa Flow.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at DROMARA?
Divers at DROMARA will primarily explore the remains of a steam ship vessel, built in 1921 and sunk on February 14, 1941. This 55.2m x 9.4m wreck features one boiler, a triple expansion engine, and a single shaft, offering fascinating structural elements to observe. While specific marine life data is not provided, wrecks like DROMARA often become artificial reefs, attracting various local species over time; you can learn more about general marine life in our wildlife database.
How challenging is diving at DROMARA for different skill levels?
Diving at DROMARA is classified as having an intermediate difficulty. Additionally, it is categorized as a "Dangerous wreck," indicating that while the depth is shallow, the wreck itself may present specific hazards or require careful navigation due to its structure and condition. Divers should possess adequate experience and training for wreck environments.
What is the best time of year to dive DROMARA for optimal conditions?
Specific data regarding the best time of year for optimal diving conditions at DROMARA is not provided in our current records. We recommend consulting local dive centers in Scapa Flow for up-to-date information on seasonal conditions and visibility. For general guidance on dive planning, you can visit our when to dive section.
What diving certifications are required or recommended to dive at DROMARA?
While specific certification requirements for DROMARA are not explicitly stated, its classification as an intermediate difficulty and a "Dangerous wreck" suggests that divers should have at least an Advanced Open Water certification or specialized wreck diving training. Experience in cold water or limited visibility conditions, common in United Kingdom diving, would also be highly beneficial.
What are the typical currents and water conditions like at the DROMARA dive site?
Our current data does not provide specific details on the typical currents or water conditions at the DROMARA dive site. As conditions can vary significantly, especially in areas like Scapa Flow, it is always best to check with local dive operators immediately prior to your dive for the most current information.