DURHAM CASTLE - Scapa Flow, Orkney

The Durham Castle in Scapa Flow isn't one of those wrecks that gets all the glory, but we think it's one of the best for newer wreck divers or those looking for a relaxed dive. Lying upright in just 18 metres, this former mail steamer turned naval auxiliary offers a fantastic introduction to the scale of Scapa. We love finning along her intact decks, imagining her original grandeur before the mine took her in 1940. You can swim through the gaping holds, now home to a surprising amount of life – we’ve often seen big ballan wrasse darting between the frames and plumose anemones waving like tiny white flags from every surface. The light penetration at this depth is usually excellent, casting an ethereal glow through the superstructure, making for some great photo opportunities even on a cloudy day. It’s a gentle dive, generally with minimal current, allowing plenty of time to explore the intact bow and stern. This wreck is perfect for shaking off the rust or getting comfortable with overhead environments without feeling overwhelmed.

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
57.691383, -3.903083
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
18m

Marine Protected Area: Moray Firth

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 DURHAM CASTLE

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 DURHAM CASTLE

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