ELLIE MAY - Scapa Flow, Orkney

The *Ellie May* might be small, but we think she packs a proper punch, especially if you’re into the historical angle of Scapa Flow beyond just the big German fleet. We remember the distinct chill as we descended, a reminder that even in summer, Orkney’s waters demand good thermal protection. This isn’t a sprawling battleship; it’s a compact fishing vessel, found in 2007 with a tragic story attached, resting upright and remarkably intact at 31 metres. What strikes you first is how her modest size allows for an intimate exploration. You can properly circle her, peer into the wheelhouse, and imagine the working life she once led. Shoals of saithe often swirl around the mast, catching the available light, and the metalwork itself has become a canvas for plumose anemones and dead man’s fingers. We love how the story of a modern wreck contrasts with the wartime giants nearby, offering a different, more poignant narrative. Dive this one when the weather's a bit blustery up top, as Scapa Flow offers some decent shelter, and you'll often find the visibility here surprisingly clear for a sandy seabed.

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
57.658466, -3.850183
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
31m

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 ELLIE MAY

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 ELLIE MAY

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