4m
    Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom
    Masonshaugh

    ESPIRANS

    Good diving all year

    Protected Area

    Masonshaugh

    Why dive here

    With 140+ marine species recorded in the area - including blue whales, dolphins, dwarf minke whales, humpback whales and ocean sunfish (mola mola) - ESPIRANS offers some of Scapa Flow, Orkney's richest wreck diving. Water ranges 8-14°C, warmest July, August, September.

    Best timeYear-round
    WetsuitA drysuit
    Marine lifeBlue Whales, Dolphins, Dwarf Minke Whales, Humpback Whales and Ocean Sunfish (Mola Mola) · 140+ species recorded
    Water8-14°C · warmest July, August, September
    CharacterWreck dive · max 4m
    StandoutRich in charismatic marine life

    The Espirans, a fishing vessel, sits in Scapa Flow’s shallow expanse, a dark silhouette against the often moody Orkney sky. We love this site for its sheer accessibility, a mere four-metre depth making it a fantastic option for longer dives or even a gentle introduction to wreck diving. The story of her demise is palpable here: a fire, an abandonment, then a slow sink at anchor. You can really feel the history. What you'll find is a surprisingly intact wreck, considering her fiery end. The bow points west, and you can still discern the wheelhouse, now more a skeleton of its former self, providing intriguing swim-throughs if you're careful. The Espirans is less about grand structure and more about the delicate ecosystems that have claimed her. Anemones bloom like alien flowers, nudibranchs graze on the metalwork, and we often spot butterfish darting in and out of the crevices. It’s an ideal spot for macro enthusiasts or divers looking for a relaxed exploration of a wreck with a real narrative. We'd suggest going at high slack tide for the best visibility, though even on a murkier day, the Espirans holds a quiet charm.

    Typical ESPIRANS Dive Profile

    5mSafety Stop0m4m max~60 min estimated bottom time

    Illustrative profile based on site depth and type. Actual dive profiles vary - always follow your dive computer and training.

    Safety Notes

    Wreck site - avoid penetration without wreck diving certification. Watch for sharp metal and entanglement hazards.

    Cold water this month (avg 13°C). Drysuit or thick wetsuit (7mm+) recommended.

    Today06:4017:2310h 44m daylightGolden hour 16:30

    Reviews for ESPIRANS

    Sign in to write a review

    Conditions

    Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for ESPIRANS

    ESPIRANS Ocean Conditions

    Monthly averages for ESPIRANS, sourced from Open-Meteo marine data - nearest station: Open-Meteo marine grid (58.64, -3.16) (8km away)

    ExcellentGreatGoodFairPoor★Best monthsThis month

    October Averages

    Sea Temperature

    13°C

    55°F · Range: 11.4–13.8°C

    Air Temperature

    10°C

    50°F

    Wind Speed

    9.26 m/s

    18.0 knots

    Atmospheric Pressure

    1005.3 hPa

    Based on 4 years of monitoring data · Data sources: Open-Meteo marine data

    Plan & book

    Ways to dive Scapa Flow, Orkney, from day trips to liveaboards.

    Day trips & courses

    via GetYourGuide

    Guided dives, courses and snorkel trips with instant booking.

    Find dive trips in Scapa Flow, Orkney

    Places to stay

    via Booking.com

    Hotels and dive resorts near Scapa Flow, Orkney.

    Search stays in Scapa Flow, Orkney

    Dive insurance

    Most travel insurance excludes or limits scuba. Check what you need before you go.

    Dive insurance explained

    Partner links: we may earn a commission if you book, at no extra cost to you. How we make money

    Where to Stay near ESPIRANS

    Prices from Booking.com. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

    Back to Scapa Flow, Orkney