ESPIRANS - Scapa Flow, Orkney

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.

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
57.694157, -3.509800
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
4m

Marine Protected Area: Masonshaugh

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 ESPIRANS

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 ESPIRANS

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