FAITHFUL FRIEND II - Scapa Flow, Orkney

The Faithful Friend II, a fishing vessel sunk in 2008, sits upright at a modest 14 metres. We love this wreck for its accessibility and the way marine life has utterly taken over since she settled. You’re not fighting depth here, which means more time to really poke around. Head for the wheelhouse, it’s still largely intact and home to a resident family of wrasse. Keep an eye out for curious common seals; they often make an appearance, gliding past like ghosts. Our favourite part is the stern, where the prop is still visible, encrusted with anemones and dead man's fingers. You'll find plenty of squat lobsters tucked into every crevice, and the beams of your torch will illuminate scuttling crabs. It’s a great site for newer wreck divers, or anyone who just wants a relaxed dive without the Scapa Flow currents and depths usually associated with the German High Seas Fleet. We'd suggest going at slack water, though the currents here are rarely strong enough to cause much trouble. Visibility can vary, but even on a murky day, the wreck provides enough structure to be enjoyable.

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
58.187000, -6.206666
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
14m

Marine Protected Area: Tong Saltings

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 FAITHFUL FRIEND II

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 FAITHFUL FRIEND II

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 the Faithful Friend II dive site?
The Faithful Friend II dive site offers a typical depth of 14 meters. This makes it an accessible wreck dive, suitable for divers comfortable at this depth.
What kind of marine life and underwater topography can divers expect to encounter at Faithful Friend II?
The Faithful Friend II is a fascinating fishing vessel wreck, sunk in 2008, providing a distinct underwater topography. While specific marine life details are not provided, wrecks like this 17.9m x 5.6m vessel often become thriving artificial reefs, attracting local species. Divers can explore the structure of this former trawler.
How would you rate the difficulty of diving at Faithful Friend II, and is it suitable for beginners?
Diving at the Faithful Friend II is rated as intermediate difficulty. Therefore, it is generally not recommended for absolute beginners. Divers should possess adequate experience and appropriate certifications to safely explore this site.
What is the best time of year or season to dive at Faithful Friend II for optimal conditions and visibility?
We do not have specific data regarding the best time of year or season for optimal conditions and visibility at the Faithful Friend II dive site. For general guidance on planning your dives, you might find our When to Dive section helpful.
Are there any specific scuba diving certifications required to dive at Faithful Friend II?
While specific certifications are not explicitly listed, given the intermediate difficulty rating for the Faithful Friend II, divers should possess at least an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent. This ensures you have the necessary skills and experience for a safe and enjoyable wreck dive.
What are the usual current conditions and visibility levels experienced at the Faithful Friend II dive site?
Unfortunately, the provided data does not include specific details on the usual current conditions or visibility levels experienced at the Faithful Friend II dive site. Divers are advised to check local dive reports and conditions prior to their dive for the most up-to-date information.