FRAM (BOW SECTION) (POSSIBLY) - Scapa Flow, Orkney

Diving the Fram’s bow section is always a bit of a mystery, which is half the fun in Scapa Flow. You drop down, often through water that’s got that classic Scapa green tint, and suddenly this massive, angular structure starts to resolve out of the gloom. It sits upright, mostly intact, a real testament to its build. We love swimming along the deck, feeling the cool water pressing in, and exploring the holds. They're surprisingly open, easy to penetrate for a quick peek, and often home to a flurry of small fish darting into the shadows. Our favourite spot has to be the very tip of the bow, where the chain locker is still visible. It’s absolutely encrusted with plumose anemones, their white tentacles swaying gently in the subtle current. The sheer scale of it hits you, especially when you think about the ship’s history. You'll often find ling lurking in the deeper recesses, and sometimes a curious grey seal will pop by for a quick inspection. It's a proper historical dive, best for those who appreciate the story behind the metal and aren’t afraid of a bit of ambient light diving. Watch your trim; there’s a fair amount of silt.

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
57.701400, -2.177204
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
32m

Marine Protected Area: Troup, Pennan and Lion's Heads

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 FRAM (BOW SECTION) (POSSIBLY)

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 FRAM (BOW SECTION) (POSSIBLY)

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