FREESIA - Scapa Flow, Orkney

Freesia offers something a little different from Scapa Flow’s grand fleet wrecks. This isn't a scuttled behemoth, but a tough little trawler that sank in a storm in 1919. At 37 metres, she sits upright on the seabed, remarkably intact, with a character all her own. We love finning along her deck, peering into the collapsed wheelhouse, and exploring the holds. The stern, in particular, is a highlight, with the trawl gear still visible and a huge propeller waiting to be admired. It’s an atmospheric dive, with that classic Scapa gloom, but the wreck itself is often swathed in light from above, making for some dramatic photo opportunities. For marine life, we often find conger eels tucked into every nook and cranny, along with the usual crabs and lobsters. The engine room is accessible for those with the right training, but even from the outside, the triple-expansion engine is impressive. It’s a site that rewards multiple visits, each time revealing another detail. We’d suggest diving Freesia on a slack tide to really take your time exploring.

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
59.157810, -3.174150
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
37m

Marine Protected Area: Eynhallow

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 FREESIA

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 FREESIA

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 Fiesa Reef, and what is the optimal depth for the best experience?
The dive site, known as the FREESIA wreck, is located at a depth of 37 meters. As a single wreck site, this depth represents the primary area for exploration. Divers will find the entire 40.2m x 6.9m steel trawler at this depth, offering the best experience of this historical vessel.
What kind of marine life and underwater features, such as wrecks or seahorses, can divers expect to see at Fiesa Reef?
At the FREESIA dive site, divers can expect to explore a fascinating underwater feature: a steel trawler vessel. Built in 1911 and sunk on January 1, 1922, this 40.2m x 6.9m wreck features one boiler and a triple expansion engine. While specific marine life is not detailed in our current data, the wreck itself provides an incredible historical experience.
How challenging is diving at Fiesa Reef, and is it suitable for beginner divers or snorkelers?
Diving at the FREESIA wreck is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive. With a depth of 37 meters, it is generally not suitable for beginner divers or snorkelers. Divers should possess the necessary experience and certifications for deeper wreck diving.
When is the best time of year to dive Fiesa Reef for optimal conditions and marine life encounters?
Information regarding the best time of year for optimal conditions and marine life encounters at the FREESIA wreck is not available in our current data. For general guidance on diving seasons, please visit our When to Dive section.
What diving certifications are required or recommended for exploring Fiesa Reef?
Given the FREESIA wreck's intermediate difficulty and depth of 37 meters, certifications such as Advanced Open Water Diver or a Deep Diver specialty are highly recommended. These certifications ensure divers have the necessary training and experience to safely explore deeper wreck sites. Always dive within your certification limits and consider appropriate equipment.
What are the typical water conditions and currents like at Fiesa Reef, given its accessibility from a recreational beach?
Specific information regarding typical water conditions, currents, or accessibility from a recreational beach for the FREESIA wreck is not provided in our current data. Divers should consult local dive operators in Scapa Flow for up-to-date conditions before planning their dive.