FREIDIG (POSSIBLY) - Scapa Flow, Orkney

We love a good deep wreck, and the Freidig, though we’re still working on its definitive identity, is certainly one of our favourites in Scapa Flow. It’s a 72-meter steamship, upright and remarkably intact at 59 meters, a true deep technical dive. Dropping down, you hit the bow first, then the midships where cargo holds yawn open, revealing the massive triple expansion engine in the engine room. It’s dark down there, even on a bright day, the light barely penetrating, so good lighting is a must to pick out the details of the davits and winches. Look for the large resident conger eels that have made homes in the deeper sections, their heads poking out of pipes and crevices as you pass. This site suits experienced technical divers comfortable with depths approaching 60 meters and low visibility. Expect a challenging but rewarding dive into a piece of history, where the cold, still water has preserved the ship’s structure beautifully. Our pick for making the most of it is a calm day with minimal surface chop – it makes the long deco much more pleasant.

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
58.863716, -5.001049
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
59m

Marine Protected Area: Solan Bank Reef

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 FREIDIG (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 FREIDIG (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