FULMAR
Protected Area
Hoy
Why dive here
With 140+ marine species recorded in the area - including blue whales, dolphins, dwarf minke whales, humpback whales and ocean sunfish (mola mola) - FULMAR offers some of Scapa Flow, Orkney's richest wreck diving. Water ranges 8-14°C, warmest July, August, September.
The Fulmar isn't about grand scale, it's about story and surprising marine residents. This is a small, coastal merchant cruiser, not one of Scapa's German giants, but that's precisely why we love it. At a gentle 31 metres, it's very accessible. You drop onto a wreck that feels almost personal. The Fulmar went down with a fire onboard in 1916, and you can sense that history among the twisted metal. We often find conger eels peering from the darker sections, their thick bodies camouflaged against the rust. Lobsters scuttle into crevices as you approach, and we’ve seen plenty of large wrasse cruising the deck. It's a proper Scapa wreck experience, just in miniature. The compact size means you can properly explore it in a single dive without feeling rushed, poking into every nook and cranny. It’s perfect for those looking for a relaxed dive with a good sense of history, and a chance to spot some chunky critters.
Typical FULMAR Dive Profile
Illustrative profile based on site depth and type. Actual dive profiles vary - always follow your dive computer and training.
Safety Notes
Deep dive (31m) - monitor air consumption closely. Advanced certification recommended.
Wreck site - avoid penetration without wreck diving certification. Watch for sharp metal and entanglement hazards.
Cold water this month (avg 13°C). Drysuit or thick wetsuit (7mm+) recommended.
Always perform a 3-minute safety stop at 5m before surfacing.
Nearest Dive Centres to FULMAR
Dive shops near FULMAR
View all dive centres in Scapa Flow, OrkneyReviews for FULMAR
Conditions
Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for FULMAR
FULMAR Ocean Conditions
Monthly averages for FULMAR, sourced from Open-Meteo marine data - nearest station: Open-Meteo marine grid (58.64, -3.16) (8km away)
October Averages
Sea Temperature
13°C
55°F · Range: 11.4–13.8°C
Air Temperature
10°C
50°F
Wind Speed
9.26 m/s
18.0 knots
Atmospheric Pressure
1005.3 hPa
Based on 4 years of monitoring data · Data sources: Open-Meteo marine data
Plan & book
Ways to dive Scapa Flow, Orkney, from day trips to liveaboards.
Day trips & courses
via GetYourGuideGuided dives, courses and snorkel trips with instant booking.
Find dive trips in Scapa Flow, OrkneyPlaces to stay
via Booking.comHotels and dive resorts near Scapa Flow, Orkney.
Search stays in Scapa Flow, OrkneyDive insurance
Most travel insurance excludes or limits scuba. Check what you need before you go.
Dive insurance explainedPartner links: we may earn a commission if you book, at no extra cost to you. How we make money
Where to Stay near FULMAR
Prices from Booking.com. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.