G40
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) - G40 offers some of Scapa Flow, Orkney's richest wreck diving. Water ranges 8-14°C, warmest July, August, September.
The G40, a destroyer scuttled back in 1919, rests in Scapa Flow at a manageable 14 metres. We often find this a good, straightforward dive, especially when the weather decides to be less than kind to the deeper wrecks. Lying on its starboard side, the wreck still holds a fair amount of detail, though it's certainly breaking down now. You can navigate the deck easily enough, looking into where the superstructure once stood proud. Shoals of saithe usually hang around the bow and stern, and we've seen some impressive conger eels tucked into the more sheltered spots. It’s a solid pick for divers keen to experience a piece of Scapa Flow’s history without the demands of a deeper, darker dive.
Typical G40 Dive Profile
Illustrative profile based on site depth and type. Actual dive profiles vary - always follow your dive computer and training.
Safety Notes
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 G40
Dive shops near G40
View all dive centres in Scapa Flow, OrkneyReviews for G40
Conditions
Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for G40
G40 Ocean Conditions
Monthly averages for G40, 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 G40
Prices from Booking.com. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.