GK 41/GR 41 - Scapa Flow, Orkney

When we think of Scapa Flow, we usually picture those deep, dark battleships. But GK 41/GR 41 offers something completely different, and we absolutely love it for a shore dive. This is the barge that went ashore in Hos Wick Bay, sitting practically on the surface, with the stern just barely submerged at high tide. It’s an easy entry right off the rocks, perfect for a relaxed dive or even a snorkel if you just want to poke around. What you get here is a real sense of a wreck being reclaimed. The plates are peeling, the frames are exposed, and the whole structure is just encrusted with anemones and kelp. We’ve seen blennies darting into every crevice, butterfish weaving through the twisted metal, and even the occasional small crab scuttling across the deck. Sunlight filters through the shallow water, illuminating the colours beautifully, especially on a calm day. It's a peaceful dive, a chance to really slow down and appreciate how quickly the sea takes back what's hers. Grab a torch to peer into the darker corners, though, you never know what’s lurking.

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
59.993103, -1.247748
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
1m

Marine Protected Area: Mousa to Boddam

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 GK 41/GR 41

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 GK 41/GR 41

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