46m
    Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom
    Copinsay

    GLENGAIRN

    Good diving all year

    Protected Area

    Copinsay

    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) - GLENGAIRN offers some of Scapa Flow, Orkney's richest wreck diving. Water ranges 8-14°C, warmest July, August, September.

    Best timeYear-round
    WetsuitA drysuit
    Marine lifeBlue Whales, Dolphins, Dwarf Minke Whales, Humpback Whales and Ocean Sunfish (Mola Mola) · 140+ species recorded
    Water8-14°C · warmest July, August, September
    CharacterWreck dive · max 46m
    StandoutRich in charismatic marine life

    The Glengairn is a classic Scapa Flow wreck, a steam trawler that caught fire and sank back in 1901. We’ve always found it a bit more intimate than some of the bigger blockships, perfect for a dive when you want to really explore a single vessel. She sits upright at 46 metres, mostly intact, with a clear deck plan that’s easy to navigate even on a murkier day. What we love about the Glengairn is the sense of history wrapped in marine growth. Her bow points east, and you can still make out the anchor chains leading off into the gloom. The stern has started to collapse a little, but the propeller is often visible, drawing the eye. Look for the winch gear forward, usually adorned with plumose anemones, their white tentacles waving gently in any passing current. On the main deck, cod and ling often shelter, and we’ve seen crabs scuttling amongst the plates. Penetration isn't extensive, but peering into the cargo hold can reveal some surprising artefacts – fishing gear, perhaps, or just the ghostly outline of where it once sat. It’s a dive for those who appreciate the quiet dignity of a well-preserved wreck and the opportunity for some thoughtful exploration.

    Typical GLENGAIRN Dive Profile

    15m30m45mSafety Stop0m46m max~15 min estimated bottom time

    Illustrative profile based on site depth and type. Actual dive profiles vary - always follow your dive computer and training.

    Safety Notes

    Maximum depth 46m exceeds recreational limits (40m). Technical diving certification and equipment required.

    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.

    Today06:3817:1810h 40m daylightGolden hour 16:22

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    Conditions

    Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for GLENGAIRN

    GLENGAIRN Ocean Conditions

    Monthly averages for GLENGAIRN, sourced from Open-Meteo marine data - nearest station: Open-Meteo marine grid (58.64, -3.16) (8km away)

    ExcellentGreatGoodFairPoor★Best monthsThis month

    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

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