GLENRAVEL - Scapa Flow, Orkney

The Glenravel is a proper Scapa Flow wreck, often overlooked for the bigger German Fleet ships, but we think that’s a mistake. She’s a steamship, torpedoed in 1915, sitting upright on her keel at 55 metres. Descending, the first thing you notice is how intact she is, especially the bow, which really holds its shape, creating fantastic shadowed swim-throughs. We love exploring the holds, usually filled with schooling saithe, and the engine room is always a favourite spot – you can still clearly make out the triple-expansion engine. It’s a dark dive, as you’d expect at this depth, but the ambient light filtering through the superstructure gives it a unique, ethereal feel. Our tip? Go with a dive centre that knows the wreck well; they’ll guide you to the less-obvious penetration points. This wreck is definitely one for experienced divers comfortable with deeper dives and overhead environments.

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
58.108017, -2.010039
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
55m

Marine Protected Area: Rosehearty to Fraserburgh Coast

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 GLENRAVEL

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 GLENRAVEL

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical depth range for diving at the GLENRAVEL dive site?
The GLENRAVEL dive site is located at a depth of 55m. This makes it a deep dive, primarily suitable for experienced divers. Divers should be prepared for conditions associated with significant depth.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at GLENRAVEL?
Divers exploring the GLENRAVEL can expect to encounter the remains of a 70.8m x 10.3m steam ship vessel, sunk on August 8, 1915. Key underwater features include its two boilers, triple expansion engine, and single shaft machinery built by MacColl & Co. As a non-dangerous wreck, it offers a fascinating historical exploration.
How challenging is diving at GLENRAVEL, and is it suitable for beginner divers?
Diving at GLENRAVEL is classified as intermediate difficulty. With a depth of 55m, it is not suitable for beginner divers. This dive requires advanced training and experience for safe exploration.
What is the best time of year to dive at GLENRAVEL for optimal conditions and visibility?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year to dive at GLENRAVEL for optimal conditions and visibility. Divers interested in seasonal conditions may wish to consult local dive operators or general resources on when to dive in the Scapa Flow area.
Are there any specific diving certifications required to dive at GLENRAVEL?
While the provided data does not explicitly list specific diving certifications for GLENRAVEL, its intermediate difficulty and depth of 55m strongly suggest that advanced certifications, such as deep diver or technical diving qualifications, would be necessary. Divers should always ensure they meet the required experience and certification levels for such challenging dives.
What are the typical current and water conditions like at the GLENRAVEL dive site?
The provided data does not include specific information regarding the typical current and water conditions at the GLENRAVEL dive site. Divers planning a trip should consult local dive centers for up-to-date conditions in Scapa Flow.