GONDOLIER - Scapa Flow, Orkney

The Gondolier, a shallow blockship in Scapa Flow, really shows its age. Built as a paddle steamer way back in 1866, it’s a proper piece of history, though now it’s just a broken shell resting on its side at a maximum of 10 metres. We love how accessible it is, perfect for an easier second dive or if the weather's a bit frisky elsewhere. You'll spend your time here exploring the remains of that single boiler and the compound expansion engine, which are still quite recognisable even after all these years. The wreck has become home to plenty of wrasse and blennies, darting in and out of the twisted metal. It’s an ideal site for macro photography, finding details that tell the story of its past life. Look out for the massive plates of dead man's fingers coral that cling to the hull, swaying gently in the slight surge. While it's not a dive for big pelagics, the sheer amount of historical metal and the small critters that have made it their home make it a fascinating rummage for any diver interested in wrecks and history.

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
58.838474, -2.900783
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
10m

Marine Protected Area: Switha

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 GONDOLIER

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 GONDOLIER

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