HASSETT - Scapa Flow, Orkney

Hassett, a trawler that went down in 1953, offers something a bit different for Scapa Flow. It’s a shallow dive, barely kissing two metres, meaning you get fantastic bottom time, especially if you’re trying out a new camera rig. We often bring our open water students here for their first taste of a wreck, but honestly, it’s just a great place to potter about. You’ll find the Hassett’s remains spread out, not a big intact structure, but that’s its charm. The stern is probably our favourite, with its big propeller shaft and rudder now home to blennies peeking out of every crevice. We’ve seen small pollack darting through the twisted metal plates and a surprising number of sea slugs on the calmer days. The boilers, once the engine of the ship, are particularly impressive. We love tracing the outline of the old decking, imagining it fully formed while the kelp sways around us. It’s an easy, relaxing dive, perfect for a second dip after something deeper, or for anyone who just wants to soak up the atmosphere of a piece of history resting on the seabed.

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
58.478794, -3.047408
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
2m

Marine Protected Area: Noss Head

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 HASSETT

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 HASSETT

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 Hassett?
The Hassett dive site is typically found at a shallow depth of 2 meters. This makes it an accessible wreck dive, suitable for exploring the distributed remains of the trawler vessel.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can be expected when diving Hassett?
When diving at Hassett, you can expect to explore the distributed remains of a 42.7m x 7.5m trawler vessel, originally built in 1929 and sunk in 1953. While specific marine life details are not provided, wreck sites often attract various local species that colonize the structure. You can learn more about general marine life in our wildlife database.
How challenging is diving at Hassett, and is it suitable for beginner divers?
Diving at Hassett is classified as intermediate difficulty. While its shallow depth of 2 meters is appealing, the nature of a distributed wreck may present challenges not ideal for absolute beginners. Divers should have some experience before attempting this site.
What is the best time of year to dive at Hassett for optimal conditions and marine encounters?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year to dive at Hassett for optimal conditions or marine encounters. For general guidance on diving in Scapa Flow, we recommend consulting our When to Dive section.
What scuba diving certifications are required or recommended to dive at Hassett?
Given that Hassett is rated as an intermediate dive, it is recommended that divers hold at least an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent. This ensures you have the necessary skills and experience to safely navigate a wreck site and its distributed remains.
What are the typical currents and water conditions like at Hassett dive site?
The provided data for the Hassett dive site does not include specific information on typical currents or water conditions. Divers should always check local conditions and forecasts before planning their dive in Scapa Flow.