HMD IMBAT
Protected Area
Switha
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) - HMD IMBAT offers some of Scapa Flow, Orkney's richest wreck diving. Water ranges 8-14°C, warmest July, August, September.
The HMD *Imbat* at 12 metres is one of Scapa Flow’s friendliest wrecks, ideal for those wanting to spend some real time exploring. We love how accessible she is, just below the surface, meaning you can really stretch out your bottom time. What was once a paddle tug, later a boom defence vessel, now lies mostly intact on the seabed, her paddle wheels still very much in evidence. We often see lobsters tucked into her nooks and crannies, and you’ll usually find cod poking their heads out from inside the hull. The *Imbat* is a genuinely fascinating dive, particularly when the sunlight filters down, illuminating the internal structures. Our favourite part has to be the engine room, easily penetrable and full of ghostly machinery. It feels like stepping back in time, the metal groaning with the tide. Visibility here can vary, but on a good day, the whole wreck shimmers into view as you descend. It's an excellent site for divers who appreciate history and enjoy a relaxed, detailed exploration rather than a deep, fleeting glimpse. We’d suggest going at slack water for the calmest conditions; it makes poking around inside much more comfortable.
Typical HMD IMBAT Dive Profile
Illustrative profile based on site depth and type. Actual dive profiles vary - always follow your dive computer and training.
Safety Notes
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.
Nearest Dive Centres to HMD IMBAT
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Conditions
Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for HMD IMBAT
HMD IMBAT Ocean Conditions
Monthly averages for HMD IMBAT, sourced from Open-Meteo marine data - nearest station: Open-Meteo marine grid (58.64, -3.16) (8km away)
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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