12m
    Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom
    Switha

    HMD IMBAT

    Good diving all year

    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.

    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 12m
    StandoutRich in charismatic marine life

    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

    5m10mSafety Stop0m12m max~60 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

    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.

    Today06:4017:2010h 40m daylightGolden hour 16:25

    Nearest Dive Centres to HMD IMBAT

    Dive shops near HMD IMBAT

    View all dive centres in Scapa Flow, Orkney

    Reviews for HMD IMBAT

    Sign in to write a review

    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)

    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

    Plan & book

    Ways to dive Scapa Flow, Orkney, from day trips to liveaboards.

    Day trips & courses

    via GetYourGuide

    Guided dives, courses and snorkel trips with instant booking.

    Find dive trips in Scapa Flow, Orkney

    Places to stay

    via Booking.com

    Hotels and dive resorts near Scapa Flow, Orkney.

    Search stays in Scapa Flow, Orkney

    Dive insurance

    Most travel insurance excludes or limits scuba. Check what you need before you go.

    Dive insurance explained

    Partner links: we may earn a commission if you book, at no extra cost to you. How we make money

    Where to Stay near HMD IMBAT

    Prices from Booking.com. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

    Back to Scapa Flow, Orkney