HMD Lustring - Scapa Flow, Orkney

HMD Lustring, for us, is a genuine Scapa Flow treat that often gets overlooked for its bigger, more dramatic neighbours. Dropping onto her scattered remains at 23 metres feels like stepping into an underwater archaeology site. We love how her hull plates lie peeled back, revealing her internal ribs and the robust engine room. It’s not about penetration here, but rather a slow exploration of the debris field. She’s been down since 1918, so the wreck has become a proper home for sea life. You'll often find a lazy anglerfish tucked amongst the frames, and her plates are usually carpeted in dead man’s fingers. Ling and cod lurk in the deeper shadows, while schools of saithe shimmer above the highest points. Visibility can be a bit variable, but on a good day, the low light filtering through the Orkney green water gives the whole site a wonderfully atmospheric, historical feel. It's a great second dive after one of the big German battleships, offering a completely different perspective on Scapa Flow’s past.

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
59.014000, -2.881617
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
23m

Marine Protected Area: Muckle and Little Green Holm

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 HMD Lustring

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 HMD Lustring

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 maximum depth of the HMD Lustring dive site?
The HMD Lustring dive site has a maximum depth of 23 meters. This depth makes it an interesting site for divers looking to explore the historical wrecks of Scapa Flow.
What marine life and wreck features can divers expect to see at the HMD Lustring?
Divers exploring the HMD Lustring can expect to see the distributed remains of this drifter vessel. The wreck, which foundered on October 3rd, 1918, measures 25.5m x 5.7m. While specific marine life is not detailed in the site information, wrecks in Scapa Flow often become artificial reefs.
How challenging is the HMD Lustring dive, and is it suitable for beginner divers?
The HMD Lustring dive is classified as intermediate difficulty. This means it is not typically suitable for beginner divers, who should gain more experience before attempting such a dive. Divers should ensure they have the appropriate training and experience for intermediate wreck diving.
What is the best time of year to dive the HMD Lustring for optimal conditions?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year to dive the HMD Lustring for optimal conditions. For general information on seasonal diving in the region, please consult our When to Dive guide.
What diving certifications are required to dive the HMD Lustring shipwreck?
While specific certification requirements are not detailed in the provided data for the HMD Lustring, its intermediate difficulty classification suggests that divers should hold at least an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent. Additionally, a wreck diving specialty certification is highly recommended for exploring such sites safely.
What are the typical currents and visibility conditions like at the HMD Lustring dive site?
The provided data does not include specific information regarding the typical currents or visibility conditions at the HMD Lustring dive site. Divers planning to visit Scapa Flow should consult local dive operators for up-to-date conditions.