HMS Albacore (Bow section)
Protected Area
Copinsay
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) - HMS Albacore (Bow section) offers some of Scapa Flow, Orkney's richest wreck diving. Water ranges 8-14°C, warmest July, August, September.
The HMS Albacore’s bow section is tucked away in the deep, a bit of a quiet surprise in Scapa Flow. It’s a destroyer from the early 20th century, sunk by a mine in 1917, taking 18 souls with her. At 24 metres, it’s a dive that needs decent conditions, but when you get them, it really delivers. We love the way the wreck has settled, almost upright, with the bow gun still pointing defiantly into the gloom. You can spend a good chunk of time exploring the foredeck, feeling the history of it all. Schools of saithe often swirl around the superstructure, thick enough to make you feel tiny. Look closely in the nooks and crannies for squat lobsters and the occasional conger eel peeking out. This isn't a massive wreck, but the details make it captivating – a perfect deep dive for those who appreciate military history and a more intimate wreck experience away from the busier spots. We’d suggest aiming for slack water, as currents here can really whip through.
Typical HMS Albacore (Bow section) Dive Profile
Illustrative profile based on site depth and type. Actual dive profiles vary - always follow your dive computer and training.
Safety Notes
Depth of 24m - Advanced Open Water certification recommended.
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 HMS Albacore (Bow section)
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Conditions
Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for HMS Albacore (Bow section)
HMS Albacore (Bow section) Ocean Conditions
Monthly averages for HMS Albacore (Bow section), 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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