24m
    Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom
    Copinsay

    HMS Albacore (Bow section)

    Good diving all year

    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.

    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 24m
    StandoutRich in charismatic marine life

    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

    10m20mSafety Stop0m24m max~30 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

    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.

    Today06:3917:1910h 39m daylightGolden hour 16:23

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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)

    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

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