HMS Albacore (Bow section) - Scapa Flow, Orkney

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.

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
59.000420, -2.851575
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
24m

Marine Protected Area: Copinsay

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 HMS Albacore (Bow section)

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 HMS Albacore (Bow section)

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