HMS Bullen
Protected Area
Strathy Point
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 Bullen offers some of Scapa Flow, Orkney's richest reef diving. Water ranges 8-14°C, warmest July, August, September.
The HMS Bullen, a Captain-class frigate, sits upright and largely intact, a real treat for anyone exploring the Scapa Flow wrecks. We love her bridge, which offers a genuinely eerie swim-through, complete with the remnants of navigation equipment. You’ll spot nudibranchs clinging to the metalwork and the occasional inquisitive wrasse darting through companionways. Our favourite part is the engine room, surprisingly accessible with the right guidance, where the sheer scale of the machinery still impresses. Visibility can be decent here, but it’s Scapa Flow, so expect some ambient gloom, which only adds to the atmosphere. This is a dive for those who appreciate history and close-up wreck exploration, perfect for drysuit-trained divers comfortable in overhead environments.
Safety Notes
Cold water this month (avg 13°C). Drysuit or thick wetsuit (7mm+) recommended.
Reviews for HMS Bullen
Conditions
Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for HMS Bullen
HMS Bullen Ocean Conditions
Monthly averages for HMS Bullen, 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
Plan & book
Ways to dive Scapa Flow, Orkney, from day trips to liveaboards.
Day trips & courses
via GetYourGuideGuided dives, courses and snorkel trips with instant booking.
Find dive trips in Scapa Flow, OrkneyPlaces to stay
via Booking.comHotels and dive resorts near Scapa Flow, Orkney.
Search stays in Scapa Flow, OrkneyDive insurance
Most travel insurance excludes or limits scuba. Check what you need before you go.
Dive insurance explainedPartner links: we may earn a commission if you book, at no extra cost to you. How we make money
Where to Stay near HMS Bullen
Prices from Booking.com. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.