HMS ENDEAVOUR - Scapa Flow, Orkney

The HMS Endeavour sits upright in Scapa Flow, a trawler converted for boom defence work in the First World War. We love it because it’s surprisingly intact for its age, a real window into a different era of naval history. Dropping down, you’ll first hit the bow, often blanketed in plumose anemones, their white tentacles waving gently in the slight surge. The mast still stands proud, reaching towards the surface, a good reference point if the visibility is doing its usual Scapa Flow mood swings. Inside, the hold is accessible, and we’ve found it a great spot to practice light penetration, with just enough room to move around comfortably without feeling too confined. Look closely for the resident wrasse darting between the frames, and the occasional ling tucked into a shadowy corner. This wreck is a brilliant introduction to Scapa Flow’s deeper, darker secrets, perfect for divers comfortable with overhead environments but not ready for the full penetration challenge. We’d suggest hitting it on a slack tide for the easiest run, though the ambient light at 21 metres is usually pretty good on a bright day. It’s got that quiet, eerie charm that only a century-old wreck can offer.

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
59.024990, -2.944033
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
21m

Marine Protected Area: Waulkmill

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 ENDEAVOUR

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 ENDEAVOUR

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