HMS GRIVE - Scapa Flow, Orkney

The HMS Grive sits deep, a good 55 metres down in Scapa Flow, making it a dive for those comfortable with decompression. This armed boarding steamer, torpedoed back in 1917, is very much a coherent wreck. We love how intact she feels despite the years, her bow still pointing proudly upwards, though now draped in anemones. Dropping down, the sheer scale becomes apparent – 89 metres of history. There are penetrations possible into the holds, which are often swarming with squat lobsters and the occasional ling lurking in the shadows. Look closely at the superstructure; we’ve seen some huge plumose anemones clinging on, swaying gently with the faint current. It’s a dive that rewards careful exploration, not just a quick swim-over. Our favourite part is probably the stern, where the prop shaft is still visible, encrusted with dead man's fingers. Visibility here can be 10-15 metres on a good day, but it’s the darkness and depth that really add to the atmosphere. We’d suggest a strong torch, not just for looking inside, but for bringing out the vibrant colours of the invertebrate life covering the metalwork. It’s a proper expedition dive, a deep, quiet encounter with a piece of wartime history.

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
59.419990, -2.352797
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
55m

Marine Protected Area: Northwall

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 GRIVE

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 GRIVE

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