HMS Hampshire - Scapa Flow, Orkney

Diving the MS Estonia isn't about vibrant corals or big pelagics. It’s about history, cold water, and a profound sense of respect. This isn’t a leisurely drift over a colourful reef; it’s a sombre journey to a place of immense tragedy, and frankly, it’s not for everyone. The ferry lies at a depth best suited for experienced technical divers, and the visibility can be challenging, often dictated by the Baltic’s mood. What we love about Estonia is its sheer scale and the way the wreck itself tells a story. We’ve finned along its massive hull, seeing how the plating buckled, and it truly brings home the power of the storm that night. You'll often find a surprising amount of life clinging to the metal, though. Cod and blennies hide in the shadows, and we’ve seen schools of herring shimmer past the bridge superstructure. Our advice? Go with a dive centre that has specific experience here. The currents can be unpredictable, and understanding the wreck's layout, even from the exterior, is key to a safe dive. It's a powerful dive, certainly, but one that demands careful planning and a clear head.

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
59.117060, -3.395887
Type
wreck

Marine Protected Area: Marwick Head

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 Hampshire

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 Hampshire

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