HMS Iolaire - Scapa Flow, Orkney

The HMS Iolaire, sitting just off Stroma, is one of Scapa Flow’s less celebrated wrecks but one we consistently come back to. This old steam yacht, originally built in 1881, ended up in a storm on New Year’s Day 1919, driven onto the rocks near the harbour entrance. It's a sombre site, marked by a massive loss of life, but underwater, it’s surprisingly intact and very atmospheric. We love the way the wreck is almost woven into the reef, a testament to the decades it’s spent on the seabed. Expect to find her well-colonised by plumose anemones, their white tentacles swaying gently in the mild current. You’ll weave around sections of collapsed superstructure, spotting ling and conger eels peeking out from the darker recesses. The stern, in particular, offers some fantastic swim-throughs into the engine room, providing a tangible connection to its past. This dive suits those who appreciate historical wrecks and aren't afraid of a bit of chill. Aim for a slack tide to really enjoy exploring the details; the current here can pick up, especially if you venture too close to the headland.

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
58.188225, -6.357001
Type
wreck

Marine Protected Area: Tong Saltings

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 Iolaire

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 Iolaire

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