HMS Natal - Scapa Flow, Orkney

The HMS M1 wreck is a proper piece of history down there, and one we always enjoy visiting. We love the sheer scale of the M1, a massive submarine that went down in 1925, taking 69 men with her. Dropping onto her deck, it feels like you're stepping back in time. You can spend a good chunk of a dive just exploring her bow, seeing where the massive torpedo tubes once sat. The conning tower is usually a highlight, often draped in dead man's fingers and home to some seriously big wrasse. We’ve spotted common eagle rays cruising past the stern more than once, a truly special sight in these waters. Visibility can be a bit of a lottery, as it often is off the UK coast, but when it's good, it’s a truly impressive dive. We'd suggest aiming for slack water, or you’ll be working for it – the currents here can be a bit lively. It’s a dive for those who appreciate maritime history and don't mind the chill of the Atlantic.

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
57.687400, -4.089266
Type
wreck

Marine Protected Area: Nigg & Udale Bays

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 Natal

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 Natal

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