HMS OPAL - Scapa Flow, Orkney

The HMS Opal sits in Scapa Flow, a stark reminder of the wild North Sea. We love this site for its sheer accessibility; at just 8 metres deep, it's a perfect introduction to wreck diving, even for those newer to colder waters. She went down in a violent gale, and you can almost feel the storm still, the way the sand shifts around her. The Opal lies broken in two main sections, her bows and stern separated. Heading down, you'll pick out the distinct shape of her stern first, then the midships, where the triple expansion engines are surprisingly intact. Look for the prop shaft stretching out, a dark line into the gloom. The wreck itself has become home to a bustling community of critters – we always find conger eels tucked into the tight spaces and colourful dahlia anemones plastered across the metal. Visibility can be a bit of a gamble, often around 5-10 metres, so bringing a good torch is key to really appreciating the details. It’s a great dive to combine with a shore excursion around the Orkney mainland.

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
58.770430, -2.931596
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
8m

Marine Protected Area: Pentland Firth Islands

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 OPAL

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 OPAL

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the maximum depth of the HMS OPAL dive site?
The HMS OPAL dive site has a maximum depth of 8 meters. This relatively shallow depth makes it accessible for many divers, offering a unique wreck experience in Scapa Flow.
What kind of wreckage and marine life can divers expect to see at the HMS OPAL site?
Divers exploring the HMS OPAL can expect to encounter the remains of an M-class destroyer vessel, built in 1915 and sunk in 1918. This wreck, measuring 84.1m x 8.2m, still features its three boilers and twin shaft turbines. While specific marine life isn't detailed in the provided data, wrecks often become artificial reefs, attracting various local species over time, which you can learn more about in our wildlife database.
How challenging is diving the HMS OPAL wreck, considering its condition and location?
Diving the HMS OPAL is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive. Despite being wrecked in a violent gale and snow storm, it is considered a non-dangerous wreck, making it a manageable challenge for appropriately skilled divers exploring Scapa Flow.
What are the best times of year to dive the HMS OPAL for optimal conditions?
The provided data does not specify the best times of year to dive the HMS OPAL for optimal conditions. For general guidance on diving in the Scapa Flow area, it is advisable to consult local dive operators or resources like When to Dive for seasonal insights.
What diving certifications are recommended or required to dive the HMS OPAL wreck?
Given the HMS OPAL is an intermediate difficulty wreck dive, divers should possess certifications appropriate for such conditions. Typically, this would include advanced open water certification or equivalent, along with specialized wreck diving training for those wishing to explore the interior of the wreck.
What are the typical current and visibility conditions at the HMS OPAL dive site?
The provided data does not include specific details regarding typical current or visibility conditions at the HMS OPAL dive site. For up-to-date information on these conditions in Scapa Flow, it is best to consult local dive centers or recent dive reports before planning your trip.