HMS Ormonde (possibly) - Scapa Flow, Orkney

Diving the HMS Vanguard in Scapa Flow, you’re not just exploring a wreck, you’re touching a piece of history. We’ve always found that sense of connection profoundly moving here. Dropping down, you feel the chill of the North Atlantic, a cool embrace that sharpens your focus. This isn't a brightly lit coral reef; it's a deep, dramatic dive, often with visibility that demands you stick close and appreciate the details. The Vanguard lies broken, testament to the catastrophic internal explosion that sank her in 1917. We love navigating the sections of her hull, particularly the huge gun turrets, which are still discernible amidst the collapsed steel. They are massive, truly immense. Look for the bull rout tucked into crevices, their camouflaged bodies almost part of the rust, and the vibrant orange of sulphur sponges coating some of the plates. It’s a somber but awe-inspiring place, best suited for experienced cold-water wreck divers who appreciate the historical weight as much as the structure itself. The atmosphere is quiet, reverent. It’s a dive that stays with you long after you surface.

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
57.401623, -1.621970
Type
wreck

Marine Protected Area: Bullers of Buchan Coast

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 Ormonde (possibly)

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 Ormonde (possibly)

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