HMT JASPER - Scapa Flow, Orkney

The HMT Jasper sits deep in Scapa Flow, a trawler-turned-minesweeper that met its end during wartime. At 58 metres, this is one for the technical diver, and honestly, a site we think is often overlooked for its bigger, more famous neighbours. She's a smaller wreck, just over 30 metres long, but what she lacks in size, she makes up for in atmosphere. We love descending onto her deck, where the visibility often holds a green hue, making the structure appear out of the gloom. Her triple-expansion engine is still very much in place, a solid chunk of metal standing proud, and you can swim through areas of the superstructure. It's a real hands-on wreck, not just something to circle. Look closely and you'll spot dead man’s fingers clinging to the metalwork, and the occasional ling or large cod sheltering inside. The lack of current down here usually means a peaceful dive, allowing you to really take your time exploring the details. It's an honest piece of history, and for us, a truly rewarding dive for experienced cold-water wreck enthusiasts. Just be mindful of your bottom time at this depth.

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
58.212200, -2.428550
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
58m

Marine Protected Area: Long Berry 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 HMT JASPER

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 HMT JASPER

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