JAMBO - Scapa Flow, Orkney

Jambo sits upright in about 27 metres of water, a fairly recent addition to Scapa Flow's wreck collection, having sunk in 2003. She’s a decent sized cargo vessel, 88 metres long, and because of her age, she’s largely intact – a great contrast to some of the more broken up WWI German Fleet wrecks. We often drop down to find the bridge section still well-defined, and it’s possible to explore the hold areas. Look for the six-cylinder engine, still very much present. The relatively shallow depth for Scapa means dive time isn't too restricted, and we’ve seen plenty of wrasse and blennies making themselves at home amongst the plates. It’s a solid dive for wreck enthusiasts who appreciate a more complete structure.

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
58.019516, -5.452317
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
27m

Marine Protected Area: Rubha Dunan

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 JAMBO

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 JAMBO

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

How deep is the Jambo wreck dive site?
The Jambo wreck dive site has a maximum depth of 27 meters. This makes it accessible for divers with appropriate certifications for intermediate-level wreck diving.
What marine life and wreck features can divers expect to see on the Jambo?
The Jambo is a substantial carrier vessel, measuring 88.2 meters in length and 14.2 meters in width. Divers can explore the structure of this large wreck, which was built in 1990 and sunk in 2003. While specific marine life is not detailed, wrecks often attract a variety of local species in Scapa Flow.
Is the Jambo wreck considered a difficult dive, or is it suitable for less experienced divers?
The Jambo wreck is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive. This means it is suitable for divers with some experience, but less experienced divers may find it challenging. Proper training and guidance are recommended for exploring this site in Scapa Flow.
What is the best time of year or tide to dive the Jambo wreck in Scotland?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year or tide to dive the Jambo wreck. For detailed information on optimal diving conditions in Scapa Flow, it is best to consult local dive operators or resources like DivePlnr's When to Dive section.
What scuba diving certifications are required to dive the Jambo wreck?
Given that the Jambo wreck is an intermediate-level dive to a depth of 27 meters, divers should possess certifications appropriate for wreck diving and depths beyond entry-level. Typically, an Advanced Open Water Diver certification or a specialty wreck diver certification would be recommended. Always check with local dive centers in Scapa Flow for specific requirements.
What are the typical current and water conditions at the Jambo dive site?
The provided data does not include specific information on typical current or water conditions at the Jambo dive site. Divers planning to visit Scapa Flow should consult local dive operators for up-to-date information on currents, visibility, and water temperatures.