JAMES BARRIE - Scapa Flow, Orkney

The James Barrie, oh, she’s a beauty and a half down there in Scapa. This isn't just another lump of metal on the seabed. We love how she sits upright, almost perfectly intact at 40 metres, making her feel like a ghost ship ready to sail. Dropping onto her decks, you’re immediately struck by the sheer scale – that long fishing trawler shape is unmistakable. Exploring the engine room is always our favourite part; the triple-expansion engine is still there, massive and imposing, almost like a sculpture. You can poke around the crew quarters too, imagining the daily life on board. We’ve seen conger eels coiled up in dark corners and plump lobsters scuttling away as you pass. The deck is carpeted in anemones and dead man's fingers, a riot of colour against the grey steel. Be ready for chilly water and potentially surge if there’s a swell running, but the visibility here can be surprisingly good, sometimes pushing 15 metres. It’s a dive that demands respect for its depth and conditions, so it's best suited for experienced wreck divers comfortable with longer bottom times and deco. But for those who make the effort, the James Barrie offers a truly rewarding journey into a piece of maritime history, beautifully reclaimed by the sea.

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
58.812620, -3.038267
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
40m

Marine Protected Area: Switha

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 JAMES BARRIE

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 JAMES BARRIE

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 James Barrie dive site?
The James Barrie dive site reaches a maximum depth of 40m. This depth classifies it as a deep dive, suitable for divers with appropriate training and experience. Always ensure you are within your certification limits when exploring this wreck.
What marine life and wreck features can divers expect to see on the James Barrie?
The James Barrie is a 54.9m x 9.1m trawler vessel, built in 1949 and sunk in 1969. Divers can explore its significant features, including its one boiler, triple expansion engine, and single shaft. While specific marine life is not detailed in the provided data, wrecks often become vibrant artificial reefs, attracting various species which you can learn more about in our wildlife database.
How challenging is the James Barrie dive site, and what level of diving experience is recommended?
The James Barrie dive site is classified as intermediate difficulty. This rating suggests that divers should possess a good level of experience, particularly with wreck diving and managing depths up to 40m. It is recommended for divers who are comfortable with these conditions.
What are the optimal conditions or times to dive the James Barrie wreck, considering the tidal currents?
The provided data does not specify optimal conditions or times to dive the James Barrie wreck, nor does it detail typical tidal currents. For the best experience, it is always recommended to consult local dive operators in Scapa Flow for current conditions and expert advice. You can also find general information on when to dive on DivePlnr.
What diving certifications are required or highly recommended for diving the James Barrie?
Given the maximum depth of 40m and its classification as an intermediate wreck dive, advanced certifications such as Deep Diver and Wreck Diver are highly recommended. These certifications ensure divers have the specialized skills and knowledge to safely explore the James Barrie. Always ensure your equipment is suitable for such dives.
What are the typical current conditions and visibility like at the James Barrie dive site?
The provided data does not include specific information regarding typical current conditions or visibility at the James Barrie dive site. Divers planning a trip should consult local dive centers in Scapa Flow for up-to-date reports on these environmental factors. Local knowledge is crucial for a safe and enjoyable dive.