LOFOTEN - Scapa Flow, Orkney

The Lofoten, torpedoed in 1918, lies quietly at 34 metres. It’s not the most intact wreck in Scapa Flow, but what remains offers a compelling dive. We love the way she’s opened up, creating these dramatic entry points into the holds. Inside, the light filters through the gaps, illuminating thick clumps of plumose anemones, often in a kaleidoscope of pinks and oranges. Look closely, and you’ll spot squat lobsters tucked into every crevice, along with the occasional wolf fish peering out from under a plate. Exploring the engine room is our favourite part; it feels like stepping back in time. The Lofoten is a moody dive, perfect for those who appreciate the historical weight of Scapa Flow and don't need a fully preserved hull. It’s less about penetration, more about experiencing a wreck reclaimed by the sea. Expect cooler water, even in summer, so a drysuit is definitely the way to go here.

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
59.199530, -3.926493
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
34m

Marine Protected Area: Sule Skerry

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 LOFOTEN

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 LOFOTEN

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