MAKALLA (PROBABLY) - Scapa Flow, Orkney

Makalla (Probably) in Scapa Flow offers a deep dive into history. This steamship, bombed in 1940, rests at 49 meters, its sheer size impressive at 135 meters long. We’ve found the triple expansion engine still largely intact, a real highlight, along with the stern where the propeller blades are usually visible, often draped in dead man’s fingers. The wreck itself has become home to a good variety of fish, conger eels often peek from crevices, and the occasional ling cruises by. It’s a site best suited for experienced divers comfortable with deeper wrecks and the typical Scapa Flow conditions.

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
58.266666, -2.420117
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
49m

Marine Protected Area: Noss Head

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 MAKALLA (PROBABLY)

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 MAKALLA (PROBABLY)

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 typical depth range for diving at Makaha Caverns?
The provided data pertains to the dive site MAKALLA (PROBABLY), not Makaha Caverns. For MAKALLA (PROBABLY), a notable wreck in Scapa Flow, the typical depth is 49 meters. Information regarding the depth range for Makaha Caverns is not available in the provided context.
What kind of marine life and underwater formations can divers expect to see at Makaha Caverns?
The provided data describes MAKALLA (PROBABLY), a steam ship vessel sunk in 1940, rather than Makaha Caverns. Divers exploring MAKALLA (PROBABLY) can expect to encounter a significant wreck formation, measuring 135.6m x 17.7m. Specific details on marine life for either Makaha Caverns or MAKALLA (PROBABLY) are not included in the provided context, but you can explore our marine life database for general information.
How challenging is diving at Makaha Caverns, and is it suitable for beginner divers?
The information provided is for the dive site MAKALLA (PROBABLY), not Makaha Caverns. Diving at MAKALLA (PROBABLY) is classified as 'intermediate' difficulty, making it generally unsuitable for beginner divers. Divers should possess appropriate experience and training for such conditions.
When is the best time of year to dive Makaha Caverns for optimal conditions?
The provided data is for MAKALLA (PROBABLY), and does not include specific information on the best time of year for diving at this site or Makaha Caverns. For general guidance on optimal diving conditions, you may consult our When to Dive section.
What dive certifications are recommended or required for Makaha Caverns?
The provided context describes MAKALLA (PROBABLY), an intermediate-difficulty wreck dive, not Makaha Caverns. While specific certifications are not listed, an intermediate difficulty suggests that advanced certifications, such as Advanced Open Water Diver or Wreck Diver, would be highly recommended. Divers should ensure they have the necessary training and equipment for such a dive.
What are the typical current and visibility conditions at Makaha Caverns?
Information regarding typical current and visibility conditions for Makaha Caverns is not available in the provided data. Similarly, the context for MAKALLA (PROBABLY) does not detail specific current or visibility conditions for this Scapa Flow wreck site.