MALMLAND - Scapa Flow, Orkney

Dropping onto the *Malmland* at 53 metres is a journey back to a moment frozen in time. This Swedish steamer, sunk by a German U-boat in 1917, now lies mostly intact, a ghostly silhouette in Scapa Flow’s often moody light. We love the sheer scale of it, 102 metres stretching out into the gloom, her bows and stern still impressively formed. The triple expansion engine is a highlight, and you can explore the engine room, though penetration requires careful planning and appropriate training given the depth. Our favourite spot is usually around the stern, where the prop shaft leads you towards the rudder, now home to some hefty pollack and ling. Visibility here can vary wildly, from a glorious 15 metres to a more typical 5, so bring a powerful torch and keep an eye on your buddy. It’s a dive that suits experienced cold-water wreck enthusiasts who appreciate history and don't mind a bit of current on occasion.

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
57.618350, -1.711617
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
53m

Marine Protected Area: Loch of Strathbeg

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 MALMLAND

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 MALMLAND

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