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

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical diving depth range at MALMLAND?
The MALMLAND dive site is located at a depth of 53 meters. This makes it a deep dive, suitable for divers with appropriate training and experience in deep diving.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at MALMLAND?
Divers visiting MALMLAND can explore the impressive remains of a historic steam ship vessel, measuring 102.6m x 15.3m. This wreck, built in 1904 and sunk in 1915, features three boilers and a triple expansion engine. While specific marine life details are not provided, wrecks often become artificial reefs, attracting various species over time.
How difficult are the dives at MALMLAND, and is it suitable for all experience levels?
Dives at MALMLAND are classified as intermediate difficulty. Given its depth of 53 meters, this site is not suitable for all experience levels and requires divers to have advanced training and experience in deep diving.
What is the best time of year to visit MALMLAND for optimal diving conditions?
The provided data context does not specify the best time of year to visit MALMLAND for optimal diving conditions. For general information on when to dive in the Scapa Flow region, please check our When to Dive guide.
What scuba diving certifications are required or recommended to dive at MALMLAND?
Given the intermediate difficulty and a depth of 53 meters, divers are typically required or highly recommended to hold advanced certifications, such as a Deep Diver specialty. Technical diving certifications may also be beneficial for extended bottom times at this depth.
What are the typical currents and water conditions like at the MALMLAND dive site?
The provided data context does not include specific information regarding typical currents or water conditions at the MALMLAND dive site. Divers should always consult local dive operators for up-to-date conditions before planning their dive.