MANXWOOD - Scapa Flow, Orkney

The Manxwood might not be one of Scapa Flow's big German fleet wrecks, but for technical divers, it’s an absolute standout. Sunk in 1971, this old fishing vessel rests upright at 60 metres, making it a beautiful, achievable deep dive for those looking to stretch their limits without the commitment of the larger battle cruisers. We love the way the light filters down, creating an eerie glow around the wheelhouse, which is often still intact enough to peek inside. What you'll experience here is a true sense of exploration. The stern has a particular charm, with its fishing gear still present, a ghost of its working life. While there aren't specific "notable species" like tropical reefs, the wreck itself is a thriving habitat for Orkney's cold-water critters: large plumose anemones cling to the superstructure, and we’ve often spotted inquisitive wrasse darting in and out of the holds. Visibility can be excellent, though we always check the tides – a slack water dive makes the descent far more enjoyable. It’s a dive that rewards good buoyancy and a keen eye for detail, perfect for experienced technical divers wanting to savour a piece of modern maritime history.

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
57.705822, -3.502802
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
60m

Marine Protected Area: Masonshaugh

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 MANXWOOD

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 MANXWOOD

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