MARKGRAF - Scapa Flow, Orkney

The Markgraf. Now that’s a wreck. We’ve done Scapa more times than we can count, and for us, the Markgraf always feels like coming home, albeit to a home lying upside down at 40 metres. You descend into that low Orkney light, and suddenly, the sheer scale of her hits you. This isn’t some dainty little coaster; it’s a German battleship, 177 metres of history, capsized and colossal. We love the way the light filters through the opening where the hull plates have buckled, illuminating the inside with an eerie green glow, revealing the massive internal structure. It’s dark in there, properly dark, so good lights are non-negotiable. Our favourite dive is always along the starboard side, exploring the huge gun turrets, each a habitat for anemones and squat lobsters. We’d suggest hitting it on a neap tide for the best visibility, which can swing wildly from 5 to 20 metres depending on the day. Just remember, it’s still considered a dangerous wreck, so proper wreck training and respect for the site are paramount. This is a dive for experienced wreck enthusiasts who appreciate the silent, imposing grandeur of naval history.

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
58.891243, -3.166738
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
40m

Marine Protected Area: Waulkmill

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 MARKGRAF

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 MARKGRAF

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