wreck

Log This Dive

MARKGRAF

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.