MAVERICK - Scapa Flow, Orkney

The Maverick is one of those Scapa Flow wrecks we always make time for, even with the bigger German fleet nearby. It’s a fishing vessel, just 21 metres long, but don’t let that fool you into thinking it’s a quick dip. Sunk in 1980 after running aground and being refloated, it lies upright at a comfortable 20 metres, making it perfect for a relaxed dive. We love the way it’s settled, almost as if it’s still fishing the seabed. The wheelhouse is still largely intact, a real highlight, and we often find ourselves poking around inside, imagining the last moments of its working life. Crabs and lobsters are everywhere, tucked into every nook and cranny, and the deck is now a shaggy carpet of anemones and hydroids, swaying gently with the current. This isn’t about grand scale; it’s about the intimacy of a working boat, now a vibrant artificial reef. We always go at slack water for the best visibility, which, let’s be honest, can vary wildly in Scapa, but even on a murkier day, the Maverick’s character shines through.

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
59.507874, -1.651820
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
20m

Marine Protected Area: Fair Isle

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 MAVERICK

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 MAVERICK

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