MISTLEY - Scapa Flow, Orkney

The Mistley isn't a deep dive, at just two metres, but it's one of our favourite shore entries in Scapa Flow. This isn’t about grand exploration, it’s a detailed, intimate wreck experience, perfect for those days when the weather chases you out of the Flow’s deeper sites. We love how accessible she is, the bow practically kisses the surface at low tide. You’re diving an old steamship here, sunk back in '57. Her triple-expansion engine is still largely intact, a real treat to swim around, and we often find small lobsters tucked into the pipework. The real character comes from the way she’s settled, almost on her side, giving you some interesting angles to peek into what’s left of her holds. Visibility can swing a bit depending on the tide, but we've had some cracking dives here with 10-15 metres, enough to really appreciate the shape of the hull. Look closely at the deck plating, it’s a riot of small anemones and nudibranchs. It’s a site for a relaxed poke-around, not a fin-kicking sprint.

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
59.349545, -2.368379
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
2m

Marine Protected Area: Northwall

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 MISTLEY

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 MISTLEY

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 at Mistley and are there any deeper areas to explore?
The typical diving depth at the Mistley dive site is a shallow 2 meters. The provided information does not specify any deeper areas to explore beyond this depth.
What kind of marine life or underwater features can divers expect to encounter when diving in Mistley?
When diving at Mistley, divers can expect to encounter the remains of a steam ship vessel, which was sunk on June 19, 1957. This wreck measures 48.2m x 7.6m and serves as the main underwater feature. The provided data does not specify any particular marine life.
How challenging is diving at Mistley, and is it suitable for beginner divers?
Diving at Mistley is classified as having an intermediate difficulty level. While not extremely challenging, this rating suggests it may not be ideal for absolute beginner divers without some prior experience.
What are the best times of year or tidal conditions to dive at Mistley for optimal visibility and safety?
The provided data for the Mistley dive site does not include specific information regarding the best times of year or optimal tidal conditions for diving. For details on general diving conditions in the region, you might consult when to dive resources.
Are there any specific certifications or experience levels required to dive at the Mistley site?
While specific certification requirements are not explicitly stated, the Mistley dive site is classified as having an intermediate difficulty. Divers should possess the necessary experience and training to comfortably handle intermediate-level dives, which typically means more than just entry-level certification.
What are the typical current strengths and visibility conditions divers should expect in the waters around Mistley?
The provided data for the Mistley dive site does not include information on typical current strengths or visibility conditions. Divers planning a trip should consult local dive operators for the most up-to-date conditions.