NORTHERN LIGHT - Scapa Flow, Orkney

The Northern Light, a trawler sunk in 1959, is one of Scapa Flow’s lesser-dived wrecks, mostly because it’s so shallow. We mean *really* shallow. This isn't a dive you kit up for with twinsets and deco bottles; it’s more of a snorkel or free-dive, often done from a RIB or even a kayak. But don’t let the depth fool you. What you lose in bottom time, you gain in light and clarity. The wreck sits in just a metre or two of water, so even on a grey Orkney day, the light penetrates right to the hull. We love the way the light picks out the details of the twisted metal, the ghostly outline of the wheelhouse, and the way the kelp fronds sway with the gentle surge. It’s been down there long enough for some serious colonisation: plumose anemones cling to every surface, their tentacles waving like miniature dancers, and you'll often spot wrasse darting between the rusty plates. It’s not about penetration here, but about appreciating the transformation of steel into a living reef. It’s a great spot for underwater photographers looking for natural light and interesting textures, or anyone who fancies a quick dip with a bit of history attached.

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
57.690850, -1.997506
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
1m

Marine Protected Area: Cairnbulg to St Combs Coast

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 NORTHERN LIGHT

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 NORTHERN LIGHT

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