wreck

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PHARAON

The Pharaon wreck in Scapa Flow might not be one of the German High Seas Fleet giants, but it’s an absolute charmer and one of our favourite shallow wrecks. This little fishing vessel, just shy of 15 metres, sank in 1981 after catching fire, and it’s now a fantastic spot for a relaxed exploration. We love how intact it is, sitting upright in just 12 metres of water. You can peek into the wheelhouse, still largely recognisable, and imagine the last moments before it went down. What really makes Pharaon special is the way marine life has utterly reclaimed it. The fishing gear, winches, and even parts of the superstructure are completely encrusted with anemones, dead man's fingers, and kelp. It’s a riot of colour against the Scapa gloom, especially when a bit of sunlight filters down. We often find juvenile pollack darting through the gaps, and the occasional crab scuttling across the deck. It’s an ideal second dive for a longer day, or a great spot for newer drysuit divers to get comfortable with wreck penetration, given the shallow depth and relatively easy access points. Just watch your fins inside the smaller spaces.