PONTOS - Scapa Flow, Orkney

The Pontos isn’t about grand exploration. This blockship, sunk shallow in Water Sound, offers a different kind of Scapa Flow dive. We’re talking about a quick, engaging dip, often a perfect second dive after a deeper wreck. It’s barely 10 meters down, meaning sunlight still filters through, painting the deck plates and collapsed superstructure in a muted green glow. What we love about the Pontos is its accessibility and the sheer density of life that calls it home. You'll weave through the skeletal remains of its bow, spotting massive squat lobsters tucked into every crevice, their antennae twitching in the gentle surge. The twin boilers are a particular highlight, shrouded in kelp and often surrounded by schools of small pollack. Keep an eye out for nudibranchs, especially the lemon peel variety, clinging to the rust-coloured metal. It’s a site for photographers seeking macro subjects, or for those new to wreck diving who want to experience Scapa's history without the depth. We'd suggest going at slack tide for the clearest views.

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
58.839610, -2.903005
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
10m

Marine Protected Area: Switha

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 PONTOS

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 PONTOS

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