PRESTONIAN - Scapa Flow, Orkney

Prestonian, down in Scapa Flow, is one of those shallow wrecks we keep coming back to. Eight metres is hardly deep, but the conditions are often just right for a long, relaxed potter around a piece of history. We’re talking about a steamship from 1901, and she met her end in 1915, so there's plenty of story here. Drop onto her and you’re immediately struck by the sheer scale of the hull, largely intact, resting on its side. You can easily follow the lines of the deck, and we love peeking into the cargo holds, often filled with shoals of small pollack darting through the gloom. The boiler is a real focal point, big and round, now home to dozens of squat lobsters clinging to its rivets, and if you’re patient, you’ll spot a few inquisitive wrasse nosing about. Visibility here can swing, but when it’s good, the light penetrates beautifully, picking out the anemones and soft corals that have made this wreck their own. It’s an ideal dive for anyone looking to spend time exploring without the pressure of depth or strong current. A gentle dive with a big payoff.

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
57.691402, -2.143319
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
8m

Marine Protected Area: Rosehearty to Fraserburgh 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 PRESTONIAN

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 PRESTONIAN

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 depth range for dives at Preston Bay Marine Park?
The PRESTONIAN wreck, located in Scapa Flow, offers dives at a specific depth of 8 meters. This makes it a relatively shallow dive site, suitable for various experience levels.
What marine life and underwater attractions can divers expect to see at Preston Bay Marine Park?
At the PRESTONIAN dive site, divers can explore the fascinating remains of a steam ship vessel, which sank on May 25, 1915. This historical wreck, built in 1901, features one boiler and a triple expansion engine, offering a unique underwater attraction.
How challenging are the dive sites in Preston Bay Marine Park, and are they suitable for all skill levels?
The PRESTONIAN wreck dive site is classified as having an intermediate difficulty. While its shallow depth of 8 meters might seem accessible, its classification as a 'Dangerous wreck' suggests it is best suited for divers with some prior experience and not necessarily for all skill levels.
What is the best time of year to visit Preston Bay Marine Park for diving, considering weather and marine life?
Information regarding the best time of year to visit Scapa Flow for diving the PRESTONIAN, considering specific weather patterns or marine life cycles, is not available in the current data. For general guidance on diving seasons, please refer to our When to Dive section.
Are there any specific scuba diving certifications required to dive at Preston Bay Marine Park?
While the PRESTONIAN wreck is classified as an intermediate dive, specific certification requirements are not detailed in the provided data. Divers should always ensure they have the appropriate training and experience for wreck diving and consult with local dive operators.
What are the usual water temperatures, visibility, and current conditions like at Preston Bay Marine Park?
Details regarding typical water temperatures, visibility, or current conditions for the PRESTONIAN dive site are not included in the available data. Divers planning to explore this Scapa Flow wreck should inquire with local dive centers for up-to-date environmental information.