QUIET WATERS - Scapa Flow, Orkney

Quiet Waters is a fantastic little wreck, and a real contrast to the big German fleet in Scapa Flow. It’s a fishing vessel, the *FV Rosedale H-165*, that ran aground in a gale back in 2011. You dive it in almost no depth at all, essentially on the shoreline. This isn't a deep, dark wreck; it’s bright, accessible, and full of life. We particularly love it for new drysuit divers or anyone wanting a relaxed, long bottom time wreck dive. The wreck itself is well broken up but still very recognisable. You’ll find the engine block, propeller, and large sections of hull scattered across the seabed. Because it’s so shallow, the light here is incredible. Sunlight streams through, illuminating the anemones and colourful sponges that have completely covered the steel. Look closely and you’ll spot blennies darting between crevices, crabs scuttling over plates, and curious wrasse investigating your fins. It’s a really peaceful dive, hence the name, and a perfect spot for photography. Our tip: go at high tide for the best visibility and a slightly deeper experience, though it's never really deep.

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
60.111168, -1.339500
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
0m

Marine Protected Area: Mousa

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 QUIET WATERS

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 QUIET WATERS

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