Rackwick Bow - Scapa Flow, Orkney

Cabezo Punta de Domingo might sound a bit like a mouthful, but trust us, this spot near María la Gorda is one we keep coming back to. It’s not about dramatic drop-offs here. Instead, you're diving a vibrant coral mound that sits a little deeper than some of its neighbours. We love the way the light filters down, illuminating patches of green finger sponge and those distinctive brown bowl sponges that seem to cling to every surface. What really grabs us are the shells and the smaller critters. You’ll find yourself slowing right down, peering into crevices for a Modest Triphora or a Nodulose Miter. We’ve spent whole dives just combing the substrate for those striking Antillean Tusk Shells. There's a subtle beauty here; it's less about the big pelagics and more about the intricate details of the reef. We'd suggest hitting this one in the late morning, when the sun is high and penetrates the water best, really bringing out the colours of the corals and sponges. It’s a calmer dive, perfect for photographers or anyone who appreciates the slower pace of a thorough reef exploration.

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
59.333332, -2.983333
Type
reef

Marine Protected Area: West Westray

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 Rackwick Bow

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 Rackwick Bow

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