RADIATION - Scapa Flow, Orkney

Radiation isn't about huge schools of fish or delicate corals, it's about the sheer immersion in a purpose-sunk wreck, completely colonised by life. This ex-longliner, now resting upright at 19 metres, makes for a perfect multi-level dive. We love working our way around the wheelhouse, seeing the gauges and controls still largely intact, before dropping down to explore the hold. It’s a proper hands-on experience, often with a slight chill in the water that reminds you exactly where you are. Visibility usually hovers around 8-10 metres, sometimes more, sometimes less, but it’s always enough to appreciate the scale. Look out for the resident wrasse darting between the deck fittings and the plump plumose anemones that cling to every surface. Our favourite moments are pausing by the bow, watching the light filter down through the often-calm Scapa Flow surface, highlighting the wreck’s silhouette. It's an ideal site for anyone keen on wreck penetration practice, or just enjoying a relaxed dive on a structure that feels genuinely robust.

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
58.847230, -2.984493
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
19m

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 RADIATION

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 RADIATION

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