REGINALD - Scapa Flow, Orkney

Reginald isn't your deep, dark wreck exploration; it's practically a wading pool. This old blockship, sunk in 1914, sits right at 2 metres deep in the East Weddel Sound, making it a fantastic shallow dive or even a snorkel. We love Reginald for its accessibility and the sheer amount of light that penetrates, illuminating every detail of the iron-masted schooner. You can really make out its lines, the way the hull has buckled in places, and the sturdy timbers that once formed its deck. It’s our favourite spot for those days when the deeper dives feel a bit much, or for anyone wanting to spend a long, relaxed time getting up close with a piece of history. Shoals of tiny fish flit through the skeletal remains, and we’ve spotted plenty of crabs scuttling in the shadows beneath the plates. Look closely amongst the kelp and you'll often find nudibranchs inching their way across the rusty iron. For underwater photographers, the shallow depth and ample light offer some stunning opportunities, especially on a calm, sunny day. We’d suggest going at high slack water for the best visibility, though the currents here are rarely challenging enough to spoil the fun.

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
58.870213, -2.912890
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
2m

Marine Protected Area: Waulkmill

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 REGINALD

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 REGINALD

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