Row Taing - Scapa Flow, Orkney

Arrecife Schiavoni is a site we’ve developed a real soft spot for in the Galápagos. It doesn’t always get the same fanfare as the big current dives, but it consistently delivers a relaxed, vibrant experience. Drop in here, and you’re instantly greeted by a busy reef, much more colourful than some of its volcanic neighbours. We love drifting over the coral patches, watching the little dramas unfold. You’ll spot groups of Cortez rainbow wrasse zipping around, and there’s a good chance of seeing Pacific mutton hamlet lurking in the crevices. Keep an eye out for golden cownose rays gliding past, their wingtips almost brushing the sand. The whitetip reef sharks are often found napping under ledges, oblivious to the parade. This site is a perfect antidote to the high-adrenaline dives, offering a chance to really slow down and appreciate the smaller stuff – the bumphead damselfish, the tinsel squirrelfish flashing by. It's a fantastic spot for photographers looking for unhurried encounters, or for anyone who just wants to soak in the beauty of a healthy, bustling reef without fighting a ripping current.

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
58.841730, -3.082780
Type
reef

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 Row Taing

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 Row Taing

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