RUBY - Scapa Flow, Orkney

The Ruby is a great early-morning dive, particularly if you’re looking to escape the crowds on some of Scapa Flow’s bigger wrecks. We generally drop in before breakfast, catching the light as it filters through the structure. She’s an old steamship, sunk in 1917, sitting upright at 46m. The single boiler and engine are still impressive, and you can poke around the relatively intact hull. While not as grand as some of her neighbours, the Ruby is a charming wreck, offering good penetration for those qualified, and a decent scattering of squat lobsters and the occasional wolffish in the shadows. It's a proper Scapa wreck experience without the big boat fuss.

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
58.982914, -2.593322
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
46m

Marine Protected Area: Auskerry

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 RUBY

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 RUBY

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical depth range for diving the Ruby E Wreck, and what are the main attractions at those depths?
The RUBY Wreck is found at a depth of 46m. Divers can explore the remains of this steam ship vessel, which was built in 1882 and sunk in 1917. Key features include its one boiler and 2-cylinder compound expansion engine, along with its overall dimensions of 37.8m x 6.7m.
What kind of marine life and unique wreck features can divers expect to encounter at the Ruby E dive site?
The RUBY dive site offers a fascinating exploration of a steam ship vessel, sunk on March 29, 1917. Divers can observe its well-preserved structure, including the single boiler and 2-cylinder compound expansion engine. This non-dangerous wreck, measuring 37.8m x 6.7m, provides a unique glimpse into early 20th-century maritime history; however, specific marine life details are not provided in the data.
What is the difficulty level for diving the Ruby E Wreck, and is it considered suitable for divers of all experience levels?
Diving the RUBY Wreck is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive. Due to its depth of 46m and classification, it is best suited for divers with some prior experience and appropriate training, rather than divers of all experience levels.
When is the best time of year to dive the Ruby E Wreck for optimal visibility and calmer conditions?
Unfortunately, the provided data does not specify the best time of year for optimal visibility or calmer conditions at the RUBY Wreck. For general information on seasonal diving conditions, please consult our When to Dive guide.
What diving certifications are recommended or required to safely explore the Ruby E Wreck, particularly for wreck penetration?
The provided data does not specify particular diving certifications recommended or required for safely exploring the RUBY Wreck, nor for wreck penetration. Given its intermediate difficulty and depth of 46m, advanced certifications for deep diving and potentially wreck diving are generally advisable.
How do currents and overall water conditions typically affect a dive at the Ruby E Wreck?
The provided data does not include specific information on how currents or overall water conditions typically affect a dive at the RUBY Wreck. Divers should always check local conditions and forecasts before planning their dive.