S54
Protected Area
Switha
Why dive here
With 140+ marine species recorded in the area - including blue whales, dolphins, dwarf minke whales, humpback whales and ocean sunfish (mola mola) - S54 offers some of Scapa Flow, Orkney's richest wreck diving. Water ranges 8-14°C, warmest July, August, September.
The S54, a German destroyer, offers a good dive for those exploring Scapa Flow’s shallower wrecks. You’ll find her broken up across a 14-meter seabed, the result of being driven ashore and later demolished with explosives. Despite the damage, sections of hull plating, twisted machinery, and plenty of smaller debris remain scattered, providing shelter for inquisitive wrasse and an occasional lobster. It’s a site that rewards careful exploration, revealing glimpses of her former structure beneath the kelp and anemones. We think it's a solid choice for a second dive or if you're looking for something less demanding.
Typical S54 Dive Profile
Illustrative profile based on site depth and type. Actual dive profiles vary - always follow your dive computer and training.
Safety Notes
Wreck site - avoid penetration without wreck diving certification. Watch for sharp metal and entanglement hazards.
Cold water this month (avg 13°C). Drysuit or thick wetsuit (7mm+) recommended.
Always perform a 3-minute safety stop at 5m before surfacing.
Nearest Dive Centres to S54
Dive shops near S54
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Conditions
Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for S54
S54 Ocean Conditions
Monthly averages for S54, sourced from Open-Meteo marine data - nearest station: Open-Meteo marine grid (58.64, -3.16) (8km away)
October Averages
Sea Temperature
13°C
55°F · Range: 11.4–13.8°C
Air Temperature
10°C
50°F
Wind Speed
9.26 m/s
18.0 knots
Atmospheric Pressure
1005.3 hPa
Based on 4 years of monitoring data · Data sources: Open-Meteo marine data
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