SAINT KENTIGERN - Scapa Flow, Orkney

The Saint Kentigern sits upright on the seabed at 30 metres, a fairly intact coaster that went down in 1979. We like it because it’s a manageable size, big enough to spend some decent bottom time exploring but not so huge you get lost. You can peer into the holds, see the engine room aft, and the bow ramp is still there, giving a good sense of its working life. Over the years, plenty of crabs and lobsters have moved in, tucked into crevices, and the deck is usually covered in dead man's fingers. It’s a solid dive for those who enjoy wreck penetration on a smaller scale, and the calm conditions of Scapa Flow make it accessible for most experienced divers.

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
60.045320, -1.379679
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
30m

Marine Protected Area: St Ninian's Tombolo

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 SAINT KENTIGERN

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 SAINT KENTIGERN

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 are the typical diving depths at the dive sites where Saint Kentigern students go diving?
The SAINT KENTIGERN dive site, a prominent wreck in Scapa Flow, offers diving depths of 30 meters. This depth provides an excellent opportunity to explore the well-preserved motor vessel.
What kind of marine life and underwater topography can divers expect to see at the Saint Kentigern associated dive sites?
The primary underwater topography at the SAINT KENTIGERN dive site is the impressive motor vessel wreck itself, measuring 49.7m x 8.8m. While specific marine life details are not provided, wrecks like this often become artificial reefs, attracting various local species over time. Divers can explore its structure, including its single deck and bow ramp.
How challenging are the dives at the locations where Saint Kentigern students typically dive, and are they suitable for all experience levels?
Dives at the SAINT KENTIGERN wreck are classified as intermediate difficulty. Given its classification as a "Dangerous wreck" and the depth of 30 meters, these dives are best suited for divers with some experience rather than all experience levels. Proper training and experience in wreck diving are highly recommended for this site.
What is the best time of year to dive at the dive sites frequented by Saint Kentigern, considering weather and marine life?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year to dive at the SAINT KENTIGERN site, nor does it detail seasonal weather or marine life patterns. For general guidance on optimal diving conditions in the United Kingdom, you might consult DivePlnr's When to Dive section.
What scuba diving certifications are required to dive at the sites where Saint Kentigern students conduct their dives?
While specific certification requirements are not explicitly stated for the SAINT KENTIGERN wreck, its intermediate difficulty and classification as a "Dangerous wreck" suggest that advanced certifications, such as Advanced Open Water Diver and potentially a Wreck Diver specialty, would be highly beneficial. Divers should always ensure they have the appropriate training and experience for such challenging dives.
What are the typical currents and water conditions like at the dive sites where Saint Kentigern students go diving?
The provided data for the SAINT KENTIGERN dive site does not include details on typical currents or specific water conditions. Divers planning to explore Scapa Flow should research local conditions closer to their dive date, as these can vary significantly.