SERVUS - Scapa Flow, Orkney

Servus sits shallow in Scapa Flow, an easily accessible wreck for those newer to drysuit diving in these cooler waters. She's a motor vessel, built in '33, and though broken up a bit from her sinking in '59 and subsequent salvage, there's still plenty of character to her. You can trace her lines, see where the engine room was, and poke around her hull, which is now a home for crabs and the odd curious wrasse. Visibility varies, but on a good day, it’s a pleasant dive, a chance to get a feel for Scapa Flow's history without the demands of the deeper blockships.

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
58.227985, -3.434826
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
10m

Marine Protected Area: East Caithness Cliffs

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 SERVUS

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 SERVUS

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 at the SERVUS dive site?
The SERVUS dive site has a typical depth of 10 meters. This makes it a relatively shallow dive, suitable for various experience levels. Divers can enjoy exploring this historic wreck at an accessible depth.
What kind of marine life and underwater topography can divers expect to see at SERVUS?
The SERVUS dive site is a fascinating wreck, specifically a motor vessel that sank in 1959. Divers can explore the remains of this 45.2m x 7.2m vessel, which includes a 6 cylinder oil engine and machinery aft. While specific marine life details are not provided in the data, wrecks like SERVUS often become artificial reefs, attracting various forms of aquatic life over time; for more on marine species, visit our wildlife database.
How difficult is the SERVUS dive site, and is it suitable for beginner or advanced divers?
The SERVUS dive site is classified as intermediate difficulty. It is also noted as a "Dangerous wreck," indicating that while not exclusively for advanced divers, it requires a certain level of experience and caution. Divers should possess the necessary skills for wreck diving and be aware of potential hazards.
What is the best time of year to dive at SERVUS for optimal visibility and conditions?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year for optimal visibility and conditions at the SERVUS dive site. For general information on seasonal diving conditions in the region, you might consult our When to Dive guide.
Are there any specific scuba diving certifications required to dive at the SERVUS site?
While the data does not explicitly state specific certification requirements, given that SERVUS is an intermediate difficulty dive and classified as a "Dangerous wreck," divers should ideally hold an advanced certification or a specialty in wreck diving. This ensures they have the skills and knowledge to safely navigate a wreck of this nature.
What are the usual current and water conditions, such as temperature and visibility, at the SERVUS dive site?
The provided data does not include specific details regarding the usual current, water temperature, or visibility conditions at the SERVUS dive site. Divers planning a trip to Scapa Flow should consult local dive operators for the most up-to-date environmental information before their dive.