Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom
    Waulkmill

    SMS Brummer

    Good diving all year

    Protected Area

    Waulkmill

    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) - SMS Brummer offers some of Scapa Flow, Orkney's richest wreck diving. Water ranges 8-14°C, warmest July, August, September.

    Best timeYear-round
    WetsuitA drysuit
    Marine lifeBlue Whales, Dolphins, Dwarf Minke Whales, Humpback Whales and Ocean Sunfish (Mola Mola) · 140+ species recorded
    Water8-14°C · warmest July, August, September
    CharacterWreck dive
    StandoutRich in charismatic marine life

    The SMS Brummer, for us, is a standout in Scapa Flow. It’s got a distinct character, lying upside down in a way that creates these huge, cathedral-like spaces beneath the hull. You drop down, and the scale immediately hits you; we’re talking about a wreck nearly 130 metres long. Swimming along the upturned hull, you pass the massive barbettes and the holes where the torpedo tubes once sat. Inside, the light filters through gaps, creating an eerie, almost sacred glow, and you can see why it’s a favourite for wreck photographers. We love navigating the passages, especially when you find a common whelk or a bull rout tucked into a crevice. The corkwing wrasse are always darting about, and you might even spot a small scorpionfish camouflaged against the metal. Visibility here can be excellent, especially on a calm day, giving you that perfect view of the wreck stretching into the distance. It’s a site that rewards multiple dives; there’s always a new angle or another small section to explore. For divers who appreciate historical wrecks and enjoy a bit of overhead environment work, Brummer is a must. Just be mindful of the currents, which can pick up, especially around the exposed stern.

    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.

    Today06:4017:2010h 40m daylightGolden hour 16:24

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    Conditions

    Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for SMS Brummer

    SMS Brummer Ocean Conditions

    Monthly averages for SMS Brummer, sourced from Open-Meteo marine data - nearest station: Open-Meteo marine grid (58.64, -3.16) (8km away)

    ExcellentGreatGoodFairPoor★Best monthsThis month

    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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