wreck

Log This Dive

SMS Karlsruhe

We’ve visited Scapa Flow more times than we can count, and the SMS Karlsruhe remains one of our favourite dives. Forget a gentle drift or a pretty reef; this is about history, plain and simple, and that’s what we love about it. The Karlsruhe lies on its starboard side, which makes for some incredible swim-throughs. You’ll drop down onto the hull, then it’s a matter of picking your way along the deck, where the superstructures have collapsed in on themselves. We’d suggest heading straight for the bridge area – it’s a real jumble of metal, but in a clear vis day, the light shafts can be pretty dramatic. The biggest thrill here, for us, is seeing how nature reclaims these giants. The wreck is absolutely carpeted in Star ascidians, and the deeper you go, the more you see. Look out for the resident saithe darting through the openings, and if you’re lucky, a common seal might give you a fly-by. Current can be a factor, so time your dive carefully around slack water for the best experience. It's a proper wreck dive, best suited for those comfortable navigating dark, enclosed spaces, and it truly offers a tangible connection to the past.