SMS Kronprinz Wilhelm - Scapa Flow, Orkney

The SMS Kronprinz Wilhelm sits in Scapa Flow at a depth between 25 and 40 metres, an advanced dive that really delivers. We love the sheer scale of this dreadnought battleship. Dropping down, you’re greeted by the ghostly outline of the hull, and then the colossal gun turrets emerge, still menacing after all these years. Exploring the decks, you’ll find plenty of open areas, though some penetration is possible for those with the right training. This wreck isn't just about the history; it's a thriving artificial reef. Look out for Atlantic cod darting in and out of the structure, and we’ve seen plenty of Common sea stars clinging to the metalwork. The North Sea Tube Anemones are everywhere, little flashes of colour against the rusted steel. Our favourite time to dive here is on a calm day with good visibility, which, let’s be honest, is never a given in Orkney, but when it happens, it transforms the dive. The Kronprinz Wilhelm is a proper battleship experience, a dive that makes you feel small and insignificant against its massive frame.

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
58.870000, -3.090000
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
25-40m
Difficulty
Advanced

Marine Protected Area: Switha

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 SMS Kronprinz Wilhelm

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 SMS Kronprinz Wilhelm

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