SMS Kronprinz Wilhelm - Scapa Flow, Orkney

The SMS Kronprinz Wilhelm is a serious hulk, no doubt about it. We’ve always found her impressive, a real contrast to some of the more broken-up wrecks in Scapa Flow. She lies over on her port side, mostly intact, which means you get that real sense of scale as you descend. The sheer armoured plate feels like staring up at a cliff face. We love the way the light filters down, even on a grey Orkney day, catching the jewel anemones that carpet her decks and superstructures. Inside, the engine rooms are a highlight. Penetration here feels proper, like stepping into history. We’d suggest a good torch, as it gets pretty dark in there, but the payoff is worth it – you might even spot a curious curled octopus tucked into a pipe. The deck guns are still in place, enormous things, and we always spend a minute just imagining the sheer destructive power they once wielded. This wreck is perfect for experienced wreck divers who appreciate an intact behemoth with plenty to explore, a true piece of engineering history now home to a surprising amount of invertebrate life.

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
58.894165, -3.163056
Type
wreck

Marine Protected Area: Waulkmill

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