25-45m
    Advanced
    Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom
    Waulkmill

    SMS Markgraf

    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 Markgraf 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 · max 25-45m
    StandoutRich in charismatic marine life

    The SMS Markgraf, for us, is Scapa Flow’s heavyweight champion. It’s a beast of a wreck, lying on its port side, and its sheer scale just dwarfs you. Dropping down, you’re often enveloped in that classic Scapa Flow green, the light diffused, which only adds to the atmosphere. We love tracing the length of the hull, feeling the immense presence of this battleship, knowing the history that surrounds it. The main gun turrets are a real draw, colossal structures now encrusted with colourful anemones and dead man's fingers. Peer into the darker recesses, and you might spot a wolf-fish tucked away, or a curious dogfish cruising by. The current can be noticeable here, so pick your slack water carefully. Our favourite time to dive it is when there’s a gentle drift, letting you glide along the deck, past the massive superstructure. It’s an advanced dive, no doubt, but the rewards are immense. The Markgraf demands respect, but gives back a dive experience that stays with you long after you’ve surfaced.

    Typical SMS Markgraf Dive Profile

    10m20mSafety Stop0m25m max~30 min estimated bottom time

    Illustrative profile based on site depth and type. Actual dive profiles vary - always follow your dive computer and training.

    Safety Notes

    Depth of 25m - Advanced Open Water certification recommended.

    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.

    Always perform a 3-minute safety stop at 5m before surfacing.

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

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    Conditions

    Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for SMS Markgraf

    SMS Markgraf Ocean Conditions

    Monthly averages for SMS Markgraf, 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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