ST ROGNVALD - Scapa Flow, Orkney

The *St Rognvald* offers a shallow, scattered dive in Scapa Flow, perfect for those days when the deeper wrecks feel a bit too much. You’ll find her bones spread across the seabed, the iron plates and frames now home to a surprising amount of life, considering the depth. Look closely and you'll spot wrasse darting between encrusted ribs and anemones clinging to rusted machinery. It’s a great site for photographers keen on macro shots or newer divers looking to experience Scapa's history without the chill of deeper water. We often use it as a good warm-up dive.

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
59.092900, -2.525667
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
2m

Marine Protected Area: Auskerry

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 ST ROGNVALD

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 ST ROGNVALD

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current depth of the ST ROGNVALD shipwreck for divers?
The ST ROGNVALD shipwreck is remarkably shallow, with a current depth of just 2 meters. This makes it an accessible site for many divers exploring Scapa Flow. You can find more details about this specific wreck, a steam ship vessel, on its dedicated page.
What kind of marine life and wreck features can divers expect to see at the ST ROGNVALD dive site?
Divers exploring the ST ROGNVALD can expect to encounter the distributed remains of this 73.4m x 9.5m iron steamship, built in 1883. Notable features include its two boilers and the compound expansion engine, which once drove a single shaft. While specific marine life isn't detailed in the site description, wrecks often serve as artificial reefs, attracting various species over time; you can learn more about common species in the region via our wildlife database.
How challenging is diving the ST ROGNVALD wreck, considering its location in Orkney waters?
Diving the ST ROGNVALD wreck is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive. While its shallow depth of 2 meters might suggest ease, conditions in Scapa Flow, Orkney, can sometimes present challenges requiring a good level of diving experience. Divers should be prepared for varying conditions typical of the region.
What is the best time of year to dive the ST ROGNVALD for optimal conditions?
The provided data for the ST ROGNVALD does not specify the best time of year for optimal diving conditions. However, for general guidance on diving in Scapa Flow and the wider United Kingdom, we recommend consulting our When to Dive section for seasonal insights and typical conditions.
What diving certifications are required to explore the ST ROGNVALD shipwreck?
Given the ST ROGNVALD is rated as an intermediate difficulty dive, divers should possess at least an Open Water certification or equivalent, along with experience in similar conditions. While no specific advanced certifications are explicitly required, proficiency in buoyancy control and wreck diving techniques would be beneficial for exploring its distributed remains. Always ensure your equipment is suitable for the conditions.
Are there strong currents or specific water conditions to be aware of when diving the ST ROGNVALD?
The provided data for the ST ROGNVALD does not explicitly detail strong currents or specific water conditions. However, as an intermediate dive site in Scapa Flow, divers should always be prepared for potentially variable conditions, including tidal influences and visibility changes common in Orkney waters. It's always advisable to check local dive reports before planning your dive.