SUNBEAM
Protected Area
John o' Groats
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) - SUNBEAM offers some of Scapa Flow, Orkney's richest wreck diving. Water ranges 8-14°C, warmest July, August, September.
The Sunbeam, a drifter sunk by gunfire in 1915, sits in a remarkably shallow 2 metres of water. It's an accessible wreck for almost anyone, and while it’s not one of Scapa's colossal German battleships, it offers a surprisingly intimate look at a wartime casualty. You’ll find its remains broken but still recognisable, with parts of the hull and machinery providing cover for crabs and small fish. It’s a great spot for an easy second dive, or for those just getting their fins wet on a historical wreck, offering a genuine sense of history without the need for deep diving skills.
Typical SUNBEAM Dive Profile
Illustrative profile based on site depth and type. Actual dive profiles vary - always follow your dive computer and training.
Safety Notes
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.
Nearest Dive Centres to SUNBEAM
Dive shops near SUNBEAM
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Conditions
Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for SUNBEAM
SUNBEAM Ocean Conditions
Monthly averages for SUNBEAM, sourced from Open-Meteo marine data - nearest station: Open-Meteo marine grid (58.64, -3.16) (8km away)
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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