TRANSCEND - Scapa Flow, Orkney

TRANSCEND sits in a deep corner of Scapa, a fishing vessel with a surprisingly upright stance. We love this wreck for its accessibility, a proper dive but without the deeper technical demands of some of the German fleet. You drop onto the wheelhouse, and from there, it's a straightforward explore down the decks. We’ve always found the hold particularly atmospheric, a dark cavern that your torch beam just about reaches across, often with a curious ling eyeing you from the gloom. This isn't a wreck teeming with history like the battleships, but it has a real character. The propeller is still there, a solid bronze contrast against the steel, and the deck machinery makes for some interesting photography. We'd suggest checking your dive computer often here; the depth can sneak up on you as you explore the bow and stern. It’s a great dive for those comfortable with deeper wrecks, offering a different flavour to the military history Scapa Flow is famous for.

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
58.805170, -4.357200
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
52m

Marine Protected Area: Sule Stack

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 TRANSCEND

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 TRANSCEND

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 typical depth range for diving at the Transcend dive site?
The Transcend dive site, located in Scapa Flow, has a maximum depth of 52m. As a wreck dive, divers will explore the various parts of this fishing vessel down to its deepest point.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at Transcend?
Divers at the Transcend site will primarily explore the remains of a 21.8m x 6.3m fishing vessel, which sank on February 14, 2004. While specific marine life is not detailed, wrecks often become artificial reefs, attracting various local species. You can learn more about general marine life by visiting our wildlife database.
How challenging is the Transcend dive site, and is it suitable for beginner divers?
The Transcend dive site is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive. Due to its depth of 52m and the nature of wreck diving, it is not suitable for beginner divers. Divers should possess appropriate experience and certifications for such challenging conditions.
What is the best time of year or season to dive at Transcend for optimal conditions?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year or season for optimal diving conditions at the Transcend site. For general information on seasonal diving in the Scapa Flow area, please consult our when to dive guide.
What scuba diving certifications are required to dive at the Transcend site?
Given the Transcend dive site's maximum depth of 52m and its classification as an intermediate difficulty wreck dive, divers will require advanced or technical diving certifications. These certifications ensure divers have the necessary training and experience for deep and potentially challenging wreck environments.
What are the typical currents and water conditions like at the Transcend dive site?
The provided data does not include specific information regarding the typical currents or water conditions at the Transcend dive site. Divers planning a trip to Scapa Flow should consult local dive operators for up-to-date conditions.