USTETIND - Scapa Flow, Orkney

The *Ustetind* isn't a deep dive, by any stretch – you’re barely getting your fins wet, maxing out at a metre. But don’t let that fool you. This is an absolutely unique Scapa experience, a proper wreck that just happens to sit at the intertidal zone. We love how the wreck is broken up, her ribs and plates scattered across the sand and amongst the rocks at Silwick. What really gets us about the *Ustetind* is the light. Diving a wreck this shallow, particularly on a sunny day, is a completely different ballgame. Sunlight filters through the water, illuminating every rusted bolt and twisted plate. You can spend ages just tracing the outline of her collapsed bow, watching the small crabs scuttle through the crevices. It’s an ideal site for macro photography, or for anyone who fancies a snorkel with a proper piece of history right below them. The *Ustetind* is a reminder that Scapa’s history isn’t all about big battleships in the depths; sometimes, the best stories are found right on the shoreline.

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
60.166134, -1.485230
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
1m

Marine Protected Area: Shetland

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 USTETIND

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 USTETIND

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 scuba diving at Ustetind?
The typical depth for scuba diving at the Ustetind dive site is 1 meter. This makes it an exceptionally shallow dive, suitable for exploring the distributed remains of this historic wreck.
What kind of marine life and underwater topography can divers expect to see at Ustetind?
At Ustetind, divers can expect to explore the distributed remains of a motor vessel, which went to pieces at Silwick. The underwater topography primarily consists of the scattered components of this 49m x 9m wreck. While specific marine life details are not provided, wreck sites often attract various species; you can learn more about common species in the region via our wildlife database.
How difficult is diving at Ustetind, and is it suitable for beginner divers?
Diving at Ustetind is classified as intermediate difficulty. While the depth is very shallow at 1 meter, the nature of exploring distributed wreck remains may require some experience beyond that of an absolute beginner. Therefore, it is generally not recommended for novice divers without appropriate supervision or prior experience with wreck sites.
What is the best time of year to dive at Ustetind for optimal conditions and visibility?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year to dive at Ustetind for optimal conditions and visibility. For general guidance on diving in Scapa Flow, we recommend consulting our When to Dive section for regional climate patterns and seasonal recommendations.
Are there any specific scuba diving certifications required to dive at Ustetind?
While the data does not explicitly state specific scuba diving certifications required for Ustetind, its classification as an intermediate dive suggests that at least an Open Water Diver certification is advisable. Given it's a wreck site, additional training in wreck diving or advanced open water skills could enhance your experience and safety. Always check with local dive operators for their specific requirements.
What are the usual water currents and visibility conditions like at the Ustetind dive site?
The provided data for Ustetind does not include details on usual water currents or visibility conditions. As conditions can vary, especially in areas like Scapa Flow, it's always best to consult local dive centers or guides for the most current information before planning your dive.