WILLIAM H WELCH (STERN SECTION) - Scapa Flow, Orkney

The *William H Welch* stern section is a fantastic shallow wreck dive, one we really enjoy when the weather’s a bit rough for deeper trips in Scapa Flow. It’s sitting upright in just a couple of metres of water, so it’s accessible for pretty much anyone – even snorkelers get a good view. You’re exploring the very back of a Liberty Ship, and the scale is still impressive despite the depth. We love finning over the propeller and rudder, which are surprisingly intact and offer great photographic opportunities. The sterncastle itself is quite broken up, but you can still make out the cargo holds and some of the superstructure. What makes this site special, though, isn’t just the history; it’s the life. Even in this meagre depth, the wreck is completely encrusted with plumose anemones, dead man's fingers, and kelp. We've often seen small pollock darting through the rusted metalwork, and the light filtering through the surface creates some lovely dappled effects on the wreck. It’s a completely different vibe from the deeper Scapa Flow wrecks, and a genuinely relaxing dive.

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
57.875534, -5.718683
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
2m

Marine Protected Area: Wester Ross

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 WILLIAM H WELCH (STERN SECTION)

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 WILLIAM H WELCH (STERN SECTION)

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 maximum depth of the WILLIAM H WELCH (STERN SECTION) dive site?
The maximum depth of the WILLIAM H WELCH (STERN SECTION) dive site is 2 meters. This shallow depth makes it accessible for many divers, offering a unique opportunity to explore a historical wreck.
What specific features of the stern section of the SS William H. Welch wreck, and what marine life, can divers expect to see?
Divers exploring the WILLIAM H WELCH (STERN SECTION) can expect to see the remains of a steam ship vessel, a Liberty Ship that sank on February 26, 1944. While specific details of the stern's features or marine life are not provided in the current data, the wreck itself, with its significant dimensions of 134.4m x 17.4m, offers a fascinating historical exploration. For more on marine life, you can visit our wildlife database.
How challenging is diving the WILLIAM H WELCH (STERN SECTION) for recreational divers, and what skill level is recommended?
Diving the WILLIAM H WELCH (STERN SECTION) is classified as intermediate difficulty for recreational divers. This suggests that divers should have some prior experience and comfort in various diving conditions.
What are the best months or seasons to dive the WILLIAM H WELCH (STERN SECTION) for optimal conditions?
The provided data does not specify the best months or seasons for optimal diving conditions at the WILLIAM H WELCH (STERN SECTION). We recommend checking local dive operator reports or visiting our when to dive guide for general information on diving in Scapa Flow.
What diving certifications are typically required or recommended to dive the WILLIAM H WELCH (STERN SECTION)?
The provided data does not specify particular diving certifications required or recommended for the WILLIAM H WELCH (STERN SECTION). Given its intermediate difficulty and shallow depth of 2 meters, a basic open water certification is likely sufficient, but local operators may have specific requirements. Always consult with your dive center for the most up-to-date information.
What are the typical current conditions and visibility like at the WILLIAM H WELCH (STERN SECTION) dive site?
The provided data does not include specific information regarding the typical current conditions or visibility at the WILLIAM H WELCH (STERN SECTION) dive site. Divers planning a trip to Scapa Flow should consult local dive operators for real-time conditions and forecasts.