Wreck of Ac6 - Scapa Flow, Orkney

Dropping onto the Urmstone Grange, you immediately feel the scale. This isn't some scattered debris; it's a solid, industrial wreck. We love how intact the stern section feels, almost like she just settled there yesterday, rather than nearly a century ago. The holds are our favourite part to explore, especially when the light is good enough to pick out the details of the internal structures. Look for the massive prop, too, often shrouded in dabs and tiny crabs. The wreck itself has a moody, atmospheric character. It's colder here, darker than most diving, but that's part of its charm. Visibility, typically 5-10 metres, lends an eerie feel. You’ll often spot massive plumose anemones carpeting the deeper sections, their white frills swaying gently. We’ve seen conger eels poking out from shadowy corners and schools of saithe darting through the superstructure. It suits divers who appreciate history, enjoy penetrations, and don't mind a bit of chill for a unique experience. Come prepared for cold water, even in summer, and bring a good torch; you’ll want it for peering into those deeper holds.

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
58.880690, -2.901681
Type
wreck

Marine Protected Area: Copinsay

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 Wreck of Ac6

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 Wreck of Ac6

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