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Wreck of Alexanders

The Blockship Alexanders is one of Scapa Flow's lesser-sung heroes, often overlooked for the big German battleships, but we think that’s a mistake. We love its character, a shallow wreck dive that feels like a proper expedition. Dropping onto the deck at just 8-10 metres, you're immediately struck by the sheer scale of the old steam trawler, deliberately scuttled in 1917 to block the eastern entrance to the Flow. What makes Alexanders a standout for us is the way the wreck has become a living reef. Giant plumose anemones smother the superstructure, their white tentacles swaying gently in the slight current. You’ll weave through the skeletal remains of the deck, spotting wrasse darting between encrusted metalwork and inquisitive conger eels peering from dark holes. The bow, in particular, is a fantastic spot, often hosting shoals of juvenile fish. It’s a dive that suits divers who appreciate history and marine life equally, and it's brilliant for photographers looking to capture both wreck detail and vibrant colour in shallower conditions. Our tip: go at slack water on a sunny day for the best light penetration and visibility. You’ll feel the chill, but it’s worth it.