Wreck of Alexanders - Scapa Flow, Orkney

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.

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
57.724117, -6.310621
Type
wreck

Marine Protected Area: Rubha Hunish

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 Alexanders

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 Alexanders

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