Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom
    Nigg & Udale Bays

    Wreck of Allan

    Good diving all year

    Protected Area

    Nigg & Udale Bays

    Why dive here

    With 140+ marine species recorded in the area - including blue whales, dolphins, dwarf minke whales, humpback whales and ocean sunfish (mola mola) - Wreck of Allan offers some of Scapa Flow, Orkney's richest wreck diving. Water ranges 8-14°C, warmest July, August, September.

    Best timeYear-round
    WetsuitA drysuit
    Marine lifeBlue Whales, Dolphins, Dwarf Minke Whales, Humpback Whales and Ocean Sunfish (Mola Mola) · 140+ species recorded
    Water8-14°C · warmest July, August, September
    CharacterWreck dive
    StandoutRich in charismatic marine life

    The Allan, a humble blockship, doesn't get the same fanfare as some of Scapa Flow's behemoths, but we've always had a soft spot for her. Dropping down, you hit the bow first, often enveloped in the perpetual green twilight that makes diving here so atmospheric. You’ll find the wreck relatively intact, sitting upright, with the bow section being our favourite part to explore. Look for the anchor chain disappearing into the gloom. Visibility can be a real character, swinging from 15 metres to a silty five, but even on murkier days, the Allan has a way of revealing herself. Conger eels are nearly guaranteed residents, peeking from nooks and crannies. We’ve also seen nudibranchs, often on the deck plating, so bring your macro lens. It's a great second dive after one of the bigger battleships, offering a calmer pace without sacrificing that distinct Scapa Flow feel. The Allan is a dive for those who appreciate history and don't mind a bit of a treasure hunt in the low light.

    Safety Notes

    Wreck site - avoid penetration without wreck diving certification. Watch for sharp metal and entanglement hazards.

    Cold water this month (avg 13°C). Drysuit or thick wetsuit (7mm+) recommended.

    Today06:4217:2610h 44m daylightGolden hour 16:32

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    Conditions

    Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for Wreck of Allan

    Wreck of Allan Ocean Conditions

    Monthly averages for Wreck of Allan, sourced from Open-Meteo marine data - nearest station: Open-Meteo marine grid (58.64, -3.16) (8km away)

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    October Averages

    Sea Temperature

    13°C

    55°F · Range: 11.4–13.8°C

    Air Temperature

    10°C

    50°F

    Wind Speed

    9.26 m/s

    18.0 knots

    Atmospheric Pressure

    1005.3 hPa

    Based on 4 years of monitoring data · Data sources: Open-Meteo marine data

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