Wreck of Aorangi - Scapa Flow, Orkney

The Clestrain Sound wreck, one of Scapa Flow's lesser-dived historical sites, offers a quieter, more reflective experience than the famous German battleships. We love it because it’s a tangible piece of Orkney’s maritime history, often overlooked. Dropping down, you’ll find a tugboat, thought to be the *YTL 318*, a victim of a collision in 1957. She rests upright, mostly intact, her wheelhouse still discernible, which makes for some great swim-throughs if you're comfortable with overhead environments. This isn't a massive wreck, but its charm lies in the details. You can explore the engine room, still holding glimpses of its working past. Visibility here often exceeds what you get on the main blockships, and the light filtering down through the relatively shallow depth really illuminates the vibrant jewel anemones that have colonised every surface. Keep an eye out for the curious curled octopus, often tucked into crevices, and the dogfish cruising the perimeter. It’s an ideal dive for those looking to combine wreck exploration with some genuinely rich macro life, away from the crowds.

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
58.890150, -2.863383
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 Aorangi

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 Aorangi

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