Wreck of Cairnmona - Scapa Flow, Orkney

The wreck of the Holland is one of Scapa Flow’s less-dived treasures, and for us, that’s part of its charm. Descending onto this old blockship, you’re immediately struck by its age, the way the steel has softened and been consumed by the cold, green water. It’s not about grand, intact structures here. Instead, you find a wonderfully broken-up vessel, its plates twisted and its holds open to the light. We love exploring the scattered debris field, tracing the outline of what was once a purposeful ship, now a series of dramatic metal sculptures. You’ll encounter surprisingly large common lobsters tucked into crevices, their antennae waving as you pass. The wreck’s surfaces are textured with light-bulb sea squirts and the dark fronds of spiral wrack, creating a vibrant contrast against the corroded metal. It’s a dive that rewards slow, deliberate exploration, perfect for those who appreciate history and the slow reclamation of man-made objects by the ocean. We’d suggest heading here on a quieter day, perhaps an afternoon dive, to truly appreciate the solitude. The visibility can vary, but even in murkier conditions, the wreck’s character shines through.

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
57.629402, -1.729725
Type
wreck

Marine Protected Area: Loch of Strathbeg

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 Cairnmona

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 Cairnmona

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