Wreck of Carron - Scapa Flow, Orkney

The *Edward VII* isn’t one of the scuttled German fleet, but she holds her own as a prime example of a battleship wreck. We love the scale of her, a massive outline on the seabed, usually resting at around 20-25m. Dropping down, you’ll often find yourself enveloped in a greenish glow, a common Scapa Flow welcome, but as your eyes adjust, the sheer bulk of her emerges. Visibility can be a real lottery here. On a good day, when the light penetrates, you can make out the huge gun turrets, some still pointing defiantly. Our favourite part is exploring the deck, now a habitat for all sorts of cold-water life. Look for the cracks and crevices where whiting dart in and out, and the sturdy growth of oarweed and Irish moss clinging to the steel. The porpoises sometimes cruise past on the surface, a fleeting grey flash. The *Edward VII* is a proper historical dive, perfect for those who appreciate wrecks for their engineering and their eerie beauty. Just be prepared for the chill and the sometimes-moody visibility.

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
58.842180, -2.902222
Type
wreck

Marine Protected Area: Switha

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 Carron

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 Carron

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