Wreck of Collingdoc - Scapa Flow, Orkney

The Pentland Firth, a trawler sunk by a mine in 1918, feels like a proper piece of history down in Scapa Flow. It’s not one of the massive German fleet wrecks, but that’s precisely why we love it. The scale is more intimate, allowing you to really get a feel for the vessel. We’d suggest dropping onto the stern, which sits upright, before working your way forward. You’ll find the bow section a bit more broken up, but still incredibly atmospheric. Inside the holds, the light-bulb sea squirts glow with an ethereal quality, clinging to the bulkheads. Common lobsters often peer out from crevices, their antennae twitching in your torch beam. Look closely for jewel anemones painting the metalwork in flashes of orange and pink. It’s an ideal dive for those who appreciate exploring a compact wreck, where you can easily navigate without feeling overwhelmed, perfect for photographers or divers looking to truly connect with a piece of the past. Just remember your drysuit; this is Orkney, after all, and the chill adds to the historical weight.

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
58.839336, -2.903985
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 Collingdoc

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 Collingdoc

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