Wreck of Ebro - Scapa Flow, Orkney

Diving the *Ebro* in Scapa Flow, you’re not just exploring a wreck, you’re touching a piece of history. This Blockship, deliberately sunk in 1919 to defend the Flow, lies scattered but substantial, a fantastic example of Scapa's wartime legacy. We love dropping onto the stern, where the prop shaft still points defiantly skyward, often swarming with pollack. Visibility here is typical for Scapa, often a cool 8-15 metres, but it's enough to appreciate the scale. You'll navigate through twisted metal plates, parts of the engine room exposed, all encrusted in an Orkney tapestry of plumose anemones and dead man's fingers. Our favourite moment is finning through the debris field, where you can spot discarded bottles and other small artefacts, a tangible link to the past. It’s a dive for those who appreciate history as much as marine life, offering a unique blend of exploration and reflection.

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
57.620888, -1.850993
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 Ebro

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 Ebro

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