wreck

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Wreck of Empire Parsons

The Empire Parsons is one of Scapa Flow's real characters, and for us, it’s always a strong contender for a second dive. We're talking about a big old cargo steamer, torpedoed in 1944 and now resting upright on a sandy bottom, broken into two main sections. Dropping down, you’ll often feel that familiar chill of the Flow’s water, but the reward is immense. You can trace the deck, pick out the cargo holds, and often spot the massive boilers, which always feel like the beating heart of the ship, even after all these years. What we really love about the Parsons is how accessible it is for divers with a bit of wreck experience. Penetration is possible in places, especially into the holds, but even just exploring the exterior offers so much. Look closely, and you'll find the metalwork completely encrusted – a tapestry of plumose anemones, dead man's fingers, and those bright orange dahlia anemones. Poor cod dart in and out of every crevice, and we've regularly seen curious curled octopus tucked away in the darker corners. Visibility can be a bit variable, so we always suggest checking the local conditions, but even in moderate vis, the sheer scale of the wreck provides plenty to focus on. It’s not just a piece of history; it’s a living reef, adapting and evolving in that iconic northern water.