Wreck of Endeavour - Scapa Flow, Orkney

The Endeavour, lying upright and proud in Scapa Flow, is a proper introduction to the wrecks here. We love how accessible she is, starting around 15 metres, making her a solid choice for those still building confidence in overhead environments. Dropping down, you’ll quickly see the sheer scale, the bow still sharply defined, pointing towards the surface. Keep an eye out for the resident wrasse darting between the deck plates, and we often spot conger eels peeking from the deeper internal spaces. Explore the superstructure; penetration is straightforward for those with the right training, revealing the ghostly remains of her engine room. The ambient light filtering through the Orkney water gives the whole dive a moody, historical feel. It's a dive that invites exploration, not just observation, especially if you spend time looking into the smaller nooks where the squat lobsters hide. She offers enough to keep you occupied for a full dive, without feeling overwhelming.

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
57.482470, -1.788181
Type
wreck

Marine Protected Area: Bullers of Buchan Coast

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 Endeavour

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 Endeavour

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