Wreck of Fruitful Bough - Scapa Flow, Orkney

The *Fruitful Bough* is one of Scapa Flow's quieter corners, a smaller trawler that’s often overlooked for the German High Seas Fleet giants, and that’s precisely why we love it. Descending onto her deck, you’re not fighting currents or crowds, just settling into a peaceful exploration. We’ve always found the stern to be particularly photogenic, with the rudder and propeller still largely intact, covered in those vibrant orange and purple dahlia anemones that thrive in Scapa’s chillier waters. She’s broken up a bit, revealing internal machinery, but it’s still very much a ship, not just a debris field. Look closely for the wolf fish that have made the hold their home – they’re shy, but if you hang back for a moment, you might get a glimpse of their toothy grins. The visibility here can be superb, especially on an incoming tide, offering a clear view of the entire wreck from above before you drop down for a closer inspection. It’s a dive that rewards slow, deliberate exploration, perfect for those who appreciate the quiet dignity of a well-preserved wreck without the bustle of the more popular sites.

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
57.245500, -2.039752
Type
wreck

Marine Protected Area: Foveran Links

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 Fruitful Bough

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 Fruitful Bough

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