Wreck of Glenisla - Scapa Flow, Orkney

The *Glenisla*, or what’s left of her after that run-in with the *Loch Shiel*, is a cracker of a dive if you’re into the skeletal remains of old ships. We love how she’s broken into such distinct sections, scattered across the seafloor. You drop down, and the first thing you notice is the sheer scale of the twisted metal, all draped in kelp. It’s a proper archaeological dive, you’re piecing together the story with every fin kick. Our favourite part has to be the stern section, it’s still relatively intact, with enough nooks and crannies to keep you busy. Keep an eye out for the plumose anemones, they absolutely carpet some of the plates, swaying gently in the slight current. You’ll find plenty of inquisitive wrasse darting in and out, and the occasional ling or conger eel tucked away in the darker recesses. Visibility can be a bit variable here, so we’d suggest timing your dive for slack water and aiming for a sunny day if you can, it really helps illuminate the wreck. This one’s best for divers who appreciate the history as much as the marine life, and who don’t mind a bit of a rummage amongst the wreckage.

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
60.131653, -1.133874
Type
wreck

Marine Protected Area: Noss

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 Glenisla

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 Glenisla

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