Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom
    Noss

    Wreck of Glenisla

    Good diving all year

    Protected Area

    Noss

    Why dive here

    With 140+ marine species recorded in the area - including blue whales, dolphins, dwarf minke whales, humpback whales and ocean sunfish (mola mola) - Wreck of Glenisla offers some of Scapa Flow, Orkney's richest wreck diving. Water ranges 8-14°C, warmest July, August, September.

    Best timeYear-round
    WetsuitA drysuit
    Marine lifeBlue Whales, Dolphins, Dwarf Minke Whales, Humpback Whales and Ocean Sunfish (Mola Mola) · 140+ species recorded
    Water8-14°C · warmest July, August, September
    CharacterWreck dive
    StandoutRich in charismatic marine life

    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.

    Safety Notes

    Wreck site - avoid penetration without wreck diving certification. Watch for sharp metal and entanglement hazards.

    Cold water this month (avg 13°C). Drysuit or thick wetsuit (7mm+) recommended.

    Today06:3417:1010h 36m daylightGolden hour 16:12

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    Conditions

    Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for Wreck of Glenisla

    Wreck of Glenisla Ocean Conditions

    Monthly averages for Wreck of Glenisla, sourced from Open-Meteo marine data - nearest station: Open-Meteo marine grid (58.64, -3.16) (8km away)

    ExcellentGreatGoodFairPoor★Best monthsThis month

    October Averages

    Sea Temperature

    13°C

    55°F · Range: 11.4–13.8°C

    Air Temperature

    10°C

    50°F

    Wind Speed

    9.26 m/s

    18.0 knots

    Atmospheric Pressure

    1005.3 hPa

    Based on 4 years of monitoring data · Data sources: Open-Meteo marine data

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