Wreck of Glide - Scapa Flow, Orkney

The **Wreck of Glide** offers a poignant dive into maritime history, lying within Scapa Flow's vast natural harbour. This is a cold water dive, so prepare for that chill, but the rewards are significant. The wreck itself is a captivating structure; we particularly love descending into the holds, where natural light filters through openings, illuminating the ghostly remains of what was once a working vessel. Visibility here can vary wildly, from a few metres to a decent 15, so check local reports. When it's clear, you can trace the ship's lines, imagining its final moments. Keep an eye out for the resident wrasse and squat lobsters that have made the decaying metal their home. We’ve had some fantastic encounters here with curious conger eels peeking from dark corners. It’s a dive that rewards slow exploration rather than a frantic dash, perfect for those who appreciate the quiet solemnity of a historical site now repurposed by nature.

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
58.330383, -6.021307
Type
wreck

Marine Protected Area: North-east Lewis

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 Glide

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 Glide

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