Wreck of Gretafield (After Part) - Scapa Flow, Orkney

The Merrivale feels special to us. It's not one of the big German warships, but that's exactly why we love it. This blockship, deliberately sunk in 1940 to protect Scapa Flow, lies in about 15 metres of water, making it surprisingly accessible. We usually find pretty decent visibility here, maybe 8 to 10 metres on a good day, allowing you to appreciate the sheer scale of the old steam trawler. Dropping down, you're immediately struck by the stern section, still quite intact, with its rudder and propellor often silhouetted against the ambient light. We often poke around the debris field where the bow once was, finding old boilers and plates now completely encrusted with colourful plumose anemones, vibrant reds and oranges just popping against the muted grey metal. Keep an eye out for the resident wrasse darting between the crevices and the occasional inquisitive common lobster peeking from beneath a plate. It’s a quiet, reflective dive, perfect for those who appreciate the history and the way nature reclaims these sunken relics. We’d suggest a gentle fin, taking your time to absorb the atmosphere.

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
58.241830, -3.427100
Type
wreck

Marine Protected Area: East Caithness Cliffs

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 Gretafield (After Part)

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 Gretafield (After Part)

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