Wreck of Guiding Star - Scapa Flow, Orkney

The Guiding Star sits deep in Scapa Flow, an echo of the fishing fleet that once worked these waters. It’s not one of the big German battleships, but that’s precisely why we love it. This is a working boat, relatively intact, resting on its starboard side. Descending through the cool, green water, you’ll start to pick out the mast, then the wheelhouse. Our favourite part has to be the stern. You can really get a sense of the vessel’s original purpose here. There are still parts of the trawl gear visible, encrusted with anemones and the occasional squat lobster peeking out from behind a growth. We’d suggest exploring the holds too; they’re often full of curious pollack and sometimes a grumpy conger eel. Visibility can vary, so pick a slack tide if you can for the best chance to take it all in. It’s a rewarding dive for those who appreciate maritime history and the quiet beauty of a wreck reclaimed by the sea.

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
57.956593, -5.521013
Type
wreck

Marine Protected Area: Wester Ross

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 Guiding Star

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 Guiding Star

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