Wreck of Hansi - Scapa Flow, Orkney

The Empire Parsons is one of Scapa Flow's real characters, and for us, it’s always a strong contender for a second dive. We're talking about a big old cargo steamer, torpedoed in 1944 and now resting upright on a sandy bottom, broken into two main sections. Dropping down, you’ll often feel that familiar chill of the Flow’s water, but the reward is immense. You can trace the deck, pick out the cargo holds, and often spot the massive boilers, which always feel like the beating heart of the ship, even after all these years. What we really love about the Parsons is how accessible it is for divers with a bit of wreck experience. Penetration is possible in places, especially into the holds, but even just exploring the exterior offers so much. Look closely, and you'll find the metalwork completely encrusted – a tapestry of plumose anemones, dead man's fingers, and those bright orange dahlia anemones. Poor cod dart in and out of every crevice, and we've regularly seen curious curled octopus tucked away in the darker corners. Visibility can be a bit variable, so we always suggest checking the local conditions, but even in moderate vis, the sheer scale of the wreck provides plenty to focus on. It’s not just a piece of history; it’s a living reef, adapting and evolving in that iconic northern water.

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
59.382870, -2.386171
Type
wreck

Marine Protected Area: Northwall

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 Hansi

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 Hansi

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