Wreck of Hsl 117 - Scapa Flow, Orkney

The HSL 117 is a different kind of Scapa Flow wreck, and we love it for that. She’s a High Speed Launch from World War II, sunk in the 1940s, and rests intact in fairly shallow water. You can still make out the machine gun turret, the twin Packard engines, and the general lines of her sleek hull. We’ve always found this site to be wonderfully atmospheric, particularly when the sunlight filters through the kelp, illuminating the wreck’s details. It’s an excellent dive for those who appreciate history and enjoy exploring a more accessible wreck. The mast reaches up, a signpost covered in plumose anemones, and the deck offers plenty to poke around in, with various fish darting in and out of the structure. Given the relatively shallow depth, it’s a great spot for a longer dive, allowing time to really soak in the details and perhaps even spot some of the resident wrasse or blennies. The visibility can vary, but even on a murkier day, the wreck’s defined shape still makes for an engaging dive. We’d suggest going at slack water for the easiest conditions.

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
59.537820, -1.605690
Type
wreck

Marine Protected Area: Fair Isle

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 Hsl 117

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 Hsl 117

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