Wreck of Hylas (Possibly) - Scapa Flow, Orkney

The HMT Royal Edward offers a profound dive, a proper piece of history right here in the Mediterranean. We love a wreck with a story, and this former troopship, sunk in 1915, tells a grim one. You descend onto what feels like a ghost, an enormous, broken hull resting on the seabed, typically in pretty good visibility that lets the full scale sink in. Expect to see vast sections of the ship’s structure – ribs, decks, and bulkheads – now heavily encrusted and serving as artificial reefs. Schools of white seabream drift through the shadows, while wrasse pick at the growth. Look closely, and you'll spot red lionfish tucked into crevices and the occasional marbled spinefoot grazing on algae. The Royal Edward isn't about intact cabins or machinery; it's about the sheer size and the feeling of diving through a moment frozen in time. This dive suits experienced wreck divers who appreciate historical context over colourful corals. The depth and potential currents mean it’s not for beginners, but for those with the skills, it’s a truly humbling experience.

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
58.647625, -5.784176
Type
wreck

Marine Protected Area: Loch na Cartach

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 Hylas (Possibly)

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 Hylas (Possibly)

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