wreck

Log This Dive

Wreck of Isleford

The *Isleford* isn't one of the Scapa Flow giants, but we love her for exactly that. Lying in the shallower waters, she’s a fantastic introduction to wreck diving in Orkney, or a relaxed second dive after exploring one of the deeper German High Seas Fleet ships. What you lose in sheer scale, you gain in penetration opportunities and the sheer volume of sea squirts that encrust almost every surface. We’ve spent many a decompression stop finning through the wheelhouse, seeing the light filter through portholes, and watching butterfish dart into the gloom. Look closely at the metalwork; you’ll spot light-bulb sea squirts and star ascidians in brilliant yellows and purples, creating an almost technicolour blanket over the steel. Dog whelks cling to plating, and common brittlestars wave their arms from crevices. Keep an eye out for curious seals too; they often make an appearance, particularly if the dive boat is quiet. It’s a site that really comes alive when you slow down and take in the details.