Wreck of Lorne
Protected Area
Switha
Why dive here
With 140+ marine species recorded in the area - including blue whales, dolphins, dwarf minke whales, humpback whales and ocean sunfish (mola mola) - Wreck of Lorne offers some of Scapa Flow, Orkney's richest wreck diving. Water ranges 8-14°C, warmest July, August, September.
The Lorne sits in the often-overlooked Scapa Flow, a real testament to how nature reclaims history. We love this site for its incredible atmosphere, a properly moody dive that feels like stepping back in time. Dropping onto her, you’re met with a hull draped in thick oarweed, swaying gently with the surge. Look closely and you’ll find common brittlestars clinging to every surface, while butterfish dart in and out of the plating. We’ve spotted dogfish tucked into crevices and even the occasional Cuckoo Skate gliding by. She’s a relatively shallow wreck, making her accessible for less experienced wreck divers, but still offers plenty to explore for those who want to poke around. We always recommend taking your time to penetrate the shallower sections if you’re properly trained. Inside, the light filters through the rust, creating an eerie glow. It’s a fantastic example of a historical wreck that feels alive, not just a static museum piece. Visibility can vary, as with any Scapa Flow dive, so pick a calm day if you can for the best experience.
Safety Notes
Wreck site - avoid penetration without wreck diving certification. Watch for sharp metal and entanglement hazards.
Cold water this month (avg 13°C). Drysuit or thick wetsuit (7mm+) recommended.
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Conditions
Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for Wreck of Lorne
Wreck of Lorne Ocean Conditions
Monthly averages for Wreck of Lorne, sourced from Open-Meteo marine data - nearest station: Open-Meteo marine grid (58.64, -3.16) (8km away)
October Averages
Sea Temperature
13°C
55°F · Range: 11.4–13.8°C
Air Temperature
10°C
50°F
Wind Speed
9.26 m/s
18.0 knots
Atmospheric Pressure
1005.3 hPa
Based on 4 years of monitoring data · Data sources: Open-Meteo marine data
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