Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom
    Switha

    Wreck of Lorne

    Good diving all year

    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.

    Best timeYear-round
    WetsuitA drysuit
    Marine lifeBlue Whales, Dolphins, Dwarf Minke Whales, Humpback Whales and Ocean Sunfish (Mola Mola) · 140+ species recorded
    Water8-14°C · warmest July, August, September
    CharacterWreck dive
    StandoutRich in charismatic marine life

    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.

    Today06:3917:1910h 40m daylightGolden hour 16:23

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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)

    ExcellentGreatGoodFairPoor★Best monthsThis month

    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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