Wreck of Maria-W - Scapa Flow, Orkney

The Maria-W is one of our favourite dives in Scapa Flow, especially if you’re into penetrating wrecks that feel like a proper time capsule. She's not one of the scuttled German fleet, but a much later cargo vessel that went down in 1960. You drop onto her deck at about 18 metres, and she’s mostly intact, listing hard to starboard. The wheelhouse is a great starting point, surprisingly open, then you can follow her down into the cargo holds. Inside, it’s dark, silty, and utterly atmospheric – torch beams cutting through the gloom reveal stacks of coal, which was her cargo. This isn't a deep dive, but it feels substantial. We love the way the light filters through the deeper sections, picking out cod and pollack resting in the shadowed corners. Visibility here can be excellent, making the scale of the holds even more impressive. It’s a dive that rewards careful exploration, perfect for divers with some wreck experience looking for a genuine journey into the past.

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
57.391445, -1.856681
Type
wreck

Marine Protected Area: Buchan Ness to Collieston

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 Maria-W

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 Maria-W

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