15-30m
    Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom
    Copinsay

    Wreck of Minieh

    Good diving all year

    Protected Area

    Copinsay

    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 Minieh 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 · max 15-30m
    StandoutRich in charismatic marine life

    The Minieh is one of those Scapa Flow wrecks that really gets under your skin. We love it because it’s not just a pile of plates; it’s a proper ship with character, lying on its starboard side, largely intact. You drop down onto the hull and immediately feel the history, the silence broken only by your own bubbles. Inside, the holds are open, inviting you to explore – just be mindful of the silt, it kicks up quick. What makes Minieh special is the way the marine life has completely reclaimed it. Dulse carpets the decks, and you’ll find poor cod darting through the superstructure. Look closely and you might spot thornback skates tucked away, or even a dogfish snoozing in a shadowy corner. We’d suggest focusing on the bow and stern sections; they tend to be the most interesting architecturally, with some cool penetration options if you’re properly trained and equipped. It’s a dive that suits those who appreciate the quiet dignity of a well-preserved wreck and don’t mind a bit of a chill – it is Orkney, after all.

    Typical Wreck of Minieh Dive Profile

    5m10m15mSafety Stop0m15m max~50 min estimated bottom time

    Illustrative profile based on site depth and type. Actual dive profiles vary - always follow your dive computer and training.

    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.

    Always perform a 3-minute safety stop at 5m before surfacing.

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

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    Conditions

    Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for Wreck of Minieh

    Wreck of Minieh Ocean Conditions

    Monthly averages for Wreck of Minieh, 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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