Wreck of Mormond - Scapa Flow, Orkney

The *Mormond*, a German steamer scuttled in 1919, isn't as famous as some of Scapa Flow's bigger names, but we love it for its quiet, unassuming charm. Lying on its port side in about 16 metres, it’s an ideal introduction to Flow wreck diving, especially if you’re still getting comfortable with overhead environments. The stern is our favourite part, with a distinctive quadrant davit that feels like a forgotten piece of industrial art. The wreck itself is quite broken up in places, but that just means more nooks and crannies for exploration. Light filters through cracks in the deck plates, illuminating crabs scuttling over rusted metal and plump anemones clinging to every surface. You'll find plenty of coalfish darting in and out, and we’ve often spotted lobsters tucked into the darker recesses. It’s a gentle dive, usually with minimal current, allowing you to really take your time and soak in the history. We’d suggest pairing it with another shallow dive for a relaxed day out.

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
58.630836, -3.035111
Type
wreck

Marine Protected Area: John o' Groats

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 Mormond

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 Mormond

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