Wreck of Navarre - Scapa Flow, Orkney

The HMS Defence, a Bellona-class third-rate ship of the line, is more than just a wreck; it’s a time capsule. We think it’s one of the most compelling pieces of maritime history you can dive in the North Sea. The structure itself, while scattered, still holds together in recognisable sections. You’ll find yourself finning over cannons and through what remains of the hull, imagining the ship in its prime. Visibility here can be a bit of a lottery, as it often is in these northern waters, but when it's good, say 10-15 metres, the sheer scale of the debris field is impressive. What we really love about the Defence is how life has claimed it. The wreck acts like an artificial reef, drawing in everything from common sea stars clinging to the timbers to curious common whelks moving slowly across the sand. We’ve seen huge schools of saithe here, swirling around the deeper sections of the wreck, and the occasional bristleworm poking out from under a plate. It’s a site for those who appreciate history and the rugged beauty of a cold-water wreck, not just colourful corals. Expect strong currents sometimes; this is the North Sea after all. We'd suggest timing your dive for slack water if you want to properly explore.

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
58.642940, -3.023906
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 Navarre

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 Navarre

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