Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom
    Invernaver

    Wreck of Nitedal

    Good diving all year

    Protected Area

    Invernaver

    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 Nitedal 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

    Scapa Flow is littered with history, but the Nitedal, a German merchant ship scuttled in 1919, always stands out for us. It sits upright and reasonably intact, with plenty of big penetration opportunities if you’re properly trained and equipped. We love dropping down onto the huge cargo holds, often finding them packed with plumose anemones, their feathery tentacles swaying in the gentle surge. Keep an eye out for inquisitive wrasse darting in and out of the plating; they’re often bolder here than on other wrecks. The stern is our favourite spot, where the propeller still offers a stark silhouette against the green light. Visibility can swing dramatically, so picking your day is key. Aim for slack water around high tide for the best conditions; it makes navigating the deeper sections around 20-30 metres much more enjoyable. It’s a dive that rewards careful exploration, perfect for wreck enthusiasts who appreciate a bit of history with their marine life.

    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.

    Today06:4517:2510h 41m daylightGolden hour 16:30

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    Conditions

    Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for Wreck of Nitedal

    Wreck of Nitedal Ocean Conditions

    Monthly averages for Wreck of Nitedal, 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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