Wreck of Nitedal
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.
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.
Reviews for Wreck of Nitedal
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)
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
Plan & book
Ways to dive Scapa Flow, Orkney, from day trips to liveaboards.
Day trips & courses
via GetYourGuideGuided dives, courses and snorkel trips with instant booking.
Find dive trips in Scapa Flow, OrkneyPlaces to stay
via Booking.comHotels and dive resorts near Scapa Flow, Orkney.
Search stays in Scapa Flow, OrkneyDive insurance
Most travel insurance excludes or limits scuba. Check what you need before you go.
Dive insurance explainedPartner links: we may earn a commission if you book, at no extra cost to you. How we make money
Where to Stay near Wreck of Nitedal
Prices from Booking.com. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
