Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom
    Cairnbulg to St Combs Coast

    Wreck of North Queen

    Good diving all year

    Protected Area

    Cairnbulg to St Combs Coast

    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 North Queen 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

    The North Queen in Scapa Flow isn't one of the big German warships, and that's precisely why we love her. She's a fantastic example of a more accessible Scapa wreck, sitting in shallower depths, making for longer bottom times and a truly immersive experience. Dropping down onto her bow, you’re greeted by a thick coating of plumose anemones, their white tentacles swaying gently in the subtle current, like a field of miniature flowers. We always find ourselves drawn to the stern, where the prop shaft leads to a still-intact propeller, a great photo opportunity, especially with the ambient light filtering through the Orkney green water. Keep an eye out for inquisitive wrasse darting between the deck fittings and the occasional large pollack shadowing your every move. It’s a dive that offers a real sense of exploration without the demands of the deeper, darker sites. She’s perfect for divers looking for a proper Scapa wreck dive who might not be comfortable with the big boys just yet, or for those who simply appreciate the beauty of a smaller, colonised wreck.

    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.

    Today06:3317:1710h 44m daylightGolden hour 16:23

    Reviews for Wreck of North Queen

    Sign in to write a review

    Conditions

    Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for Wreck of North Queen

    Wreck of North Queen Ocean Conditions

    Monthly averages for Wreck of North Queen, 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

    Plan & book

    Ways to dive Scapa Flow, Orkney, from day trips to liveaboards.

    Day trips & courses

    via GetYourGuide

    Guided dives, courses and snorkel trips with instant booking.

    Find dive trips in Scapa Flow, Orkney

    Places to stay

    via Booking.com

    Hotels and dive resorts near Scapa Flow, Orkney.

    Search stays in Scapa Flow, Orkney

    Dive insurance

    Most travel insurance excludes or limits scuba. Check what you need before you go.

    Dive insurance explained

    Partner 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 North Queen

    Prices from Booking.com. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

    Back to Scapa Flow, Orkney