Wreck of North Queen - Scapa Flow, Orkney

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.

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
57.668552, -1.911144
Type
wreck

Marine Protected Area: Cairnbulg to St Combs Coast

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 North Queen

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 North Queen

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