wreck

Log This Dive

Wreck of Os

There are plenty of wrecks scattered across Scapa Flow, but the *Os* holds a special place for us. It’s one of the shallower ones, often a good second dive, sitting upright in about 15 metres. That makes it accessible for less experienced wreck divers without sacrificing any of that classic Scapa Flow atmosphere. The ship itself is a smaller, cargo vessel, not one of the mighty German fleet, but don't let that fool you. What we really love about the *Os* is how remarkably intact it is. You can still make out the superstructure, the holds, even some of the deck gear. Penetration is possible for those with the right training, and it’s a genuinely evocative experience to swim through those dark internal spaces. The light, even on a cloudy day, filters down beautifully, illuminating the thick carpets of plumose anemones that cling to every surface. Look for the massive conger eels peering out from gaps in the plating, and the schools of saithe that swirl around the mast. Our favourite time to dive it is on a slack tide, when the water settles, and the silence down there is really something. Just remember, this is cold water diving – a drysuit is a must.