Wreck of Portugal - Scapa Flow, Orkney

The HMS Starfish is more than just a lump of metal on the seabed, it’s a sombre reminder of wartime history, and we think that's why it holds such a draw. This S-class submarine, sunk in 1940, rests upright, largely intact, which is remarkable for a wreck in these waters. Descending through the North Sea’s often green embrace, the sheer silhouette of the submarine emerges, a dark mass against the sometimes murky backdrop. We love exploring the conning tower, imagining the cramped conditions within. Look closely and you will spot common whelks navigating the plating, while scaldfish often dart from the shadows of a torpedo tube. The wreck itself acts as a massive artificial reef, attracting poor cod and whiting, and we’ve even seen common seals make a curious pass or two. Diving the Starfish often means contending with a bit of current, so it’s definitely one for more experienced divers. Pick a day with good visibility, if you can, to really appreciate the scale of this historical site. It's an imposing dive, certainly, but deeply rewarding.

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
58.197720, -6.387354
Type
wreck

Marine Protected Area: Tong Saltings

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 Portugal

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 Portugal

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