Wreck of Rheinfield
Protected Area
Copinsay
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 Rheinfield offers some of Scapa Flow, Orkney's richest wreck diving. Water ranges 8-14°C, warmest July, August, September.
The Rheinfield isn't just another lump of metal on the seabed. It’s an immersion into history, a stark reminder of Scapa Flow's past. Dropping onto the deck, the sheer scale hits you. This huge cargo ship, one of the smaller German High Seas Fleet scuttlings, has been underwater for over a century, and the growth on her is incredible. We love the penetration opportunities here, especially exploring the holds. They’re cavernous and open, often filled with schools of saithe that swirl around your torch beam. Look closely at the hull plates and you’ll find them covered in light-bulb sea squirts and North Sea tube anemones, swaying gently in the current. Common sea stars cling everywhere. On a sunny day, the light filtering through the water and into the holds creates this eerie, beautiful glow. It’s not a site for absolute beginners, you need good buoyancy, but for wreck lovers, it’s our favourite for sheer atmosphere and accessibility within Scapa Flow. Dive it at slack water for the best experience.
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.
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Conditions
Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for Wreck of Rheinfield
Wreck of Rheinfield Ocean Conditions
Monthly averages for Wreck of Rheinfield, 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
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