Wreck of shipwreck possibly the Cransdale - Scapa Flow, Orkney

The SMS S131 in Scapa Flow isn't one of the big boys, but we love it for a different reason. She’s a torpedo boat, so much smaller than the battleships, which means you can really get a feel for the whole vessel in a single dive. We often find ourselves just floating above her, watching the light play on the deck guns and torpedo tubes, which are still very much in place. The whole wreck is encrusted with jewel anemones and dead man’s fingers, and if you take your time, you’ll spot conger eels tucked into crevices, their heads poking out with that characteristic grumpy look. It’s a calm, reflective dive, perfect for photographers or anyone who wants a less imposing piece of history. The protection of the flow means conditions are usually pretty stable here, often offering decent visibility even when the weather outside is throwing a tantrum.

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
57.529050, -1.721115
Type
wreck

Marine Protected Area: Bullers of Buchan 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 shipwreck possibly the Cransdale

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 shipwreck possibly the Cransdale

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