Wreck of shipwreck possibly the Mercator - Scapa Flow, Orkney

Diving Scapa Flow, you’re always chasing history. The U-18 (Probably) is one of our favourites for that exact reason – it’s a tangible piece of two World Wars, even if its identity is still debated. Dropping onto the wreck, usually around 25-30 metres, you're greeted by a remarkably intact hull, considering its age. The conning tower is still distinct, making for a great navigation point and a superb photo opportunity. This isn't a brightly lit, colourful coral dive. Instead, it’s a dive into a muted, often green world, where the steel structure is draped in dead man’s fingers and anemones. We love the resident wolf-fish here; they're usually tucked into crevices, giving you that perfect, slightly menacing stare. Look out for huge Atlantic cod cruising by, too. The dive itself is usually quite relaxed, making it a good entry point for those new to Scapa’s deeper wrecks, but visibility can be fickle. Pick a calm day, ideally after a few days of settled weather, for the best chance of a clear view of this fascinating wreck.

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
57.404785, -1.576718
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 Mercator

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 Mercator

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