Wreck of shipwreck possibly the Mudlark - Scapa Flow, Orkney

The *Mara* wreck in Scapa Flow isn't about tropical colours, it’s about atmosphere and history, a proper plunge into the cold, dark past. We love how the visibility here, often 10-15 metres, plays tricks on your eyes as you descend onto the scattered remains of this German naval trawler. You’re not just diving a wreck; you’re entering a steel tomb overgrown with life. Our favourite part is nosing around the engine room, feeling the sheer scale of the machinery, now home to fat Atlantic cod and inquisitive poor cod darting between the girders. Look closely, and you’ll spot tiny transparent gobies tucked into every crevice, while bull rout often eye you suspiciously from beneath a deck plate. The kelp, especially the channelled wrack and oarweed, sways eerily, creating a living curtain over the steel, making each swim-through feel like a discovery. This site is a great choice for divers who appreciate the sombre beauty of historical wrecks and the hardy marine life that thrives in these northern waters. Come prepared for the chill, but expect a genuinely immersive experience.

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
57.491444, -1.543386
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 Mudlark

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 Mudlark

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