Wreck of SMS Bremse - Scapa Flow, Orkney

The SMS Bremse, one of Scapa Flow’s smaller but no less captivating wrecks, gives us a real sense of the desperation of the scuttling. She lies capsized, but even in that position, her structure is surprisingly intact, a testament to early 20th-century engineering. We love dropping down to her, usually finding decent visibility in the 15-20 meter range if you hit the tide right; slack water is key here, otherwise, you'll be fighting. Our favourite part is exploring the stern, where the twin rudders are still discernible, covered in a tapestry of jewel anemones and a thick carpet of plumose anemones. You’ll often spot a curious dogfish or two darting between the plates, and the resident butterfish are always a delight. Inside, where light penetrates, the sight of saithe schooling amongst the bulkheads is genuinely impressive, a living, silvery cloud in the gloom. It's a dive that rewards slow exploration, perfect for photographers or anyone wanting to connect with a tangible piece of history without the overwhelming scale of some of her larger neighbours. Just remember your drysuit; this is Orkney, after all!

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
58.917520, -3.121324
Type
wreck

Marine Protected Area: Waulkmill

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 SMS Bremse

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 SMS Bremse

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