Wreck of SMS Grosser Kurfürst - Scapa Flow, Orkney

The SMS Kronprinz is our pick for a full-on battleship experience in Scapa Flow. Dropping onto her massive hull, you immediately get a sense of the sheer scale. We’ve found the best plan is to work your way along the port side, spotting the huge gun turrets – the 12-inchers are still pretty impressive even after a century on the seabed. There’s enough intact structure here for some proper exploration, ducking into the superstructure and peeking into what would have been the officers' quarters. The light filters down through the Orkney green water, picking out the jewel anemones that sparkle like scattered gems on the steel plates. Look closely, and you might spot a wolf-fish peering out from a dark corner, or a large anglerfish camouflaged against the rust. It’s a site that demands multiple dives to really appreciate, and we’d suggest timing your visit for slack water; the currents can pick up here, making finning around the vast decks a bit of a workout. For divers who love big, historical wrecks and aren't afraid of a bit of chill, Kronprinz delivers.

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
58.896940, -3.184511
Type
wreck

Marine Protected Area: Hoy

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 Grosser Kurfürst

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 Grosser Kurfürst

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