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Wreck of SMS Kronprinz

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.