Wreck of SMS Nürnberg - Scapa Flow, Orkney

Diving the *Imogen* in Scapa Flow is less about a massive structure and more about a poignant, intimate exploration. We particularly love this I-class destroyer for its upright position; she settled gracefully in 1940, allowing for a remarkably coherent dive. You can trace her lines from bow to stern, feeling the weight of history as you pass through what were once crew quarters, now colonised by delicate Devonshire cup corals and the occasional curious common sea star. Visibility can be a gamble, but on a good day, the low light filtering through the Orkney waters gives the whole wreck an ethereal, almost ghostly glow. Our favourite part has to be the bridge area; it’s largely intact and offers a real sense of the ship's command. You’ll often find small shoals of fish darting in and out, and we’ve even spotted grey dolphins passing overhead on occasion. It’s a site that rewards patience and a keen eye, perfect for wreck enthusiasts who appreciate the finer details of a well-preserved vessel rather than sheer scale.

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
58.878760, -3.177330
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 Nürnberg

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 Nürnberg

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