Wreck of SMS Von der Tann - Scapa Flow, Orkney

Alright, let's talk about the *Mary Rose*, or what's left of her. Don't go expecting a fully intact hull to poke your head into; this isn't a deep Caribbean warm water dive. This is the English Channel, and what we're looking at here is a historically significant site, though much of the original ship has been salvaged and is now in the museum in Portsmouth. For divers, it’s more of an archaeological exploration than a traditional wreck penetration. You'll find scattered timbers, ballast, and cannon, now thoroughly encrusted with life. We love watching the poor cod dart between the nooks and crannies of what was once a mighty warship. Keep an eye out for the vibrant crumb-of-bread sponges, they really splash colour across the ancient wood. We’d suggest focusing on the smaller details here, imagine the history beneath your fins. Visibility can be a bit of a lottery, so picking a calm day with minimal swell is key. It’s a dive for those who appreciate history and the slow reclamation of man-made objects by the sea.

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
58.877144, -3.187165
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 Von der Tann

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 Von der Tann

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