Wreck of Sonderborg - Scapa Flow, Orkney

The **Sonderborg** isn’t the biggest wreck in Scapa Flow, but we think it’s one of the most atmospheric. Dropping onto her bow, the first thing you notice is the sheer scale of the anchors, still in place, covered in white plumose anemones that pulse gently in the current. She lies on her starboard side, relatively intact, and we love navigating the superstructure. Keep an eye out for the big conger eels that have made their homes in the deeper recesses, often peering out from a porthole. This is a fantastic dive for those who appreciate the history of these ships; you can still make out many of her original features, now completely covered in invertebrate life. The engine room is a highlight, and with a good torch, you’ll see walls adorned with jewel anemones. It’s also a manageable depth for those wanting a longer bottom time without getting too cold. We’d suggest a sidemount configuration here to squeeze into a few of the tighter spots further aft.

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
57.804523, -6.796965
Type
wreck

Marine Protected Area: Luskentyre Banks and Saltings

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 Sonderborg

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 Sonderborg

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