Wreck of Thames
Protected Area
Copinsay
Why dive here
With 140+ marine species recorded in the area - including blue whales, dolphins, dwarf minke whales, humpback whales and ocean sunfish (mola mola) - Wreck of Thames offers some of Scapa Flow, Orkney's richest wreck diving. Water ranges 8-14°C, warmest July, August, September.
The Wreck of Thames, resting in Scapa Flow, offers a dive that feels like stepping back in time. We love exploring the remains of this German naval vessel, imagining the stories it holds. The visibility here often surprises people, especially during calmer conditions; it's rarely Caribbean but often good enough to appreciate the scale of the wreck from a few metres away. This isn't a colourful reef dive, but the Thames has a stark, industrial beauty all its own. Rusting metalwork forms intricate patterns, and you’ll find plenty of marine life making a home in the shadows. Look for the large conger eels peeking out from darkened compartments – they’re a common sight and always impressive. Star ascidians encrust surfaces, adding splashes of unexpected colour to the otherwise muted palette. We always suggest taking your time here, letting your eyes adjust to the ambient light, and exploring the holds. It’s a dive that rewards slow, methodical exploration. The Thames is perfect for those who appreciate history and the way the sea reclaims what’s hers.
Typical Wreck of Thames Dive Profile
Illustrative profile based on site depth and type. Actual dive profiles vary - always follow your dive computer and training.
Safety Notes
Depth of 20m - Advanced Open Water certification recommended.
Wreck site - avoid penetration without wreck diving certification. Watch for sharp metal and entanglement hazards.
Cold water this month (avg 13°C). Drysuit or thick wetsuit (7mm+) recommended.
Always perform a 3-minute safety stop at 5m before surfacing.
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Conditions
Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for Wreck of Thames
Wreck of Thames Ocean Conditions
Monthly averages for Wreck of Thames, sourced from Open-Meteo marine data - nearest station: Open-Meteo marine grid (58.64, -3.16) (8km away)
October Averages
Sea Temperature
13°C
55°F · Range: 11.4–13.8°C
Air Temperature
10°C
50°F
Wind Speed
9.26 m/s
18.0 knots
Atmospheric Pressure
1005.3 hPa
Based on 4 years of monitoring data · Data sources: Open-Meteo marine data
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