Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom
    Pentland Firth Islands

    Wreck of U-18 (Probably)

    Good diving all year

    Protected Area

    Pentland Firth Islands

    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 U-18 (Probably) offers some of Scapa Flow, Orkney's richest wreck diving. Water ranges 8-14°C, warmest July, August, September.

    Best timeYear-round
    WetsuitA drysuit
    Marine lifeBlue Whales, Dolphins, Dwarf Minke Whales, Humpback Whales and Ocean Sunfish (Mola Mola) · 140+ species recorded
    Water8-14°C · warmest July, August, September
    CharacterWreck dive
    StandoutRich in charismatic marine life

    Diving Scapa Flow, you’re always chasing history. The U-18 (Probably) is one of our favourites for that exact reason – it’s a tangible piece of two World Wars, even if its identity is still debated. Dropping onto the wreck, usually around 25-30 metres, you're greeted by a remarkably intact hull, considering its age. The conning tower is still distinct, making for a great navigation point and a superb photo opportunity. This isn't a brightly lit, colourful coral dive. Instead, it’s a dive into a muted, often green world, where the steel structure is draped in dead man’s fingers and anemones. We love the resident wolf-fish here; they're usually tucked into crevices, giving you that perfect, slightly menacing stare. Look out for huge Atlantic cod cruising by, too. The dive itself is usually quite relaxed, making it a good entry point for those new to Scapa’s deeper wrecks, but visibility can be fickle. Pick a calm day, ideally after a few days of settled weather, for the best chance of a clear view of this fascinating wreck.

    Safety Notes

    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.

    Today06:3817:1910h 40m daylightGolden hour 16:23

    Nearest Dive Centres to Wreck of U-18 (Probably)

    Dive shops near Wreck of U-18 (Probably)

    View all dive centres in Scapa Flow, Orkney

    Reviews for Wreck of U-18 (Probably)

    Sign in to write a review

    Conditions

    Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for Wreck of U-18 (Probably)

    Wreck of U-18 (Probably) Ocean Conditions

    Monthly averages for Wreck of U-18 (Probably), sourced from Open-Meteo marine data - nearest station: Open-Meteo marine grid (58.64, -3.16) (8km away)

    ExcellentGreatGoodFairPoor★Best monthsThis month

    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

    Plan & book

    Ways to dive Scapa Flow, Orkney, from day trips to liveaboards.

    Day trips & courses

    via GetYourGuide

    Guided dives, courses and snorkel trips with instant booking.

    Find dive trips in Scapa Flow, Orkney

    Places to stay

    via Booking.com

    Hotels and dive resorts near Scapa Flow, Orkney.

    Search stays in Scapa Flow, Orkney

    Dive insurance

    Most travel insurance excludes or limits scuba. Check what you need before you go.

    Dive insurance explained

    Partner links: we may earn a commission if you book, at no extra cost to you. How we make money

    Where to Stay near Wreck of U-18 (Probably)

    Prices from Booking.com. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

    Back to Scapa Flow, Orkney