Wreck of Ub-116
Protected Area
Switha
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 Ub-116 offers some of Scapa Flow, Orkney's richest wreck diving. Water ranges 8-14°C, warmest July, August, September.
The UB-116 isn't the prettiest wreck in Scapa Flow, let's be honest. This German U-boat was scuttled by its own crew in 1919, unlike many of the others which met their end in battle or were intentionally sunk later. It's largely broken up now, scattered across the seabed in about 25 to 30 meters. You won't find an intact conning tower or engine room here. What you *will* find, though, is a fascinating archaeological site, best suited for those who appreciate history more than pristine metal. We love poking around the debris field, imagining the moments leading up to its sinking. You'll see pressure hull plating, perhaps a section of torpedo tube, and plenty of smaller bits and pieces. Visibility can be decent, but often you're diving in that classic Scapa Flow green, so bring a good torch to highlight the details. Dogfish often cruise the perimeter, and the wreck itself is home to a surprising number of smaller creatures, from common gobies darting between the metal plates to bright light-bulb sea squirts clinging to the wreckage. It’s a quiet, contemplative dive, a real testament to the Flow's layered past.
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.
Nearest Dive Centres to Wreck of Ub-116
Dive shops near Wreck of Ub-116
View all dive centres in Scapa Flow, OrkneyReviews for Wreck of Ub-116
Conditions
Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for Wreck of Ub-116
Wreck of Ub-116 Ocean Conditions
Monthly averages for Wreck of Ub-116, 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
Plan & book
Ways to dive Scapa Flow, Orkney, from day trips to liveaboards.
Day trips & courses
via GetYourGuideGuided dives, courses and snorkel trips with instant booking.
Find dive trips in Scapa Flow, OrkneyPlaces to stay
via Booking.comHotels and dive resorts near Scapa Flow, Orkney.
Search stays in Scapa Flow, OrkneyDive insurance
Most travel insurance excludes or limits scuba. Check what you need before you go.
Dive insurance explainedPartner 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 Ub-116
Prices from Booking.com. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
