Wreck of Unnamed Shipwreck - Canmore 101774 - Scapa Flow, Orkney

Scapa Flow is littered with history, but some of the most intriguing dives are those where the story isn't fully told. Take the Unnamed Shipwreck, Canmore 101774. We call it 'The Unknown Wreck', and honestly, that mystery is part of its charm. Dropping onto it, you're immediately struck by the sheer scale of the twisted metal, lying surprisingly intact in parts, considering the decades underwater. What we love here is the sheer sense of exploration. It’s not just a pile of plates; there are distinct sections. We’ve found the stern particularly captivating, with its dramatic upright structure, forming canyons for you to navigate. Keep an eye out for the resident wrasse, bold and curious, often darting between the anemone-covered plating. The visibility can be variable, as with much of Scapa, so pick your day carefully. We always aim for a slack tide an hour after high water for the calmest conditions and best light penetration, which really helps bring out the greens and browns of the kelp and sponges that now coat everything. It’s a dive that rewards slow, deliberate exploration, perfect for those who appreciate the quiet conversation a wreck has with the sea.

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
57.971916, -3.070808
Type
wreck

Marine Protected Area: Spey Bay

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 Unnamed Shipwreck - Canmore 101774

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 Unnamed Shipwreck - Canmore 101774

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