Wreck of Unnamed Shipwreck - Canmore 101811 - Scapa Flow, Orkney

The U-27, a German U-boat sunk early in World War I, isn't always the first wreck divers think of in Scapa Flow, but we think it deserves a closer look. It’s a compelling contrast to the towering dreadnoughts and cruisers that often steal the show. Lying mostly intact on its side, the U-27 gives you a real sense of its claustrophobic scale. You can still make out the torpedo tubes at the bow and the conning tower, which lies at an angle, making for some interesting swim-throughs if you're appropriately trained and equipped. We love exploring the deck guns, which are still in position, and imagining the scene over a century ago. The currents here can pick up, so we always suggest diving on a slack tide for the best experience. The wreck is heavily colonised; you'll find lumpsuckers tucked into crevices and spotted rays often glide past the hull. Keep an eye out for the iridescent bristles of sea mice in the silty areas around the wreck – they're surprisingly beautiful. It’s a dive that offers both a poignant historical narrative and a thriving, if chilly, marine ecosystem.

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
57.786667, -2.600779
Type
wreck

Marine Protected Area: Cullen to Stake Ness Coast

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 101811

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 101811

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