Wreck of Unnamed Shipwreck - Canmore 101816 - Scapa Flow, Orkney

Scapa Flow always delivers, and the *Aase* (we say “possibly” because, let’s be honest, half the wrecks here are still a best guess) is a firm favourite for a reason. Dropping down, you hit the bow first, often with a slight current nudging you along the length of the ship. We love the way the light filters through the kelp forest that has draped itself over the upper decks – it’s a living cloak of green and gold. Inside, the holds are open, revealing the skeletal remains of what was once a cargo ship. Look for the massive shoals of dab and butterfish that dart through the gloom, seeking refuge among the twisted metal. The decks are covered in colonies of Beadlet anemones, little red jewels that pulse with the surge. Our pick for an insider tip? Go at slack tide, especially if there's been some sun, and try to catch the light rays piercing through the water column into the holds. It transforms the whole experience from a dark exploration to something genuinely magical. This site is for divers who appreciate history, the quiet grandeur of a shipwreck, and don't mind a bit of a chill; the marine life here is subtle, but it’s absolutely captivating.

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
57.723630, -2.042780
Type
wreck

Marine Protected Area: Rosehearty to Fraserburgh 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 101816

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 101816

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