Wreck of Unnamed Shipwreck - Canmore 102247 - Scapa Flow, Orkney

The Rheinfield isn't just another lump of metal on the seabed. It’s an immersion into history, a stark reminder of Scapa Flow's past. Dropping onto the deck, the sheer scale hits you. This huge cargo ship, one of the smaller German High Seas Fleet scuttlings, has been underwater for over a century, and the growth on her is incredible. We love the penetration opportunities here, especially exploring the holds. They’re cavernous and open, often filled with schools of saithe that swirl around your torch beam. Look closely at the hull plates and you’ll find them covered in light-bulb sea squirts and North Sea tube anemones, swaying gently in the current. Common sea stars cling everywhere. On a sunny day, the light filtering through the water and into the holds creates this eerie, beautiful glow. It’s not a site for absolute beginners, you need good buoyancy, but for wreck lovers, it’s our favourite for sheer atmosphere and accessibility within Scapa Flow. Dive it at slack water for the best experience.

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
58.833145, -3.190980
Type
wreck

Marine Protected Area: Switha

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 102247

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 102247

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