Wreck of Unnamed Shipwreck - Canmore 102896 - Scapa Flow, Orkney

Sometimes, an unnamed wreck is just as compelling as the famous ones. The Canmore 102896 in Scapa Flow might lack a dramatic backstory, but we love how it’s become a living reef. Dropping onto the wreck, you're immediately struck by the sheer scale of the metal structures, softened now by decades of marine growth. This isn’t a pristine, intact ship; it’s a skeleton, twisted and broken, making for some fascinating swim-throughs if you're comfortable with overhead environments. What really sets it apart for us is the resident marine life. You’ll spot the usual suspects – grumpy-looking wolf fish peering from nooks, plump conger eels coiled in shadowed compartments, and the vibrant colours of jewel anemones coating almost every surface. It’s a site that rewards slow exploration, letting your eyes adjust to the subtle movements and the way light filters through the structure. We’d suggest going at slack water, as Scapa Flow currents can be surprisingly assertive, making the entry and exit much more enjoyable. It’s a deep, dark dive, so save this one for when you're feeling proficient in cold water.

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
60.213085, -1.196882
Type
wreck

Marine Protected Area: Noss

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 102896

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 102896

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