Wreck of Unnamed Shipwreck - Canmore 102978 - Scapa Flow, Orkney

The Minieh is one of those Scapa Flow wrecks that really gets under your skin. We love it because it’s not just a pile of plates; it’s a proper ship with character, lying on its starboard side, largely intact. You drop down onto the hull and immediately feel the history, the silence broken only by your own bubbles. Inside, the holds are open, inviting you to explore – just be mindful of the silt, it kicks up quick. What makes Minieh special is the way the marine life has completely reclaimed it. Dulse carpets the decks, and you’ll find poor cod darting through the superstructure. Look closely and you might spot thornback skates tucked away, or even a dogfish snoozing in a shadowy corner. We’d suggest focusing on the bow and stern sections; they tend to be the most interesting architecturally, with some cool penetration options if you’re properly trained and equipped. It’s a dive that suits those who appreciate the quiet dignity of a well-preserved wreck and don’t mind a bit of a chill – it is Orkney, after all.

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
60.153420, -1.116403
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 102978

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 102978

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