Wreck of Wilston - Scapa Flow, Orkney

The Grape Shot, a schooner lost to Lake Michigan’s fickle temper in 1867, isn’t just another pile of old timbers. This wreck, resting near Plum Island, Wisconsin, is a truly compelling dive, particularly for those who appreciate maritime history with a touch of melancholy. We love how the relatively shallow depth, somewhere in the 30-40 foot range, means you get decent bottom time to really absorb the site without feeling rushed. What you'll find is a surprisingly intact hull, considering its age and the lake’s relentless churn. The bow and stern sections are particularly well-preserved, offering glimpses into its former glory. We always make sure to peer into the cargo hold, often finding schools of iridescent Alewife darting through the gloom. On a good visibility day – and you’ll want to pick your day here, because it can be hit or miss – the light filtering through the cold freshwater gives the whole scene a ghostly, ethereal quality. Keep an eye out for Slimy Sculpin tucked into crevices; they’re masters of camouflage, but they’re there. This site is perfect for drysuit-clad wreck enthusiasts who appreciate exploration over coral gazing. It suits divers who find beauty in decay and the silent stories told by a ship’s bones.

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
58.644066, -2.518323
Type
wreck

Marine Protected Area: Copinsay

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 Wilston

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 Wilston

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