WYRE LAW - Scapa Flow, Orkney

The Wyre Law is a proper Scapa Flow anomaly, a shallow wreck often overlooked, and honestly, we love it for that. She's a steel steam trawler, went down in 1952, and now sits bolt upright in just two metres of water. That depth is key; it means incredibly long bottom times, even for newer divers, and a wreck that’s just bathed in ambient light, cutting through the usual Scapa gloom. Our favourite thing about the Wyre Law is the way you can just drift over her deck, spotting the details that would be lost in deeper, darker water. The bow, the stern, the collapsed superstructure – it’s all there, softened by decades of growth. The engine room is open to the sky, and you can poke your head in, watching the light play on the machinery. You'll see plumose anemones waving like tiny white flags, crabs scuttling across the plates, and often, small shoals of pollack or saithe darting through the rusted framework. It’s not a deep, dramatic penetration dive, but it’s a brilliant, relaxed exploration of a piece of history, perfectly suited for those who appreciate the smaller details and want to spend ages just soaking it all in.

Location
Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
58.254044, -6.172802
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
2m

Marine Protected Area: Gress Saltings

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 WYRE LAW

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 WYRE LAW

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the maximum depth of the Wyre Law shipwreck dive site?
The Wyre Law shipwreck dive site has a maximum depth of 2 meters. This shallow depth makes it highly accessible for many divers to explore the remains of this historic vessel, which was sunk on October 23, 1952.
What kind of marine life and wreck features can divers expect to see when diving the Wyre Law?
Divers exploring the Wyre Law can expect to see the features of a steel steam trawler, measuring 41.2m x 7.2m. The wreck, built in 1915 and classified as showing any portion of its hull or superstructure, offers a glimpse into its past as a vessel with a 3-cylinder triple expansion engine. While specific marine life is not detailed, wrecks often become artificial reefs attracting various species.
How difficult is the Wyre Law shipwreck dive, and is it suitable for advanced open water divers?
The Wyre Law shipwreck dive is classified as intermediate difficulty. This rating suggests it is suitable for divers with some experience beyond entry-level, making it a good option for advanced open water divers looking for a rewarding wreck exploration in Scapa Flow.
What is the best time of year to dive the Wyre Law shipwreck for optimal conditions?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year to dive the Wyre Law for optimal conditions. For general guidance on seasonal diving in the United Kingdom, you might consult our when to dive section for broader insights.
What scuba diving certifications are required to explore the Wyre Law wreck?
While specific certification requirements are not explicitly stated, the Wyre Law is an intermediate difficulty wreck dive. Divers should typically hold at least an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent, along with appropriate wreck diving specialty training, to safely and confidently explore such sites.
What are the typical current conditions and visibility at the Wyre Law dive site off the Butt of Lewis?
The provided data does not include information on typical current conditions or visibility for the Wyre Law dive site. Furthermore, it's important to note that the site is located in Scapa Flow, Orkney, United Kingdom, not off the Butt of Lewis.