World | UK | Scotland | Diving Scapa:

Scapa Flow overview

Wrecks:

• Brummer
• Coln
• Dresden
• F2 (& YC21 Barge)
• James Barrie
• Karlsruhe
• Konig
• Kronprinz Wilhelm
• Markgraf
• Tabarka

Resources & Links:

Other Scapa diving information online:

• Scapa article by Rosemary Lunn on scotsac.com

Other Information Online:

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Scuba Diving in Scapa Flow, Scotland, UK, Europe

Dive Site: Coln

Location: 58°53.83N; 3°08.45W

Description: 5600 ton light cruiser

Length: 155 metres (510 feet)

Depth: 19 - 36 metres (62 - 118 feet)

Visibility: 20 metres (65 feet)

Rating: *****

This remains my favourite dive, and its going to take a lot to beat! The most amazing wreck I've ever dived, the viz was fantastic, but the best bit was the shear volume of straightforward penetration that is possible. The masts remain intact, and the wreck lies just off of the horizontal. There is an immense network of rope, beams and other debris that you can stare up at for ages. There is torpedo storage, guns that must be about 15 foot long, immense cogged wheels that I don't know the use for (possibly gun platforms) and a plaque commemorating a diver who died there in 1999. For some bizarre, reason there is a for sale sign too! There are smaller guns too, but these must still be 8 foot long! You can also make out distinct features such as steps and doorways and the main mast is still intact. The penetration is brilliant due to the ease of access, with the opportunity to get out of the wreckage wherever you are inside. The space deteriorates eventually, but with warning and it is easy to retrace your steps without kicking up any silt. It is possible to work your way back along a higher level. If you end up by the hull rather than the deck by mistake, keep an eye out for the hole used to sink the boat.

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