Sunken Fleet, Stromness

Where the Fleet Was Laid to Rest

Off the southwestern coast of Orkney’s Mainland, near the historic port of Stromness, lies the Sunken Fleet – a group of vessels scuttled in the waters of Hoy Sound. These wrecks are part of the wider story of Scapa Flow, the great natural harbour used as a Royal Navy base during both World Wars. After the First World War, the German High Seas Fleet was interned here, and in 1919 its commander ordered the fleet scuttled to prevent capture. Though many ships were later raised, some remained on the seabed, and additional vessels were later sunk here as targets or for disposal, forming what is now known locally as the Sunken Fleet. The site is not a single wreck but a scattered collection of hulls and debris, some visible as low-tide silhouettes, others fully submerged and accessible only to divers. The wrecks sit in relatively shallow water, their shapes softened by decades of marine growth and corrosion, yet still clearly recognisable as ships. The area is marked by strong tides and clear, cold water, creating ideal conditions for diving and underwater exploration.

A Diver’s Window into History

The Sunken Fleet is a magnet for experienced divers, drawn by the combination of accessible wrecks and rich wartime heritage. Diving here feels like entering a submerged museum: twisted metal, gun emplacements, and engine rooms tell stories of naval power, conflict, and the end of an era. Many of the wrecks are former Royal Navy vessels, including destroyers and support ships, sunk after the Second World War as part of target practice or as a means of disposal. The site is not for beginners; strong currents and cold water demand good training and preparation, but for those equipped, it offers an unforgettable encounter with maritime history. Local dive operators in Stromness often include the Sunken Fleet in guided wreck dives, providing context and safety support. The wrecks are encrusted with anemones, sponges, and other marine life, turning warships into artificial reefs. Over time, nature has claimed these steel giants, softening their edges and integrating them into the seabed, yet their scale and structure remain awe-inspiring.

Life Above the Waves

From the shore near Stromness, the Sunken Fleet is mostly hidden, but at low tide parts of the wrecks may break the surface as dark, rust-streaked shapes. The surrounding coastline is rugged and windswept, with rocky outcrops and grassy slopes leading down to the water. The area is popular for coastal walks, offering views across Hoy Sound to the island of Hoy and its dramatic cliffs. The tides here are powerful, a reminder of the same currents that once made Stromness a vital haven for mariners. The site is not a formal tourist attraction with facilities or signage, but rather a natural and historical feature best appreciated from the water or by those with diving experience. The nearby town of Stromness, with its maritime museums and galleries, provides excellent context for understanding the naval history that led to these ships being laid to rest in these waters.

Respect and Preservation

The Sunken Fleet is both a war grave and a protected historical site. Many of the vessels were lost with crew, and even those scuttled later are part of Orkney’s naval legacy. Divers and visitors are expected to treat the site with respect, avoiding intrusive exploration or removal of artefacts. The wrecks are fragile, slowly succumbing to corrosion and the sea’s relentless action, and their preservation depends on responsible access. Environmental conditions also play a role: the cold, clear water slows decay but strong tides and storms can shift debris and alter the site over time. The area is part of a wider network of protected marine and historical sites in Orkney, reflecting the islands’ importance in naval history and their ongoing role in maritime archaeology and conservation.