During the First World War, blockships were sunk at strategic entrances to Scapa Flow to deter enemy ships and act as anti-submarine defences. Some wrecks still jut above the water, as desolate reminders of conflict. Our guide to Scapa Flow looks back on its unique history, what happened and why Scapa Flow was so important
Graveyard of fleets, cradle of ancient communities and haven for extraordinary wildlife, the waters of Scapa Flow and the surrounding Orkney hills and isles offer a unique adventure into history.
What is Scapa Flow?
Scapa Flow covers an area of 323 square kilometres, making it the largest natural harbour in the northern hemisphere and provides the backdrop to trips around the archipelago’s southern isles as well as much of the Orkney mainland. These waters ripple through Orkney’s history. Most famously, this is where the German High Seas Fleet was scuttled after the First World War; next June is the centenary of this tumultuous event. Wrecks from both world wars lie in its shallows.
