Orkney

Orkney is an archipelago off the north coast of Scotland in the United Kingdom. It’s a historic travel and wildlife destination with limited diving directly from the main towns. The surrounding seas offer cold-water visibility and varied marine life, but the area is not a major scuba hub. Nearby dive activity is primarily centered around small local operations that run occasional boat trips and training, with access from settlements like Kirkwall and Stromness. For divers, the best approach is to use a local center for guided Dave from shore or short boat trips to nearby spots, with exposure to temperate corals, seals, and wreck exploration opportunities when weather and currents permit. Freshwater diving is not typical in the Orkney mainland and there are no notable freshwater sites on the immediate vicinity.