the submerged safari
This is a joint operation between Historic Orkney and Kraken Diving. We facilitate a multi-dimensional view of Scapa flow and Orkney's water by bridging the gap between the shore and the sea. this experience is designed to move from the coastal defences to the active marine life and blockships beneath the surface of the North sea.
This tour is built for:
- Explorers: those who want to see Orkney from a different perspective.
- The physically active: guests ready for a technical gear change.
- High context travelers: people who want to see the flow from the seabed to the shore.
Ages 10+: due to the technical nature of the equipment and naval sites.
Included: full kit hire and professional instruction from Orkney’s only dedicated dive school.
Max group size: 4 people.
Physical intensity: moderate.
Availability: seasonal by arrangement.
Service includes
- Site facilitation: access to the churchill barriers and naval anchorage points.
- Snorkel safari: guided exploration of Orkney's submerged sites.
- Professional gear: high standard, streamlined equipment for cold water environments.
- Private transport: seamless transition between land and sea sites.
Typical itinerary
the day is dictated by the environment. We utilize multiple snorkel sites across the mainland to ensure we find the best visibility and conditions for the specific tides of the day.
09:00am
Anywhere on Orkney mainland.
.avif)
Coastal positioning
We begin by establishing the land-side logistics and technical overview of the site layout. we orient ourselves before the water entry.
The submerged safari (Day or Night)
No previous experience is required. led by Kraken Diving’s PADI professionals, you enter the water at the most favorable site for the day, whether the ww1 and ww2 blockships or the seagrass meadows of the flow. you will be in direct contact with the naval architecture, which are now home to sea urchins, starfish, and kelp forests.
Recovery and technical debrief
Time to de-rig and warm up. we pause for a technical debrief on the specific wreckage or biology observed during the session.
The barrier view & Celina rupp
We move to the barrier view cafe for coffee and a break. located in the parish of Holm, this spot overlooks the barriers and the italian chapel. you can also visit celina rupp’s gallery and workshop on-site, which features jewellery and artwork directly inspired by the orkney coastline.
2pm (ish)
Return anywhere on the Orkney mainland. timings may shift slightly based on water conditions.
Technical upgrades & customisation
This journey is designed to adapt to your specific level of expertise. for those who want to move beyond the surface, we can customise the day to you.
- PADI try a dive: No experience required. Move from snorkeling to breathing underwater. this carries a heavy medical requirement: Technical clearance is mandatory.
- Boat tour snorkeling: For advanced snorkelers. We can head further out into the flow to access sites unreachable from the shore.
What this means for you
This is a local collaboration designed to provide access to the restricted maritime history of Orkney. By combining specialized land logistics with Orkney's only dedicated dive school, we provide a perspective on scapa flow that most visitors never see. We prioritize the integrity of the experience over a rigid schedule, ensuring that when we enter the water, the conditions allow for a clear study of the environment.
Items not included
- Lunch
- Shipping for any artifacts (look but don't touch)
- Upgrade fees for diving or boat hire
- Bad moods
Hi I'm Calum.
The submerged safari is about removing the barriers between you and the environment. Kraken Diving provides the technical access and PADI standard safety, while i ensure the day runs well.
Got questions about this tour?
Skip the chatbots and speak in real time. This ten minute briefing is a no-pressure technical check to answer questions and check over your ideas. We’ll focus on the logistics, timings, tides, and accessibility.
To ensure your journey is built without compromise. Bring your "weird and wonderful" ideas, I enjoy a challenge.
Book this tour
To book the 'The submerged safari' please submit an enquiry. I will be in touch within 24 hours to discuss the next steps.
A 50% deposit (£200) is required to secure the date once the itinerary is confirmed, with the remaining balance (£200) due on the day.
Expect to hear back within 24 hours
Next Steps
Tailoring your itinerary
I will be in touch a day or two after your enquiry to discuss the details.
Additions & Special Requests
If you want to customise the tour or include more entry tickets, let me know. I will provide a separate estimate for any additions.
Booking protection & insurance
Deposits are non-refundable to reflect our small scale, personal service. To protect your booking, we recommend independent travel insurance including CFAR (Cancel for any reason) coverage.
(I’ll be here. The date might not be.)
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