Scapa Flow & Visitor Centre

Scapa Flow is a body of water about 120 square miles in area and with an average depth of 30 to 40 metres.

The Orkney Mainland and South Isles encircle Scapa Flow, making it a sheltered harbour with easy access to both the North Sea and Atlantic Ocean.

Scapa Flow is the world renowned maritime site which once housed the great fleet. There is much documented history on Scapa Flow and it’s links to WW1 and WW2 and with the Centenary anniversary of the Battle of Jutland, with over 100,000 sailors involved on 250 ships.

More than 6,000 Royal Navy and 2,500 German sailors lost their lives the largest sea battle of the First World War, taking place this May – it is a once in a lifetime  opportunity to visit Orkney and witness these significant celebratory events.

As well as the Naval and associated wartime history associated with Scapa Flow, there are also a small number of chartered diving and motor boat companies offering tours of the underwater environment around the Flow and other areas of Orkney. The Scapa Flow Visitor Centre on Hoy is worth a visit, Hoy is easily accessible from Houton or Stromness as a foot passenger or take your car. 

The Visitor Centre tells the story of the naval anchorage in World Wars 1 and 2 and is free of charge. Visitors can find out about the Royal Oak disaster and view the files of war-time photographs. There are audio visual displays which illustrate the history of Scapa Flow, as well as children’s activities. There is also a gift shop and café. It is not essential to take a car, as the Museum is a two minute walk from the pier. If visitors do wish to take a car, they need to book onto the ferry on telephone 01856 811397.