Steamship · 1922–1940 · Orkney, United Kingdom
The scuttling of the Empire Seaman in 1940 significantly contributed to the wartime defences in Scapa Flow, serving as a blockship to protect the naval base. Originally built in 1922 as the SS Morea for a German company, she was captured by the British in 1940 and repurposed. Her loss as a blockship marked a strategic move in the region's defence efforts during World War II.
Today, the wreck lies in East Weddel Sound, with machinery and structural remnants still visible. Although extensively salvaged, notable features like the propeller shaft and sections of the mast remain. The wreck is accessible from the Barrier, with parts visible above water at low tide, offering divers a chance to explore the propeller shaft tunnel and surrounding debris.
7 of 8 facts above are cited in Sources below.
Built 1922; 18 years in service. Lost 1940, scuttled.
A reference and a starting point, not a dive plan. Plan any dive with a local professional who knows the site and the conditions on the day.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Water temp | 6° | 6.5° | 7° | 8° | 9.5° | 11° | 12.5° | 14° | 13° | 11° | 8.5° | 7° |
| Visibility | 5m | 5m | 6m | 8m | 10m |
A further 4 fields were derived from the wreck’s recorded position rather than taken from a source.
EMPIRE SEAMAN is a steamship wreck located off Orkney, United Kingdom at a depth of 6 metres. The vessel was lost by scuttling in 1940. The wreck is diveable.
EMPIRE SEAMAN lies at approximately 6 metres depth, Scapa Flow, Orkney.
EMPIRE SEAMAN was deliberately scuttled on 1940, off Orkney, United Kingdom.
As reported, diving the EMPIRE SEAMAN is rated beginner and is suitable for newly certified Open Water divers. Minimum certification: Confirm with a local operator. A reference and a starting point, not a dive plan. Plan any dive with a local professional who knows the site and the conditions on the day.
The best months to dive EMPIRE SEAMAN are May, June, July, August, September. Water temperature ranges from 6°C in winter to 14°C in summer.
EMPIRE SEAMAN is accessed by boat from Kirkwall, Orkney, United Kingdom.
| 18m |
| 18m |
| 14m |
| 9m |
| 6m |
| 5m |
| Access | poor | poor | poor | marginal | good | good | good | good | good | marginal | poor | poor |
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| Marine life | Lowwinter conditions | Lowwinter conditions | Lowwinter conditions | Moderateseason starting; seals present | Moderateseals, wrasse, lobster, soft corals | Highseals, jellyfish, lobster, wrasse, soft corals, pollock shoals | Highseals, jellyfish, lobster, wrasse, soft corals, pollock shoals | Highseals, jellyfish, lobster, wrasse, soft corals, pollock shoals | Goodseals, lobster, wrasse, soft corals | Goodseals, lobster, wrasse, soft corals | Lowwinter conditions | Lowwinter conditions |
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