Steamship · 1904–1940 · Orkney, United Kingdom
The SS Ilsenstein, a steamship built in 1904, was scuttled as a blockship in Skerry Sound, Scapa Flow, during 1940. Originally constructed as the Matatua by Workman, Clark & Co. Ltd. in Belfast, she was later renamed Ilsenstein in 1928. By 1939, the vessel had been sold for scrapping but was instead requisitioned by the Admiralty and sunk to replace the SS Cape Ortegal.
The wreck was surveyed in 2013, revealing that much of her structure is buried under sand. Her remains, oriented north to south, are partially visible with the bow standing prominently above the seabed. The stern section, however, is largely covered by sand.
The site is accessible from the shores of Barrier 2 in Scapa Flow, with notable features including a large triple expansion engine and several boilers still identifiable despite the passage of time.
8 of 9 facts above are cited in Sources below.
Built 1904; 36 years in service. Lost February 18th, 1940, scuttled.
This is a legally protected site.
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.
A further 3 fields were derived from the wreck’s recorded position rather than taken from a source.
ILSENSTEIN is a steamship wreck located off Orkney, United Kingdom at a depth of 7 metres. The vessel was lost by scuttling in 1940. The wreck is diveable.
ILSENSTEIN lies at 5 to 7 metres depth, Scapa Flow, Orkney.
ILSENSTEIN was deliberately scuttled on February 18th, 1940, off Orkney, United Kingdom.
As reported, diving the ILSENSTEIN 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.
ILSENSTEIN is accessed by shore from Kirkwall, Orkney, United Kingdom.