New legal protection for Scapa Flow naval wrecks and the 18th‑century “Queen of Sweden” sees sites safeguarded for future generations.
The entire Imperial German Navy's High Seas Fleet of 74 ships had been assembled in the natural harbour at Scapa Flow in the Orkney Islands, following the cessation of hostilities on 11th November 1918.
From 1 November 2025, Scotland’s underwater heritage gains new protections: the shipwrecks of Scapa Flow and the 1745 wreck of the Swedish East Indiaman Queen of Sweden are now designated Historic Marine Protected Areas. The move ensures these powerful symbols of maritime history remain preserved—and accessible—while defended against disturbance.
What’s designated
Scapa Flow contains the UK’s largest collection of wartime wrecks, including scuttled German High Seas Fleet vessels from 1919. The Queen of Sweden, one of the best‑preserved 18th‑century trading ships in British waters, lies just off Lerwick and draws local divers. Both sites are now legally protected against removal, alteration, or disturbance.
Why it matters
Gillian Martin, Scotland’s Cabinet Secretary for Climate Action and Energy, stated the new HMPAs acknowledge national value and ensure future ecotourists and historians can explore and learn responsibly. Local leaders echoed the sentiment, noting heritage value, tourism benefits, and the urgency to save deteriorating wreck sites.
Diving heritage
These designations reinforce existing regulations: diving to look—but not touch—is permitted, but artefact removal or interference is now a criminal offence. They strengthen Scotland’s expanding MPA network, which now safeguards approximately 37% of its seas, protecting geological, ecological, and historical features alike.
