Wreck Diving Malta

Wreck Diving in Gozo, Comino and Malta, some of best In the Mediterranean! We Love Gozo Wreck Diving! Join us to explore Our underwater wreck sites in excellent Maltese visibility!

Explore the amazing world of wreck diving in Malta! Dive into the deep sea to discover sunken ships and fascinating underwater sights. In Malta and around Gozo, there are wrecks from World War II and even artificial reefs made from sunken cargo ships, airplanes, and submarines. The islands’ strategic location in the Mediterranean means there’s a rich history of shipwrecks, especially from the war.

Malta has made intentional efforts to create dive-friendly environments by deliberately sinking ships, making it a haven for wreck divers. Malta has something for everyone but you can explore wrecks from World War II with advanced diver qualification, while deeper wrecks require technical dive certification. Come Wreck diving in Gozo and uncover the mysteries of Malta’s underwater world, filled with historic wrecks and stunning photography opportunities!

HMS St Angelo Wreck

The St. Angelo was a WWII Mine Sweeper which hit a mine on its way to the Grand Harbour. It now lies in 53 m of water.

HMS St. Angelo, a significant relic from World War II, rests as a wreck off the coast of Malta. Originally serving as a tug boat, its primary role was transporting personnel from Fort St. Angelo to warships stationed in Grand Harbour and various ports across Malta. Beyond its transport duties, St. Angelo played versatile roles such as rescue operations, towing, and later, minesweeping.

Tragedy struck on May 30, 1942, when HMS St. Angelo hit a mine, leading to its sinking just outside Valletta. The wreck, approximately 24 meters in length, now lies upright on the sandy seabed at a depth of 54 meters, situated about 1.5 km off the entrance of Grand Harbour.

Exploring the HMS St. Angelo wreck is an endeavor reserved for technical divers or those with extensive experience, considering the depth and potential hazards. Moreover, this dive site poses additional challenges as it is deemed risky unless the harbor is closed on specific dates due to its location in the maritime channel, intersecting with busy ship traffic entering and exiting Valletta.

Originally fulfilling the critical role of transporting personnel and goods during wartime, the HMS St. Angelo wreck has become a poignant underwater monument, accessible only to skilled divers willing to delve into its historical depths.

MV Cominoland Wreck

The 39 m long MV Cominoland, an old ferry used for tourist day-trips round Comino, was scuttled in August 2006 to form an artificial reef for wrekc diving Gozo’s south-east coast. This wreck stands perfectly upright and approximately 80 metres from the entry point. The two decks offer plenty of potential for exploration and the sandy bottom around the wreck is an excellent home to several rays, gurnards and giant tuns. The close-by reef offers an excellent way to continue the dive, gradually ascending along the wall and making a safety stop on the 5 m-deep plateau above.

 

MV Cominoland stands among the trio of sunken vessels off the shores of Xatt l-Ahmar in southeast Gozo. Once a Captain Morgan Cruises passenger ship, Cominoland navigated the seas, offering day trips around Comino and harbor cruises in Valletta. In August 2006, she was intentionally scuttled alongside MV Karwela to transform into an artificial reef, catering to the underwater realm of scuba diving. Notably, the third wreck, MV Xlendi, had found its submerged resting place seven years earlier in 1999.

Measuring approximately 35 meters in length, MV Cominoland gracefully maintains an upright posture on the sandy seabed, reaching a maximum depth of around 40 meters. With two accessible decks, the wreck invites exploration, and its safety for penetration is ensured by strategically cut openings before its intentional sinking. The descent into the underwater realm of MV Cominoland begins at 32 meters, with the deck at 35 meters, and the bows extending to 39 meters in depth.

Positioned about 60 meters east of Karwela, MV Cominoland ranks as the second most frequented wreck dive in Gozo. While offering more allure than the upturned Xlendi, it stands smaller than Karwela and a bit farther from the shore. All three wrecks are typically approached as shore dives, although diving from a boat is also a viable option.

P31 Wreck

The P31 was built in the 1960’s in former East Germany as a Kondor Class boat designed as a minesweeper. Like her sister ship the P29, she is 52 m long and last served as a patrol boat for the Armed Forces of Malta during the mid 1990’s until 2004.  

Embark on an extraordinary underwater journey with the P31 wreck, a captivating dive site steeped in history and aquatic wonders. Originally a German minesweeper, the P31 found a new purpose as a patrol boat for the Armed Forces of Malta after being sold to the Maltese Government in 1992. Notably, it played a vital role in the rescue of 251 illegal immigrants, showcasing its significance in safeguarding Maltese waters.

Purposefully scuttled in 2009, the P31 wreck now lies perfectly upright on a sandy bottom, inviting divers to explore its depths at a maximum of 20 meters. This unique setting makes it an ideal destination for Open Water divers, offering an accessible and captivating underwater experience.

Known as Patrol Boat 31 or Pasewalk, the P31 stands as the only wreck around Comino island, making it a popular boat dive site. Positioned on the west coast of Comino, between Lantern Point and Cominotto, the wreck spans 52 meters in length and sits almost upright on white sand. While its depth varies from 20 meters under the bow to 18 meters at the stern, the P31 wreck provides divers of all levels with an engaging and diverse underwater landscape.

Malta Wreck Dive enthusiasts can navigate through the P31 wreck, exploring its interior from stern to bow. The wreck’s shallow depth makes it an excellent training ground for beginners and an interesting site for experienced divers. Whether you choose to enter the P31 or explore its exterior, the wreck offers a wealth of marine life, adding to the allure of this underwater marvel.

Imagine swimming through the corridors of a former patrol boat, now adorned with vibrant marine life, and encountering thousands of saddled seabreams eager for a diver’s attention. It’s a unique underwater spectacle where history and nature harmoniously converge.

But the story doesn’t end here. P31 has sister ships that share a similar fate. P29 (Boltenhagen) met its underwater destiny off Cirkewwa in 2007, while P30 awaits its fate at Marsa docks after being laid up in 2013. Each vessel contributes to Malta’s underwater tapestry, creating a network of artificial reefs and captivating dive sites.

Discover the wonders of the P31 wreck, where every dive unveils the fusion of history, marine life, and the thrill of underwater exploration in the crystal-clear waters of Malta.

Blenheim Bomber Wreck

This exciting offshore dive, 800 m from nearest point, is restricted to experienced divers because of the depth and condition of this World War II Blenheim Bomber. The engine and wings are intact, but the fore-section of the fuselage has been smashed off and now lies upside down several metres in front of the main part of the wreckage. The rear landing wheel is still attached and points up towards the surface. Amazingly, the tyre is still inflated with air after more than 60 years underwater.

Resting 40 meters below the surface amidst small reefs, the Bristol Blenheim Bomber is situated at the southern tip of Malta, just under a kilometer off the shores of Xrobb il-Ghagin. This underwater site stands out as a top choice for seasoned divers. As you descend to 20 meters, the outlines of the wreckage become apparent, revealing recognizable features such as wings, engines, and propellers. Noteworthy elements like the landing gear and portions of the cockpit are also observable. On December 13, 1941, the Bristol Blenheim bomber met its fate in a sea emergency landing.

HMS Stubborn Wreck

The HMS Stubborn, a British submarine built in Birkenhead, lies intact almost upright on a sandy bottom approximately 4.5km north of Qawra Point. After a terrible incident, which luckily left no fatal consequences, the now damaged HMS Stubborn was scuttled as a checkpoint target for the British Navy’s sonar signals. This dive is only for very experienced divers and although the hatches are open, penetration of the wreck is not advised.  

The sunken remains of HMS Stubborn (P238) lie off the coast of Malta, approximately 3 km northeast of Qawra Point. Positioned on a sandy seabed, the wreck maintains a relatively upright and intact posture, leaning towards the starboard side. With a maximum depth of 56 meters and its upper section reaching around 50 meters, the dive to explore Stubborn is reserved for those with technical expertise or extensive diving experience.

HMS Stubborn, originally a British S-class submarine measuring 66 meters in length and 7 meters in width, was intentionally scuttled by the Royal Navy on April 30, 1946, serving as a target for submarine sonar training.

Malta boasts other submarine wrecks for diving enthusiasts, such as HMS Olympus and HMS Urge, both resting at a depth of 130 meters after encountering mines during World War II in 1942. The allure of HMS Stubborn lies in its cool wreck status, providing a captivating departure from the more common ship and plane dives. Notably, it stands out as the sole submarine wreck at a relatively accessible depth in Malta, as others are located beyond the 100-meter mark.

MV Karwela Wreck

The 58 m long MV Karwela, an old tourist ferry around the Grand Harbour, was scuttled in August 2006 to form an artificial reef on Gozo’s south-east coast. This wreck stands perfectly upright and approximately 80 metres from the entry point. There is plenty to explore on its three decks including the shell of an old but well decorated Volkswagen Beetle on the sun-deck. The close-by reef offers an excellent way to continue the dive, gradually ascending along the wall and making a safety stop on the 5 m-deep plateau above.  

Explore the underwater wonders of MV Karwela, a captivating dive site off the south-eastern coast of Gozo. This former Captain Morgan Cruises passenger ferry, scuttled in August 2006 alongside MV Cominoland, now serves as an artificial reef, teeming with marine life for scuba diving enthusiasts. The third companion wreck, MV Xlendi, joined this underwater ensemble in 1999.

Resting perfectly upright on the sandy seabed, MV Karwela spans an impressive 50 meters, with a maximum depth of around 40 meters. Its well-thought-out scuttling process ensures safety for divers, allowing for penetration through various openings and exploration of its three decks. The wreck’s bow lies at 39 meters, while the stern gracefully rests at 41 meters. Dive into the captivating depths to discover a staircase, illuminated by portholes, leading to the lower deck—a mesmerizing sight for underwater adventurers.

Positioned in the middle of the trio of wrecks at Xatt l-Ahmar, Karwela offers a compelling underwater experience. Its strategic location, closer to the shore and more extensive than Cominoland, makes it one of the most dived wrecks around Gozo. A fascinating addition to Karwela’s history involves the sinking of a Volkswagen Beetle onto its starboard deck shortly after scuttling. Although the car wreck is no longer visible, it adds a touch of intrigue to the site.

MV Karwela’s journey began in West Germany in 1957 as M/S Frisia II, later renamed MV Nordpaloma in 1977. In 1986, she found her way to Malta, becoming MV Karwela in 1992 under Captain Morgan Cruises. After serving as a tourist ferry until 2002, the Gozo Tourism Association orchestrated her intentional sinking in 2006, ensuring environmental safety and providing a canvas for marine life to flourish.

Witness the fusion of history and marine biodiversity as you explore MV Karwela. Dive enthusiasts can revel in the thrill of discovering hidden corners, photogenic staircases, and the remnants of a once-active ferry that now stands as a beacon of underwater exploration off Gozo’s captivating coast.

MV Rozi Wreck

The tugboat Rożi was scuttled in 1992 as an underwater attraction for tourists on submarine tours. This wreck sits perfectly upright on a sandy bottom with thousands of fish surrounding it, chromis, bream and sand smelt predominating. Barracuda and amberjack are also common sightings. Approximately 30 m from the bow of the Rożi, a huge anchor lies embedded in the sand.

Embark on a captivating underwater adventure at the renowned Rozi wreck, situated in the picturesque Cirkewwa on Malta’s northwest coast. This former tugboat, steeped in history, adds allure to the vibrant world beneath the surface and stands as one of the most sought-after dive sites in the Maltese archipelago.

With a length of approximately 35 meters, MV Rozi rests gracefully upright on the sandy seabed, its mast extending from 20 meters and most of the wreck nestled between 30 and 34 meters of water. Easily accessible from the shore, Rozi lies a mere 130 meters from the nearest entry point, her stern brushing against the reef while her bows face the open sea. The wreck, fully intact except for its engine and propeller removed pre-scuttling, invites divers into a mesmerizing world filled with penetration possibilities.

Delve into the heart of MV Rozi, where history and marine life converge. This underwater gem, scuttled in 1992 for submarine tours and as an artificial reef, offers a stunning wreck dive experience. Explore its intriguing features, and consider combining your Rozi adventure with a visit to the nearby Cirkewwa Arch for an immersive underwater excursion.

MV Rozi’s origins trace back to Bristol, England, where she was crafted by Charles Hill & Sons Ltd and launched in 1958. Originally named MV Rossmore, she served in Liverpool before being sold to Mifsud Brothers Ltd and finding a new home in Malta as MV Rozi in 1981. Operating in Grand Harbour for two decades, Rozi concluded its active service in 1992, transitioning into the vibrant underwater attraction it is today.

Rozi’s rich history, combined with its accessibility and captivating underwater landscape, beckons divers of all levels. Traverse its decks, discover hidden corners, and witness the marine life that has made this artificial reef their home. MV Rozi stands as a testament to Malta’s commitment to preserving maritime heritage while providing a thrilling experience for divers exploring its depths.

HMS Southwold Wreck

The HMS Southwold was a British Destroyer which hit a mine in WWII. Many attempts to salvage it were futile as it was under severe attack from enemy aircraft. It lies in two pieces and can be explored by Technical Divers Only as one part at 63 m and the other half at 78 m of water.

Dive into the pages of history with the HMS Southwold, a distinguished World War II wreck off the shores of Malta. This British Hunt-class destroyer, measuring 86 meters in length and armed with formidable weaponry, found its final resting place about 2.5 km east of Marsaskala after hitting a mine on March 24, 1942.

Now managed by Heritage Malta and requiring a special permit for exploration, the wreck is divided into two sections on the sandy seabed, each offering a unique perspective into the ship’s storied past. The larger bow, stretching 40 meters and resting on its starboard side at 68 meters deep, showcases remarkable preservation, complete with a double anti-aircraft cannon. Venturing towards the midship reveals the aftermath of the explosion, with scattered weaponry fragments and remnants of the crew’s quarters.

A second part of the wreck, the stern, approximately 28 meters in length, sits upright 73 meters deep, offering divers a chance to witness the extent of the ship’s impact. As you navigate through these underwater relics, you’ll encounter a vibrant marine ecosystem, with groupers, moray eels, and an array of colorful fish calling the wreck home.

HMS Southwold, with its significant role in escorting convoys during the war, stands as a testament to the battles fought at sea. Its wreckage not only provides a captivating dive site for enthusiasts but also serves as a living museum, where the marine life intertwines with the historical artifacts, creating a unique and immersive underwater experience. The wreck beckons divers and history buffs alike, making it a noteworthy highlight on the map of Maltese wrecks.

Le Polynesien Wreck

Le Polynesien was a French Freighter sunk in WWI. Being 145 m long, it lies at a depth that varies between 53 m and 70 m. This wreck has been nicknamed the “Plate Ship” because of the number of artefacts still on it.

Embark on a journey to the depths of history with Le Polynesien, a remarkable World War I wreck dive off the shores of Malta. SS Polynesien, a 19th-century French ocean liner, met its fate in August 1918, succumbing to a torpedo strike about 3 km east of Marsaskala. Resting at a depth of 45 m (upmost structures) to 65 m (seabed), this colossal wreck spans 152 meters and holds the legacy of a bygone era.

Le Polynesien, also known as Tal-Platti (‘plate ship’) in Maltese, stands as one of the largest wrecks in Malta. Despite sinking a century ago, the wreck remains remarkably well-preserved, offering technical divers a glimpse into its historical richness. Protected by the depths, it requires the expertise of only the most seasoned (wreck) divers or technical enthusiasts due to its exposure to strong currents.

As you descend into the abyss, the bow section reveals intact deck structures, showcasing visible remnants like front deck cannons and anchors. The cargo bay holds intriguing artifacts, including motorbike tires and pipes. Moving to the midsection, where the engine room resides, witness the profound impact of the torpedo strike, a testament to the vessel’s wartime ordeal.

The stern section, while bearing some structural scars, mostly stands resilient. Perfectly preserved stern deck cannons and a propeller paint a vivid picture of Polynesien’s former glory. Delve beneath the deck to discover remnants of passenger areas, adorned with light fixtures, bed frames, and even bathtubs.

The wreck’s moniker, Tal-Platti, stems from the abundance of ceramic plates, china, and glass bottles scattered around. Sadly, over the decades, many items have fallen victim to illicit pillaging, despite Malta’s strict laws against removing objects from wrecks.

This deep boat dive, managed by Heritage Malta, demands a special permit and serves as a poignant reminder of a maritime tragedy frozen in time. Le Polynesien beckons experienced divers to explore its depths and witness the silent echoes of a once-vibrant ocean liner.

Have you explored the SS Polynesien yet?

P29 Wreck

The P29 (original name Boltenhagen) was built in the 1960’s in former East Germany as a Kondor Class boat designed as a minesweeper. Like her sister ship the P31, she is 52 m long and last served as a patrol boat for the Armed Forces of Malta during the mid 1990’s until 2004. She was scuttled purposely for divers in 2007 and lies perfectly upright on a sandy bottom at a maximum depth of 36 m, not far from the Rożi. This patrol boat was built in East Germany and was bought by the Maltese Government in 1997. In Germany, she was a minesweeper. In Malta, the P29 was used to patrol the Maltese coast against illegal smuggling and border control. You can learn more about the P29 here.  

Dive into the depths of history with Patrol Boat P29 (Boltenhagen), an iconic wreck off the shores of Cirkewwa in Malta. Once a vigilant patrol boat for the Maritime Squadron of the Armed Forces of Malta, P29 now stands as one of the most sought-after dive sites in the region. Deliberately scuttled in 2007, this wreck serves as both a scuba diving haven and an artificial reef, offering a captivating underwater experience.

Situated approximately 150 m from the Cirkewwa shore and in close proximity to the Tugboat Rozi wreck, P29 stretches 52 m in length, resting upright at a depth of 34 m. The highest point of the wreck reaches just 12 m from the surface, making it accessible for both experienced divers exploring its interior and those admiring the marine life thriving around the exterior.

Divers embarking on this underwater adventure usually start their journey from the shore. A distinctive yellow buoy marks the location during the summer season. En route, a memorial stone on the sandy ocean floor and an old anchor in the sea grass area act as landmarks, guiding enthusiasts towards the P29 wreck. The memorial plaque honors the memory of British diver Frank Pembridge, adding a poignant touch to the dive.

For those choosing not to delve into the wreck’s interior, the exterior of P29 offers a mesmerizing display of marine life, creating an underwater spectacle for all to enjoy. The wreck is a testament to Malta’s commitment to preserving its maritime history while providing a unique experience for divers.

This significant wreck shares a historical lineage with its sister ship, P31, which found its final resting place near Comino in 2009. The Kondor I class minesweeper, originally named Boltenhagen, has a rich history that spans from East Germany to Malta. Built in 1969-70, P29 patrolled the border river between East and West Germany, later serving the German Federal Coast Guard before being decommissioned in 1996.

Acquired by Malta in 1997, P29 continued its service as a patrol boat until 2004. In 2005, the Malta Tourism Authority stepped in, and after extensive cleaning and preparation, the ship was scuttled in August 2007. The careful consideration of environmental safety and the collaboration of Malta Marine Foundation and Cassar Ship Repair ensured the successful transformation of P29 into an alluring diving attraction.

Today, as you explore the underwater realms surrounding Patrol Boat P29, you become part of a unique journey through time, witnessing the fusion of maritime history and vibrant marine life beneath the waves of Cirkewwa.

HMS Hellespont Wreck

HMS Hellespont, a paddle steamer, hit a mine in WWII. It sank immediately and sits upright on the bottom at 41 m creating a Deep Certified Diver Wreck Diving Site

Explore the wartime echoes beneath the waves with HMS Hellespont, a captivating World War II wreck off the coast of the Maltese Islands. Once a crucial steam-powered tug stationed in the Grand Harbour of Valletta, HMS Hellespont met its fate during an air raid on the fateful night of 6-7 April 1942. Subsequently salvaged, filled with debris from bomb damage, and scuttled just beyond the entrance of the Grand Harbour, this sunken relic was rediscovered by divers in 1999.

Situated about 2 miles off the Grand Harbour, the wreck of HMS Hellespont now rests on a sandy seabed, its upright structure reaching from a minimum depth of 35 m to a maximum of 41 m. The 46 m-long vessel, also known as the Paddle Steamer, tells a tale of wartime resilience and sacrifice.

While the wreck remains largely intact, a section of the bow, approximately 15 m, was obliterated during its wartime ordeal and now rests missing from the wreck. Divers exploring the depths will encounter the hauntingly preserved remains of this steam-powered tug, a testament to the turbulent history that unfolded in the waters surrounding the Maltese Islands during World War II.

The discovery of HMS Hellespont in 1999 unveiled a submerged time capsule, offering divers a glimpse into the past. As you descend into the depths, the wreck emerges perfectly upright, revealing the enduring spirit of a vessel that once navigated the bustling waters of the Grand Harbour. While the missing bow section hints at the wartime scars endured, the majority of the wreck stands as a silent witness to history.

Dive into the heart of this submerged memorial, where the sandy bottom cradles the remnants of HMS Hellespont, inviting explorers to connect with a pivotal chapter in Malta’s maritime history. The sunken tug bears witness to the resilience of nations during times of conflict, and its rediscovery in 1999 adds a layer of intrigue to the underwater tapestry surrounding the Maltese Islands.

Have you explored the HMS Hellespont yet?

Imperial Eagle Wreck

The Imperial Eagle, an old ferry, was scuttled in July 1999 and lies perfectly upright on a sandy seabed. The deck is approximately 30 m deep and the wreck is open for penetration. Not far from the wreck, approximately 30 m from the bow, there is a large statue of Jesus Christ with outstretched arms. The Imperial Eagle was owned by the Pisani family in Gozo and used to serve as a method of transportation, for cargo and passengers, between Gozo and Malta. The ship was sunk in 1999, 40mts deep. It is located off Qawra Point in Malta. See the map below

Embark on a captivating underwater journey at the MV Imperial Eagle, a sunken relic off the shores of Qawra in north-eastern Malta. This former ferry boat, scuttled in 1999, now stands as an intriguing artificial reef and a magnet for experienced divers seeking the thrill of deep-sea exploration.

Resting about half a kilometer northeast of Qawra Point, the Imperial Eagle wreck extends its allure to those daring enough to dive its depths. This boat dive, reserved for seasoned divers, unveils a submerged world where the wreck, approximately 45 m long, proudly stands upright on the sandy seabed. With a maximum depth of 42 m and the deck accessible at 32 m, the Imperial Eagle invites adventurers to penetrate its underwater chambers, navigating through corridors and exploring what remains of its metal structures. The wooden elements have yielded to time, leaving a skeletal framework that tells the tale of its marine metamorphosis.

The proximity of the Imperial Eagle to Qawra Reef adds an extra layer of excitement to the dive. At 25 m, the reef showcases a natural rock arch, and just beyond it, a relic from centuries past—the imposing anchor, wedged between rocks and sandy bottom, hailing from the 1600s. As divers explore the underwater valley in front of the wreck, the Statue of Christ (Kristu tal-Bahhara) emerges as a poignant sentinel, offering a unique blend of maritime history and spiritual presence.

This sunken vessel is part of a roster of wrecks intentionally submerged around Malta, transforming the seabed into an underwater museum for enthusiasts. The Imperial Eagle, with its rich history, adds a unique chapter to this underwater narrative. Originally launched in 1938 as the New Royal Lady, she played roles in excursions, river cruises, and transport duties during World War II before finding a new life as a ferry between Malta and Gozo, and eventually as a cargo carrier.

In 1995, the Imperial Eagle found a new purpose as the centerpiece of an underwater marine park. The culmination of bureaucratic processes led to its scuttling on July 19, 1999, marking the beginning of its second life beneath the waves. Today, the Imperial Eagle welcomes divers to explore its underwater realm, revealing the hidden wonders of Malta’s maritime past. The addition of the Statue of Christ in 2000 further enhances the mystique, creating a unique dive site where history and nature converge beneath the waves

MV Xlendi Wreck

The 80 m long MV Xlendi, an old ro-ro ferry, was scuttled in November 1999 to form an artificial reef on Gozo’s south-east coast. Unfortunately, this wreck ended up completely upside down and due to the weight of the hull, the whole section above the deck was crashed. However, the MV Xlendi still offers a good dive for experienced divers. The propellers, one on each end, are found at approximately 32 m depth and fish life is quite abundant all around the wreck. Wreck penetration is not recommended due to its very unstable condition. An old car lies next to the ferry on the coast side.

Explore the submerged history of Gozo with the MV Xlendi wreck, a captivating dive site off the shores of Xatt l-Ahmar in southeastern Gozo. Once a double-ended cargo ferry connecting Malta and Gozo, MV Xlendi was intentionally scuttled in November 1999, transforming into an artificial reef that beckons experienced divers to uncover its secrets.

Stretching approximately 80 m along a sandy slope, the MV Xlendi rests at a depth of 42 m on the shore side and 44 m on the sea side, with its propellers marking the shallowest point at around 32 m. While wreck penetration is discouraged due to its unstable condition, the site remains a fascinating exploration for seasoned divers. The abundance of fish life swirling around the wreck adds to the allure, creating a vibrant underwater spectacle. On the shore side, a car wreck further enhances the maritime landscape near Xlendi.

In the underwater realm of Xatt l-Ahmar, MV Xlendi finds company with two other wrecks, MV Karwela and MV Cominoland, both scuttled in 2006. Positioned about 60 m west of Karwela, Xlendi and its neighboring wrecks are popular dive sites accessible from both the shore and by boat. For those seeking more underwater adventures, Xlendi Bay nearby boasts a beautiful tunnel cave and a reef adorned with a pinnacle, offering a diverse range of diving experiences.

Delve into the history of MV Xlendi, a vessel with roots in Denmark’s Helsingør Værft shipyard, initially serving as a train ferry in 1955. Over the years, the ferry underwent several name changes, from MV Helsingør to MV Royal Sheeba in 1987, and finally to MV Borgshorn in 1988. Acquired by Gozo Channel Co Ltd in 1990, the ferry assumed the name MV Xlendi until it ceased operations in 1997. Donated to the Gozo Tourism Association, MV Xlendi found its purpose as Gozo’s inaugural artificial reef when it was scuttled on November 12, 1999. Despite the unintended upside-down positioning during the scuttling process, the wreck retains its allure, beckoning divers to witness the fusion of history and marine life beneath the waves.

Um El Faroud Wreck

The ill-fated Um El Faroud has been scuttled in 1998 following a terrible explosion on board that killed 9 Maltese dockyard workers. Now, with a memorial brass plaque in place, the ship sits upright on a sandy bottom and at 10.000 tons and 110 m long, the Um El Faroud is an impressive sight.  

Explore the intriguing underwater world off the coast of Wied iz-Zurrieq in Malta with the MV Um El Faroud wreck—a captivating dive site with a rich history. This Libyan oil tanker, built in the UK in 1969 and originally named MV Seafalcon, transitioned to MV Um El Faroud in Libya before meeting its fate in a catastrophic explosion during maintenance works in Malta’s Grand Harbour on February 3, 1995.

After the tragic incident that claimed nine lives, including Maltese dockyard workers, and left the tanker irreparably damaged, Um El Faroud was reborn as an artificial reef and scuba diving attraction. In a symbolic move, the wreck was scuttled off the coast of Wied iz-Zurrieq on September 2, 1998, providing divers with a unique opportunity to explore its underwater secrets.

The wreck stretches 110 m in length with a beam of approximately 16 m, resting upright on a sandy bottom at depths ranging from 15 m (funnel) to 36 m (propeller). Open for penetration, Um El Faroud offers experienced divers numerous opportunities to navigate its interior, making it an ideal destination for wreck diving enthusiasts.

Over time, the wreck encountered further changes during a heavy storm in the winter of 2005-2006, breaking into two distinct sections and shifting positions. The port side of the bow section now nearly aligns with the starboard side of the stern section, leaving a visible gap between them. Despite these alterations, Um El Faroud remains an enchanting dive site parallel to the West Reef, with its stern closest to the valley and the starboard side facing the reef.

Divers can access Um El Faroud from the shore, approximately 150 m southwest of the entry/exit point in Wied iz-Zurrieq. A diving helmet statue serves as a halfway landmark to guide explorers to the wreck. As a poignant tribute to those who lost their lives in the explosion, a memorial brass plaque bearing their names graces the wreck’s front, emphasizing the historical significance of this underwater memorial.

In the depths of Wied iz-Zurrieq, MV Um El Faroud stands as more than a sunken vessel; it embodies a piece of maritime history, a tribute to lives lost, and a captivating destination for divers seeking adventure and exploration beneath the waves.

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