The Um El Faroud Wreck Malta is renowned for its stunning dive sites, and one of its most iconic wrecks is the Um El Faroud. Resting off the coast of Wied iż-Żurrieq, this wreck is a must-visit destination for divers seeking an exciting and immersive underwater experience. Once a mighty Libyan oil tanker, the Um El Faroud met a tragic fate before being repurposed as an artificial reef. Today, it attracts thousands of divers annually, offering a unique blend of history, marine life, and exploration. The History of Um El Faroud The Um El Faroud was built in 1969 in England and served as an oil tanker for Libya. Measuring 110 meters in length and 16 meters in width, it was a formidable vessel used for transporting fuel across the Mediterranean. However, its operational days came to an abrupt end in 1995 when a devastating accident occurred during maintenance work at the Malta Drydocks. A gas explosion on board tragically killed nine Maltese workers, leading to the vessel being deemed beyond repair. In honor of the lives lost, a plaque is placed on the wreck as a tribute. After spending three years docked at the Grand Harbour, the Maltese authorities decided to scuttle the ship in 1998 to create an artificial reef. The wreck now lies approximately 36 meters deep, making it accessible to advanced divers looking for an extraordinary dive experience. Diving the Um El Faroud Wreck Location and Conditions The Um El Faroud wreck is located just off the coast of Wied iż-Żurrieq, near the famous Blue Grotto. The wreck sits on a sandy seabed at a depth of 35-36 meters, while the highest point of the ship is at around 18 meters. The waters around the wreck generally offer excellent visibility, ranging from 20 to 40 meters, allowing divers to fully appreciate the grandeur of this sunken giant. Google Map location. Exploring the Wreck Diving the Um El Faroud is an unforgettable experience. The ship is split into two sections due to storm damage in 2005, which adds to its dramatic and haunting beauty. Divers can explore the engine room, cargo holds, bridge, and walkways, all of which are now home to a variety of marine life. For those with appropriate wreck penetration training, there are several safe entry points that allow for an eerie yet fascinating exploration of the ship’s interior. However, the depth and size of the wreck make it best suited for advanced and technical divers. If you want to book a diving trip to explore the Um El Faroud Wreck, contact Dive Vision Malta. Marine Life and Biodiversity Over the years, the Um El Faroud has evolved into a thriving artificial reef, supporting an incredible variety of marine life. Schools of barracuda, amberjack, and bream are often seen circling the wreck, while moray eels and octopuses hide within the crevices. The ship’s surfaces have been colonized by colorful sponges, corals, and algae, creating a vibrant underwater landscape. Divers also frequently encounter groupers, CONTINUE READING
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Comino – A Secret Paradise: Malta’s Latest Underwater Documentary Explores Local Marine Protected Areas
A New Underwater Journey Begins in Comino Malta’s pristine island of Comino has gained new attention with the release of Comino – a Secret Paradise, an underwater documentary that brings the magic of its Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) to life. Produced and scripted by Prof. Alan Deidun of the Department of Geosciences at the University of Malta, this documentary is the latest in a series showcasing the vibrant ecosystems of Malta’s underwater heritage. Funded by the Malta International Airport (MIA) Foundation, Comino made its debut at Eden Cinemas, where St Monica B’Kara primary school students were among the first to experience its immersive visuals. A Celebration of Malta’s Underwater Heritage Prof. Deidun’s ongoing commitment to marine conservation and education shines through each documentary. Each film delves into the particular characteristics of these MPAs, revealing a world of colorful coral formations, diverse fish species, and delicate seagrass meadows that sustain a thriving ecosystem. Through his storytelling, viewers get a rare glimpse into the undersea wonders that are often overlooked, even by locals. The Unique Appeal of Comino The inclusion of Comino in this series is particularly special. Known for its crystal-clear Blue Lagoon and scenic landscapes, Comino is a beloved destination for both locals and tourists. However, as Environment Minister Jose Herrera emphasized during the documentary’s launch, Comino is under threat from illegal development, which disrupts its fragile ecosystems. Herrera highlighted the need for a zero-tolerance approach to such activities, reiterating the government’s commitment to protecting the island’s natural resources. Backed by Global Ocean Advocates The launch event was attended by notable advocates for marine conservation, including Ms. Antonella Vassallo and Dr. Awni Behnam, the Managing Director and Honorary President of the International Ocean Institute (IOI), respectively. The IOI, headquartered at the University of Malta, has long been a key player in international ocean conservation efforts, making their presence a strong endorsement of the documentary’s educational mission. More Than Just a Documentary – It’s a Call to Action At a time when the environment faces unprecedented pressures, the documentary serves as a call to action. By showcasing the unique beauty of Comino and other local MPAs, Comino – a Secret Paradise reminds viewers that these areas are not only essential for biodiversity but are also invaluable cultural and natural assets. International and Local Support for Marine Conservation These productions, particularly those sponsored by the MIA Foundation, have enabled Malta to reach a broader audience, promoting a shared sense of responsibility for the marine environment. The previous three documentaries (Rdum Majjiesa, Dwejra, and Mġarr ix-Xini) were produced with support from the Italia-Malta 2007-2013 PANACEA project, highlighting a successful collaboration between nations on marine conservation initiatives. Engaging Future Generations By screening the documentary for primary school students, the producers are planting seeds of awareness among the next generation. These young viewers are tomorrow’s conservationists and policy-makers, and early exposure to the wonders and vulnerabilities of marine life is a powerful way to instill lifelong respect for nature. Watch Comino – a Secret Paradise CONTINUE READING
