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, scorpionfish, and nudibranchs exploring the wreck. On occasion, lucky divers might spot stingrays or even dolphins in the surrounding waters. This biodiversity makes the wreck an exciting site not only for wreck enthusiasts but also for underwater photographers and marine life lovers.
Safety Considerations
The Um El Faroud is more than just a dive site; it’s a memorial, an artificial reef, and an adventure all in one. It serves as a tribute to the workers who lost their lives in the tragic accident, while also offering a sanctuary for marine life and an exhilarating challenge for divers. Whether you are drawn to its history, marine biodiversity, or technical diving aspects, this wreck promises an unforgettable experience.
The Um El Faroud wreck is a jewel in Malta’s rich diving scene, providing a perfect blend of history, adventure, and marine beauty. With its fascinating backstory, diverse aquatic life, and thrilling dive opportunities, it continues to captivate divers from around the world. If you are an advanced diver seeking an extraordinary underwater adventure, the Um El Faroud should be at the top of your dive list!