MV Karwela Wreck: A Gozo Diving Paradise

The MV Karwela wreck is one of three intriguing wrecks located off Xatt l-Aħmar on Gozo's southeastern coast. Intentionally sunk in August 2006 along with the MV Cominoland, the Karwela serves as an artificial reef and a unique scuba diving attraction.Built in 1957 in West Germany, the ship initially sailed as the MS Frisia II before being renamed MV Nordpaloma in 1977. In 1986, it was brought to Malta and rechristened MV Karwela, operating as a tourist ferry until 2002. Captain Morgan Cruises previously used the ferry to transport tourists around the Grand Harbour in Valletta.The MV Karwela sits upright on a sandy bottom at a maximum depth of 40 meters and is approximately 50 meters long. The bow is at 39 meters, while the stern rests at 41 meters. The top deck, including the captain's cabin, begins at 30 meters. Before being scuttled, the ship was prepared by removing hazardous materials and creating large openings for safe penetration. A Volkswagen Beetle was placed on the starboard deck shortly after sinking, though little remains today.Divers can explore multiple decks, open corridors, and the ship's iconic central staircase. Marine life, including schools of damselfish, cardinalfish, rainbow wrasse, and breams, populate the wreck. The wreck is accessible from the shore at Xatt l-Aħmar.