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MV Karwela Wreck: A Gozo Diving Paradise
Explore the MV Karwela wreck in Gozo: a captivating dive site with rich history, unique structure, and thriving marine life, perfect for experienced divers.
The MV Karwela wreck, scuttled off Gozo's southeastern coast in 2006, is a premier diving site. This former passenger ferry, now an artificial reef, sits upright at 40m, offering accessible penetration, stunning underwater photography, and diverse marine life, making it a must-see for experienced divers.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to MV Karwela wreck
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
278P+M75, Unnamed Road, Ghajnsielem, MT
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Getting There
Public Transport
From the Mġarr ferry terminal, take bus route 300, 301, 303 or 323 towards Victoria (Rabat). Alight at the Ghajnsielem bus stop. From there, it's approximately a 25-minute walk (2km) to Xatt l-Aħmar. A single bus ticket costs €2.50.
Taxi
From the Mġarr ferry terminal, a taxi to Xatt l-Aħmar costs approximately €15. The journey is around 10 minutes, offering a direct and convenient option. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting the ride.
Walking
From Ghajnsielem, follow the road signs towards Xatt l-Aħmar. The walk is approximately 2km and takes around 25 minutes. Note that the final stretch involves walking down a concrete track through farmland. This option is free but requires a moderate level of fitness.
Local tips
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The MV Karwela is best suited for experienced divers with deep diving certification due to its depth of 40 meters.
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Consider bringing an underwater camera to capture the iconic staircase and abundant marine life.
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Check diving conditions and visibility before heading out, as they can vary.
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Be aware of currents and plan your dive accordingly, especially when penetrating the wreck.
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Arrive early to secure a parking spot at Xatt l-Aħmar, as it can get crowded, especially during peak season.
Discover more about MV Karwela wreck
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.
A brief summary to MV Karwela wreck
Use MV Karwela wreck as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
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