HMS Maori

HMS Maori, a World War II wreck in the Maltese islands, offers a unique diving experience due to its shallow depth and shore accessibility, setting it apart from many other deeper boat dive sites. As a real war wreck, it's suitable for novice divers, lying on a sandy bottom with a maximum depth of 16 meters. The wreck, approximately 42 meters in length, is notably broken. Originally a 115-meter long British destroyer, HMS Maori met its fate in the Grand Harbour of Valletta in February 1942, sunk by a German air raid. Raised and partially scuttled in St. Elmo Bay near Marsamxett Harbour in July 1945, its current location makes it a popular site for both scuba diving and free diving. Despite being the shallowest wreck dive in Malta, the HMS Maori presents an intriguing exploration with half of it buried in sand, its bows and stern gone, and the front against a rocky reef slope. The remaining structure, mainly the main deck and part of the upper structure, features large round hatches and framework remnants of front gun brass mounting bases. Although the guns were removed post-sinking, the wreck still offers fascinating details for divers, such as shells, cables, and parts of the windlass. However, caution is advised due to the weakening structure and potential collapse risks. The wreck also provides ample opportunities for penetration dives, with various entry and exit points, and an environment rich in light and marine life. Divers need to be mindful of good buoyancy to prevent visibility reduction inside the wreck.

HMS Maori not only serves as an exciting dive site but also as an artificial reef teeming with diverse marine life. The wreck is adorned with green weed and tube worms, and it's home to salema fish, sea breams, cardinal fish, octopus, scorpion fish, hermit crabs, nudibranchs, fire worms, flatfish, burrowing starfish, red mullet, occasionally stingrays, moray eels, cuttlefish, and sometimes even seahorses. St. Elmo Bay's sheltered position makes the HMS Maori accessible for most of the year, although visibility can vary. With several entry and exit points around the bay, divers have options based on conditions and personal preference. However, divers should be aware of potential hazards like slippery surfaces, boat traffic, and local theft. HMS Maori's rich history and diverse marine life make it an ideal site for divers of all levels, including those interested in Malta’s wartime history, as well as for advanced and wreck courses, and even night diving. Underwater photographers will find the light filtering through the wreck particularly captivating. Despite the challenges, the HMS Maori remains a testament to history and a vibrant underwater ecosystem.