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HMS Southwold

HMS Southwold

Malta Island, Malta

Depth
Depth Icon

73m

Visibility
Visibility Icon

- - -

Entry
Boat Entry Icon

Boat

Experience Level

Technical


About HMS Southwold

HMS Southwold is a significant World War II wreck located approximately 2.5 km off Marsaskala, east of Malta. This British Hunt class destroyer, measuring about 85 m in length and 9.5 m in beam, met its fate on 24 March 1942 when it hit a mine and sunk. The wreck is split into two parts, lying some 300 m apart on a sandy bottom. The larger bow part, about 40 m in length, rests on its starboard side at a depth of 68 m, while the stern part, approximately 28 m long, sits upright at a depth of 73 m. Both sections are considered technical dives.

As of 1st May 2019, the management of HMS Southwold was taken over by Heritage Malta, and a special permit is required to dive the wreck. The wreck's sister ship, HMS Oakley (L72), later renamed ORP Kujawiak in Poland, is another deep wreck dive in the vicinity. The dive site is recommended for technical divers due to its depth and complexity. The site is a wreck dive, offering a glimpse into the maritime history of the region.

HMS Southwold Dive Info

Terrain & Features

Wreck

Entry Type

Boat

Max Depth

73m

Visibility Range

Experience Level

Technical

Best Gas

Marine Life

  • Various
Weather Conditions

Water Temperature
Dive Operators near HMS Southwold

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Location

Dive Site Hazards

Hazards data unavailable.

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