Oceanatik logo
Oceanatik logo
HomeDestinationsDive SmartScuba Blog
MV Pippo

MV Pippo

Malta, Malta

Depth
Depth Icon

36m

Visibility
Visibility Icon

- - -

Entry
Boat Entry Icon

Boat

Experience Level

Experienced

MV Pippo

Malta, Malta

MV Pippo
Depth
Depth Icon

36m

Visibility
Visibility Icon

- - -

Entry
Boat Entry Icon

Boat

Experience Level

Experienced


About MV Pippo

MV Pippo is a wreck dive located off Ahrax Point near Mellieha Bay in Malta. This 18-metre long fishery workboat, built in 1976 by Vella Boat Yard of Marsa and Philip Formosa, sank in 2004 and now lies in an upright position at a depth of about 35 metres. The wreck is quite well preserved with some fishing industry equipment still attached, like tuna cages at the stern. Although small in size, MV Pippo offers an interesting dive experience, especially for experienced divers due to its depth and the possibility of penetration, albeit limited due to space constraints.

The marine life around the MV Pippo wreck includes small fish, crabs, shrimps, and nudibranchs, with occasional sightings of a big grouper. The dive time is usually quite short as the wreck is small and the seabed around is just sand. The wreck's history adds to its intrigue; originally a research vessel, it was later transformed into a cruise boat before being sold to Azzopardi Fisheries and converted into a fish cargo boat for the Maltese tuna farming industry. The MV Pippo met its end returning from Comino to Malta with a load of tuna when it began to take on water and sank off Ahrax Point. Despite several salvage attempts, the wreck remains a testament to its varied past.

MV Pippo Dive Info

Terrain & Features

Wreck

Entry Type

Boat

Max Depth

36m

Visibility Range

Experience Level

Experienced

Best Gas Mix

21% – 30%

O2

14% at 34m / 32%

O2
Multi-Level Dive Planner
Photo gallery

No photos yet.

Be the first to share your shots from MV Pippo. Your photos help other divers plan their trip.

Marine Life

No marine life details available.

Weather Conditions

Water temperature (℃)
Air temperature range (℃)
Average air temperature (℃)
Wind speed (km/h)
Precipitation (mm)
Dive Operators near MV Pippo

View all operators in Malta
Location

Dive Site Hazards

  • Deceptive Entry Openings — Openings may become restrictive inside due to angle, collapse, or corrosion.

  • Surge-Induced Internal Silt Shift — Internal surge can move silt and debris without direct contact.

  • Partial Overhead Environment — Many wrecks limit direct ascent even without full penetration.

  • Fine Rust Particle Silt-Out — Disturbed rust particles can rapidly reduce visibility.

Discover More

Discover Malta

Oceania - Vanuatu

Vanuatu, a stunning South Pacific archipelago, offers some of the most diverse and exhilarating scuba diving experiences in the world. With its warm tropical waters, vibrant coral reefs, and historic wrecks like the famous SS President Coolidge, Vanuatu is a haven for divers of all skill levels. From exploring volcanic underwater landscapes to encountering rich marine biodiversity, Vanuatu’s pristine dive sites provide unforgettable adventures, all set against a backdrop of lush islands and tranquil lagoons.

Learn More

South America - Brazil

Brazil’s vast coastline and tropical islands make it a captivating destination for scuba diving enthusiasts. From the vibrant reefs of the Abrolhos Archipelago to the historic wrecks of Recife and the dramatic underwater cliffs of Fernando de Noronha, Brazil offers dive experiences for every level. With warm waters, incredible marine biodiversity, and breathtaking underwater landscapes, Brazil is a must-visit destination for divers seeking adventure, beauty, and cultural charm both above and below the surface.

Asia - Philippines

The Philippines, a tropical paradise nestled in the heart of the Coral Triangle, is a premier destination for scuba diving enthusiasts. With over 7,000 islands, it boasts pristine coral reefs, breathtaking underwater landscapes, and a rich diversity of marine life. From the iconic Tubbataha Reefs to the thresher shark encounters in Malapascua, the Philippines offers unparalleled diving experiences for both beginners and seasoned divers. Whether exploring shallow coral gardens or delving into historic WWII wrecks, every dive unveils a new world of adventure.