divemalta.com · Operator
Technical dive page with trimix, DSMB, current, and seasonal visibility guidance.
Dive Spot Guide•
HMS Southwold
Protected WWII destroyer wreck for experienced technical divers.
Local operator required
Authorised operators are required for permits, boat logistics, current checks, and technical surface support.
Boat-only split wreck off Marsaskala with authorised access, a technical depth profile, and rich marine growth.
About HMS Southwold
HMS Southwold is a protected WWII destroyer wreck off Marsaskala for experienced technical divers. It is a boat-only site split into two sections on a sandy slope, with permit-controlled access, a war-grave setting, and rich marine growth.
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Research Estimate At HMS Southwold
Conservative baseline from public research. No community dives logged yet.
VisibilityVisibility: 20m
AccessDifficult access
CoralHealthy coral
Aquatic LifeGreat variety
FacilitiesLimited facilities
Crowd / PopularityModerate
CurrentStrong current
SurgeModerate surge
Where Is HMS Southwold?
This spotNearby spotsExplore nearby spots on the map
Community sourced coordinates.
HMS Southwold Planning Details
Depth range, seasonality, and planning context.
Reported Depth
68m - 73m
Depth Note
Heritage Malta lists a 73m maximum; directory and operator sources place the bow around 68m and the stern around 72 to 73m.
Best Season
July to September, when visibility and conditions are usually best.
Typical Conditions
Open water in Marsaskala Bay with a two-section wreck, a slope between bow and stern, and current checks before departure.
Safety & Access At HMS Southwold
Site conditions, restrictions, and access requirements.
Site Conditions
Restricted accessStrong currentSurgeWaves
Safety Notes
Trimix is strongly recommended, DSMBs are mandatory, and a full navigation and decompression plan is needed before entering the water.
Access Restrictions
Special permit required; access through registered dive centres and clubs only.
Legal Notes
Protected heritage wreck, war grave, and unexploded ordnance site managed by Heritage Malta; diving must follow permit conditions.
Local Intel For HMS Southwold
Community notes to help plan your visit.
Scuba Diving
Trimix strongly recommended at 70m+. Use a boat-only technical setup with staged decompression gas, two DSMBs per buddy pair, and a planned turn pressure for the return from stern to bow.
Freediving
Not suitable.
Snorkeling
Not suitable.
Wildlife at HMS Southwold
Species commonly reported at this site, with direct links into their wildlife guides.
Recent Logged Visits At HMS Southwold
Community dive logs and visit reports for this site.
Dive Spot Log Averages At HMS Southwold
Average conditions based on logged dives & visits.
Conditions
Avg. Visibility20m
Activity
No dive activity logged yet.
