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.
Unit Settings
| Terrain and Features: | Wreck |
|---|---|
| Entry Type: | Boat |
| Max Depth: | 73m |
| Visibility Range: | - - - |
| Experience Level: | Technical |
| Best Gas: | - |
Unit Settings
Unit Settings
Although we currently lack information on specific hazards at this location, their absence cannot be assumed. Your knowledge and experience with this dive site could greatly enhance our page – we invite you to share your insights.
