7R Diving House Reef - The Fireworks Barge Wreck
7R Diving House Reef - The Fireworks Barge Wreck, St. Julian’s Bay, Malta
Depth: 8m (avg), 10m (max)
Level: Beginner
Overview:
This unique wreck dive features a modern barge with an unusual past. Known as the Fireworks Barge Wreck, it offers divers an off-the-beaten-path experience in shallow, clear waters, making it accessible for beginners while still intriguing seasoned divers.
History & Background:
- History: Originally used as a platform for launching fireworks.
- Sinking: On the evening of 6th September 2009, a series of accidental fireworks explosions severely damaged the barge.
Wreck Details:
- Dimensions: Approximately 30 meters in length.
- Depth: Lies at an average depth of 8 meters, reaching a maximum depth of 10 meters.
- Position: Capsized and resting on its underside.
Dive Highlights:
- Accessibility: The shallow depth and easy access from the dive center’s doorstep make it ideal for beginner divers and snorkelers (in favorable conditions), while still offering enough intrigue for experienced divers.
- Marine Life: Schools of damselfish, cardinalfish, and wrasses are commonly seen darting around the wreck, while moray eels hide within its crevices. Octopuses and cuttlefish frequently make an appearance, using their camouflage to blend into the surroundings. The site is also home to fireworms, sand gobies, red sponges, and patches of soft coral, adding color to the wreck. Occasionally, barracudas and breams pass through, particularly in warmer months. The surrounding sandy seabed may also reveal hidden species like stingrays or flatfish.
- Extended Bottom Time: The shallow depth allows for prolonged underwater exploration without the complexities of deep diving.
Why Visit?
The Fireworks Barge Wreck remains a hidden dive site in the heart of Malta. Its unusual history combined with the accessibility makes it a fascinating destination for divers seeking to explore a modern wreck.
