Bristol Beaufighter

Bristol Beaufighter Aircraft, Sliema, Malta

Depth: 35m (avg), 38m (max) 

Level: Deep 

Overview:

The Bristol Beaufighter wreck is one of Malta’s most historically significant aircraft wrecks, resting at a depth of 38m off the coast of Sliema. This twin engine heavy fighter was built by the Bristol Aeroplane Company and served in the Royal Air Force (RAF) during World War II. On 17 March 1943, shortly after takeoff from RAF Luqa, the aircraft suffered an engine failure, forcing the crew to ditch it into the sea. Both the pilot and observer survived.

Discovered in 2018, the wreck remains relatively intact, offering divers a rare opportunity to explore a World War II aircraft with many of its key features still visible.

History & Background:

• Service History: The Bristol Beaufighter was a twin-engine, two-seat heavy fighter extensively used by the Royal Air Force (RAF) during World War II. Designed for long range interception, night combat, and ground attack missions, it played a crucial role in various wartime operations.
• Sinking: On March 17, 1943, this particular Beaufighter departed from RAF Luqa on a training mission but experienced engine failure shortly after takeoff. With no way to return safely to base, the pilot and observer were forced to ditch the aircraft into the sea. Fortunately, both crew members escaped unharmed and were quickly rescued.

Wreck Details:

• Dimensions: Measuring 12.6m in length with a 17.6m wingspan, it was heavily armed with cannons, machine guns, and rockets, making it one of the most versatile and effective aircraft of its time.
• Depth: At 38m.
• Position: It lies upside down on a sandy seabed.

Dive Highlights:

• Accessibility: The wreck lies 900m offshore from St. Julian’s Point, Sliema. This is a boat dive due to its offshore location.
• Wreck Features: The wings and main fuselage are relatively intact, preserving the aircraft’s distinctive shape.The undercarriage frames with shredded tires protrude behind the radial engines. The port side propeller is still attached, while the starboard propeller is missing, likely lost on impact.
• Marine Life: Schools of damselfish, cardinalfish, and wrasses are commonly seen swimming around the wreckage, while scorpionfish and moray eels hide among the aircraft’s remains. Octopuses and cuttlefish are often spotted camouflaged against the seabed, while nudibranchs, fireworms, and sea urchins inhabit the surfaces of the wreck. Occasionally, barracudas, amberjacks, and groupers patrol the area, particularly in deeper sections. The surrounding sandy seabed may also reveal stingrays and burrowing sand eels, adding to the wreck’s biodiversity.

Why Visit?

For history enthusiasts and deep wreck divers, the Bristol Beaufighter offers a rare glimpse into WWII aviation history. Its well preserved fuselage, recognizable wings, and visible propeller make it a fascinating dive site. The wreck’s historical significance, its role in the war, and its underwater transformation into a marine habitat make it a must dive site for advanced divers in Malta.