Junkers Ju 88 (North) Wreck

Junkers Ju 88 (North) Wreck, Baħar iċ-Ċagħaq, Malta

Depth: 55m (avg), 55m (max) 

Level: Technical 

Overview:

The Junkers Ju 88 (North) wreck is a World War II German bomber, now resting upside down at 55 meters on a sandy seabed, approximately 3 km off Bahar-Ic-Caghaq, Malta. One of the most well preserved aircraft wrecks in Maltese waters, the Ju 88 was among the most versatile bombers of the war, used for high speed bombing, reconnaissance, and night fighter roles.

Discovered in 2009 and opened for divers in 2019, the wreck remains largely intact, though trawl nets have caused some external damage. The tail section lies approximately 50 meters from the main fuselage, likely having detached upon impact, adding to the mystery and intrigue of the site. As of today, the wreck is protected and managed by Heritage Malta.

History & Background:

• Service History: The Junkers Ju 88 was a versatile German bomber introduced in the late 1930s, featuring a twin-engine design and an all metal airframe. With a length of approximately 15 meters and a wingspan of about 20 meters, it was engineered for high speed, multi-role missions. During World War II, the Ju 88 was extensively deployed in the Mediterranean, conducting bombing operations over Malta that targeted British airfields, convoys, and military installations.
• Crash: Specific details about this particular aircraft are scarce. However, its relatively intact condition suggests a controlled water landing rather than destruction in mid-air. The tail section, located approximately 50 meters from the main wreck, likely detached upon impact with the sea. The minimal fragmentation indicates that the crew may have attempted a ditching after experiencing enemy fire or mechanical issues.

Wreck Details:

• Dimensions: The Junkers Ju 88 measures 15 meters in length, with a 20 meter wingspan.
• Depth: The wreck sits at 55 meters.
• Position: The aircraft lies upside down, providing a unique perspective of its landing gear, wing structure, and engine components.

Dive Highlights

• Accessibility: This is a boat access only dive due to its offshore location.
• Wreck Features: Trawl nets have caused some external damage, but the wing structures, engines, and fuselage remain identifiable. The tail section, which lies 50 meters from the main wreck, is in good condition, offering an additional exploration point. Divers can examine the inverted fuselage, giving a unique opportunity to observe its undercarriage and structural design.
• 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 technical divers with a passion for WWII aviation, the Junkers Ju 88 (North) wreck provides a rare and historically significant experience. Its intact fuselage, detached tail section, and unique upside down orientation offer valuable insight into one of the most iconic bombers of World War II. Combined with its limited access, conservation status, and thriving marine life, this dive is a must for wreck diving enthusiasts looking to explore Malta’s wartime aviation heritage.