MV Karwela

MV Karwela, Xatt l-Ahmar, Gozo, Malta

Depth: 30m (avg), 45m (max) 

Level: Deep and Wreck

Overview:

MV Karwela is one of three intriguing wrecks located offshore from Xatt l-Ahmar on the south-eastern coast of Gozo. Formerly a passenger ferry for Captain Morgan Cruises operating around the Grand Harbour, she was scuttled in August 2006 along with MV Cominoland to create an artificial reef and a premier scuba diving attraction. 

History & Background:

• Service History: Built in West Germany by Jos L. Meyer in 1957, MV Karwela was originally launched as M/S Frisia II. Renamed MV Nordpaloma in 1977, she arrived in Malta in 1986 and was rechristened MV Karwela, serving as a tourist ferry until her decommissioning in 2002.
• Scuttling: Scuttled by the Gozo Tourism Association on 12th August 2006, MV Karwela was thoroughly prepared for diving hazardous materials were removed, and buoyancy tanks were used during the scuttling to ensure she settled upright. Shortly after sinking, a Volkswagen Beetle was deliberately placed on her starboard deck by local divers, though little remains of this car wreck today.

Wreck Details:

• Dimensions: Approximately 50m in length.
• Depth: The top deck, featuring the captains cabin, begins at a depth of 30m, her bow lies at 39m, while her stern rests at 41m.
• Position: The wreck sits perfectly upright on a sandy bottom.

Dive Highlights:

• Accessibility: The wreck is usually dived from the shore, but can be done by boat as well. Karwela's bow is approximately 80 m south from the dive’s entry point and about 40 m from the drop-off. She is the middle one of the three wrecks in Xatt l-Ahmar, between Cominoland, which lies about 60m east, and Xlendi about 60m west of Karwela.
• Wreck Features: The wreck features solid structure, open corridors, and multiple decks. Its iconic central staircase is a highlight, making it a favorite for underwater photography.
• Marine Life: Schools of damselfish, cardinalfish, rainbow wrasse, and breams are commonly seen hovering around the wreck, while moray eels and scorpionfish hide in its crevices. Octopuses and cuttlefish are frequently spotted along the decks, using their camouflage to blend into the surroundings. The upper structure and railings are often covered in soft corals, red sponges, and fireworms, adding color to the wreck. Occasional visits from barracudas and amberjacks make for exciting encounters, while the sandy seabed surrounding the wreck may reveal stingrays, starfish, and sea urchins. 

Why Visit?

MV Karwela stands out for her rich maritime history, well-maintained structure, and abundant exploration opportunities. Her accessible location among Gozo’s wrecks, combined with the impressive modifications for safe penetration, make her an essential dive site for those seeking a challenging and historically significant underwater adventure.