Dive-site story
The Um El Faroud was a Libyan motor tanker that suffered an explosion in the Grand Harbour in 1995 and was later scuttled off the coast of Wied iz-Zurrieq as an artificial reef. Resting upright on the sandy seabed, the massive vessel split into two distinct sections after severe winter storms. Reaching the wreck requires a surface or underwater swim out from the narrow entry gully. Divers can explore extensive deck machinery, the cavernous bridge, and open engine room spaces, while the hull exterior is heavily colonized by encrusting sponges and algae.
Massive split hull offering distinct bow and stern exploration sections
Spacious superstructure and bridge area with easy swim-throughs
Schools of pelagic predators circling above the funnel and radar mast
Location
Use the map to plan with your operator and confirm the exact entry point on the day.
Seasonality
Calm seas and warmest water occur during summer and early autumn, while winter brings rough southerly swells.
Marine life
| Species | Likelihood | J | F | M | A | M | J | J | A | S | O | N | D |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mediterranean BarracudaSphyraena viridensis | Common | ||||||||||||
| Dusky GrouperEpinephelus marginatus | Common | ||||||||||||
| Common OctopusOctopus vulgaris | Common | ||||||||||||
| Mediterranean Moray EelMuraena helena | Common | ||||||||||||
| Black ScorpionfishScorpaena porcus | Common |
Marine forecast
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