HMS Nasturtium

HMS Nasturtium wreck

The HMS Nasturtium wreck, located near Malta, offers a fascinating glimpse into naval history and is a significant site for technical divers.

HMS Nasturtium, a British sloop-of-war built in 1915, was primarily used for minesweeping. On April 27, 1916, she struck a mine outside the Grand Harbour and sank. The wreck lies at a depth of approximately 68 meters, with an average depth around 65 meters. This dive site is only accessible by boat and is recommended for technical divers due to its depth.

The Nasturtium was one of the 36 minesweeping Arabis-class sloops, built by A McMillan & Sons, of Dumbarton, Scotland. The ship had an overall length of 81.6m and a beam of 10.2m, with a crew capacity of 79 men. Despite its role in clearing mines, the Nasturtium ironically became a victim to one, leading to its sinking.

The wreck is located approximately 10km from Valetta Harbour and is now managed by Heritage Malta. As of May 1, 2019, diving at this site requires a special permit. The site’s popularity is low, making it a less crowded dive spot, ideal for those looking for a unique and less-traveled underwater exploration.

The HMS Nasturtium wreck is covered with colorful marine growth, and the location is quite far offshore, adding to the adventure of visiting this historical site. However, the wreck’s depth and the delicate marine flora around it require divers to be cautious and respectful.

In summary, the HMS Nasturtium offers an extraordinary dive experience for those skilled in technical diving. It provides an opportunity to explore a piece of World War I history and to witness how nature has reclaimed this once formidable minesweeper