HMS St. Angelo

HMS St. Angelo wreck

The HMS St. Angelo wreck in Malta provides an intriguing diving experience, particularly for those interested in World War II history and technical diving. The wreck is the remains of a vessel that originally served as a tug boat and later as a minesweeper during the war. On May 30, 1942, the HMS St. Angelo struck a mine and sank outside Valletta, resulting in the loss of four crew members.

The wreck, which lies about 1.5 km off the entrance to the Grand Harbour, is approximately 24 meters in length and sits upright on a sandy seabed at a depth of 54 meters. Due to its location in the maritime channel and the busy shipping traffic in and out of Valletta, diving at the HMS St. Angelo wreck is considered dangerous unless the harbour is closed. Diving here requires special attention and is suitable only for technical divers or very experienced divers.

The wreck’s depth and proximity to busy shipping lanes make it a challenging but rewarding dive site. Divers exploring the HMS St. Angelo can expect to see a well-preserved wreck with various features still identifiable. However, due to the technical nature of the dive and the potential hazards from shipping traffic, it is recommended that only divers with appropriate experience and qualifications attempt to visit this site.

Overall, the HMS St. Angelo wreck offers a unique glimpse into Malta’s rich maritime history, particularly its role during World War II. The site’s combination of historical significance and challenging diving conditions make it a noteworthy destination for skilled divers visiting the area