One of the dive sites we run here in Malta — here's the story behind it, the depth and access, and what it takes to dive it properly.
The Bristol Beaufighter was a twin-engine, two-seat heavy fighter of the Second World War, about 12.6m long with a 17.6m wingspan. On 17 March 1943, shortly after take-off, this aircraft suffered mechanical failure and was ditched in the sea; both the pilot and observer survived. The wreck lies inverted on sand about 900m off St Julian's/Sliema at around 38m, with much of it gradually being buried. The wings and main fuselage are still fairly intact, both undercarriage frames with shredded tyres sit behind the engines, and the port propeller remains attached. It has become quite broken up in recent years. A deep boat dive for experienced divers, it is one of several accessible WWII aircraft wrecks in Maltese waters.
The diving here suits divers at Decompression Procedures level. If you’re not there yet, these are the courses that get you there:
Already certified and just want to dive it? Come and explore it with me on open circuit or CCR — one relaxed dive a day, no rushing, as long in the water as you like.
Want to dive Bristol Beaufighter? Tell me your certification level and your dates, and I'll plan it with you. No pressure, no hard sell — just a good dive.