Diving at Comino Island - P31 Patrol Boat (Malta)
Against the clear waters off Comino Island, the P31 Patrol Boat wreck presents a striking underwater landscape. This former German Kondor-class minesweeper, later serving Malta's Maritime Squadron, rests largely upright on a sandy bottom. As the only significant wreck around Comino, it draws divers of varying experience levels. Its presence creates an artificial reef, adding structure and habitat to the otherwise open seabed. This site is a distinct feature in the Maltese diving scene, easily accessible by boat.
As evening covers Comino Island - P31 Patrol Boat, the local air temperature is measured at 30°C. The current wave height at the surface is recorded at 0.1 m. These late-day readings characterize the surface conditions for the night.
Dive Site Location & Key Facts
Dive Site Overview
Descending onto the P31 Patrol Boat reveals a vessel deliberately scuttled in 2009, specifically to become an artificial reef and a diving attraction. This 52 m (170 ft) long and 7 m (23 ft) wide wreck, weighing around 360 tons, now lies on white sand, exhibiting a slight list to its portside.
Its top structures are visible as shallow as 7 m (23 ft), making the initial approach comfortable for many. The bow settles at a maximum depth of 21 m (69 ft), while the stern sits shallower, around 18 meters, having shifted into the sand during storms.
Divers find this site suitable for various certifications, from Open Water training dives around the exterior to more advanced penetration explorations. It's a popular boat dive for exploring purposeful wreck creation and its subsequent marine life integration.
Conditions are Excellent
07:00 - 14:00
Optimal conditions expected
Current conditions near Comino Island - P31 Patrol Boat show 30° air, 30° sea temperature, 0.1 m waves, and 9 km/h wind. Forecast data is refreshed regularly to ensure accuracy.
Best Time to Dive
Optimal diving conditions at the P31 wreck typically align with the warmer months, from May through October, when dive scores are consistently rated 'Good'. During this period, average air temperatures range from 19°C (66°F) in May to 26.5°C (80°F) in August, creating comfortable surface conditions. Wave heights generally decrease to below 1.1 meters, with June to September seeing the calmest waters, averaging 0.7-0.9 meters. Rainfall is minimal, often less than 1.2 mm monthly, ensuring clear skies. Conversely, winter and early spring months, from November to April, bring 'Moderate' dive scores due to cooler air temperatures, higher winds peaking around 39 km/h (24 mph) in January, and increased wave activity.
PEAK SEASON SCORE
Scores combine air & water temps, waves, wind & rainfall for overall conditions.
BEST MONTHS TO DIVE
Monthly records compiled from satellite and marine observation nodes over the last 3 years. Data provided by Open-Meteo and MET Norway.
Dive Experience & Conditions
Approaching the P31 wreck, divers are often greeted by excellent visibility, commonly ranging from 20 to 30 m (65 to 98 ft), creating a clear view of the vessel. The site generally features calm waters, which contribute to its suitability for divers across various experience levels. Currents are typically mild to moderate, allowing for relaxed exploration around and within the wreck's structure. Descending, you'll find the main deck at accessible recreational depths, with the highest point of the wreck just 7 meters below the surface. Navigating its exterior is straightforward, while the interior offers intriguing, safe-to-penetrate sections for appropriately certified divers.
Dive Difficulty & Safety Guidelines
Ensuring a safe dive at the P31 wreck primarily involves understanding its structure and your personal certification limits. The wreck was deliberately prepared for diving, with its environment made safe before scuttling. While Open Water Diver certification is adequate for exploring the exterior, interior penetration should only be attempted by those with specific wreck diving training.
Navigating confined spaces requires advanced skills and equipment. Always dive with a reputable center, ensure your gear is well-maintained, and adhere to standard recreational diving no-decompression limits. Paying attention to your buoyancy helps preserve the wreck and its developing marine ecosystem.
Recommended Equipment
Overhead / entanglement risk. Wreck penetration requires proper training.
- Dive Computer
- Primary & Backup Lights
- Wreck Reel
- Cutting Tool
This gear list is based on verified equipment signals for Comino Island - P31 Patrol Boat, Malta. Always confirm final gear choices with your dive operator, guide, or liveaboard.
Recommended Dive Suit
For divers planning standard recreational dives, dive skin or rash guard is usually a suitable option. Divers vary widely in how quickly they feel cold underwater.
The waters surrounding Comino Island - P31 Patrol Boat are currently maintaining temperatures close to 30°C (85°F). Surface air temperatures are resting at 30°C (86°F).
The forecast outlook suggests that temperatures will stay close to current levels.
Emergency & Medical Support
Essential information to help you plan your dive trip to Comino Island - P31 Patrol Boat.
Hyperbaric chambers are a critical part of dive safety infrastructure. Availability varies significantly by region, and not all dive areas have immediate access.
Before diving, it's recommended to:
- confirm nearest medical facilities
- check emergency procedures with local dive operators
- ensure dive insurance covers evacuation if required
Divers Alert Network
Diving emergency assistance available through DAN Europe.
+39 0642115685- 24/7 emergency hotline
- Diving medical assistance
- Evacuation coordination
Emergency contacts are provided for reference. Always verify local emergency services before diving.
Closest Listed Hyperbaric Chambers
Showing listed hyperbaric chamber facilities within 200 km of this dive site.
Distances are approximate straight-line distances and may not reflect emergency travel time.
Gozo
24/7 ListedICU CapableVictoria, Malta•Approx. 8 km straight-line
Gozo
24/7 ListedICU CapableInformation is provided for reference and planning purposes only. Dive Navigator does not verify operational status, staffing, availability, or quality of care at listed facilities. In an emergency, contact local emergency services, DAN, your dive operator, or the chamber directly. Do not travel to a facility without calling ahead.
Hyperbaric Unit - Mater Dei Hospital
24/7 ListedICU CapableMsida, Malta•Approx. 20 km straight-line
Hyperbaric Unit - Mater Dei Hospital
24/7 ListedICU CapableInformation is provided for reference and planning purposes only. Dive Navigator does not verify operational status, staffing, availability, or quality of care at listed facilities. In an emergency, contact local emergency services, DAN, your dive operator, or the chamber directly. Do not travel to a facility without calling ahead.
Azienda Ospedaliera per l' Emergenza Cannizzaro
24/7 ListedICU CapableCatania, Italy•Approx. 183 km straight-line
Azienda Ospedaliera per l' Emergenza Cannizzaro
24/7 ListedICU CapableInformation is provided for reference and planning purposes only. Dive Navigator does not verify operational status, staffing, availability, or quality of care at listed facilities. In an emergency, contact local emergency services, DAN, your dive operator, or the chamber directly. Do not travel to a facility without calling ahead.
Marine Life at Comino Island - P31 Patrol Boat
Observing the P31, you'll notice how quickly life colonizes artificial structures. Despite its recent sinking, the wreck functions as a growing artificial reef, attracting a varied marine life population.
The exposed metal surfaces and sheltered compartments provide ideal microhabitats. Divers often spot schools of fish utilizing the wreck for shelter, while various invertebrates and smaller critters find refuge along its hull.
It's a dynamic environment, showcasing the early stages of ecosystem development on a sunken vessel.
Dive Sites Near Comino Island - P31 Patrol Boat
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Dive Centers Near Comino Island - P31 Patrol Boat
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Nearest Airports
Nearest airports to help plan travel to this dive area.
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Search Flights on ExpediaFrequently Asked Questions
What is the P31 wreck's history?
The P31 was a former German Kondor-class minesweeper before serving as a patrol boat for the Maltese Armed Forces. It was intentionally scuttled in 2009 off Comino Island to create an artificial reef and a diving attraction.
How deep is the P31 wreck?
The P31 wreck rests on a sandy bottom. Its deepest point, at the bow, reaches approximately 21 meters, while the stern is shallower, around 18 meters. Divers will find the highest parts of the wreck accessible just 7 meters below the surface.
Is the P31 wreck suitable for beginner divers?
Yes, its shallow depth and usually calm waters make the P31 an ideal site for beginner divers. Open Water Diver certification is sufficient for exploring the exterior of the wreck.
Can advanced divers penetrate the P31 wreck?
The wreck has wide openings and access points, making penetration possible for appropriately trained divers. A Wreck Diver certification is recommended for those wishing to explore the interior safely.
What is the visibility like at the P31 wreck?
Visibility is typically excellent at the P31, often ranging from 20 to 30 meters. This allows for clear views of the wreck and surrounding marine life.
How do I get to the P31 wreck?
Access to the P31 wreck is exclusively by boat. Dive centers operating from Malta or Gozo regularly arrange guided trips to this popular site.
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Conditions are Excellent
07:00 - 14:00
Optimal conditions expected
Current conditions near Comino Island - P31 Patrol Boat show 30° air, 30° sea temperature, 0.1 m waves, and 9 km/h wind. Forecast data is refreshed regularly to ensure accuracy.