Diving atCS Levant II (Malta)
Approaching CS Levant II involves navigating Malta's often-busy Grand Harbour approaches, making conditions a primary consideration for this deep wreck dive. Lying about 1.5 km (0.9 miles) off the Grand Harbour entrance, this historic cable layer demands meticulous planning. Currents can be variable, impacting the ascent and descent, while average visibility often sits around 20 m (65 ft), though it can range from 10-40 m (33-130 ft). This challenging site is exclusively accessible by boat, suitable only for technical divers.
As evening covers CS Levant II, the local air temperature is measured at 14.1°C. The current wave height at the surface is recorded at 0.7m. These late-day readings characterize the surface conditions for the night.
Dive Site Coordinates
35.9089, 14.5387
Key Dive Site Facts
Dive Site Overview
Uniqueness of the CS Levant II lies in its history as a cable layer and its relatively intact state at a significant depth, offering an advanced wreck exploration for suitably qualified divers. Built as a trawler in 1904 by George Brown and Co., Greenock, it was later refitted for the Eastern Telegraph Company.
After WWI, it played a crucial role connecting Malta to Sicily, Libya, and Alexandria by cable. In 1952, deemed beyond repair, the vessel was slated for scuttling.
However, while being towed approximately three miles from Valletta, it began taking on water and sank prematurely, settling about 1.5 kilometers from the Grand Harbour entrance. Rediscovered around 1999, the wreck rests upright on a rocky bottom at a maximum depth of 59 m (194 ft).
Its approximate length is 42 meters (about 139 feet), with the cable drum still visible upfront. This deep wreck dive requires technical certification due to its depth and the potential for strong, variable currents.
Average visibility often reaches 20 meters, but can range considerably based on conditions. Site access is by boat, making logistical planning important.
Best Time to Dive
For divers seeking optimal conditions, planning a visit to CS Levant II between June and September is generally recommended. During these months, dive scores are consistently rated "Good" (8 out of 10), reflecting more favorable weather patterns. Air temperatures comfortably range from 24.9°C to 28.4°C (77-83°F), making surface intervals pleasant. Rainfall is minimal, often less than one millimeter, reducing the likelihood of runoff affecting coastal visibility. Wind speeds are also at their lowest, typically below 20 kilometers per hour, leading to calmer seas and lower wave heights, which are crucial for boat-accessed, deep wreck dives. However, extending into October and November can also provide "Good" diving experiences, with air temperatures still mild at 19.1°C to 22.9°C (66-73°F), though average rainfall and wave heights begin to increase. Divers should anticipate colder water temperatures at depth, which are not consistently reported but will be significantly lower than surface averages. Early spring, from April to May, also sees "Good" dive scores, with increasing air temperatures and decreasing wave heights, providing an earlier window for less crowded excursions.
Climate Historical Averages
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
Diving the CS Levant II is an experience reserved for very experienced technical divers. Entering the water, expect depths between 55 and 59 meters, making this a profile that demands advanced gas planning and decompression protocols. Visibility at the site generally averages 20 meters, though it can fluctuate significantly, sometimes reaching 40 meters or dropping to 10 meters depending on local currents and sediment. Access to the site is exclusively by boat. Navigating the depths, divers will find the wreck resting largely intact on a rocky bottom, presenting a formidable structure to explore. Currents can be variable, ranging from limited to strong, and may shift during the dive, requiring careful monitoring and robust finning techniques. Water temperatures at this depth will be considerably cooler than surface averages, often requiring thicker thermal protection. This isn't a site for casual exploration; it's a serious technical dive requiring precision and adherence to strict safety margins.
Dive Difficulty & Safety Guidelines
Approaching CS Levant II requires a high level of diver skill and specific certifications. Due to its depth, technical diving qualifications are mandatory. Divers must hold at least an Advanced Open Water certification and possess a minimum of 20 logged dives to be considered for this site. A critical safety consideration involves Grand Harbour's ship traffic; this dive is generally considered hazardous unless the harbor is closed to commercial vessels. Always coordinate with local dive operators who are familiar with these specific restrictions. Strong and variable currents are a consistent factor, necessitating advanced buoyancy control and trim. Medical clarification from a physician is required for any pre-existing conditions such as diabetes or asthma, or if taking prescribed medication. Planning multiple deco stops will be part of the dive profile. Ensure all equipment is meticulously checked and maintained for deep technical operations. This is not a site where shortcuts can be taken.
Recommended Equipment
No verified equipment items yet.
Verified equipment recommendations for this dive site are being reviewed and may be added as additional source checks are completed.
Recommended Dive Suit
Exposure protection is partly a personal preference.
5mm wetsuit typically provides a reliable level of thermal protection for dives here. A thermal robe or jacket is recommended between dives. Environmental models indicate a modest warming trend ahead. A warming trend is expected over the next few days.
Divers heading to CS Levant II today should expect water temperatures around 18°C (65°F). Surface air temperatures are resting at 14°C (57°F).
Conditions last reviewed: 18:00 using the latest environmental data.
Dive Logistics & Preparation
Hyperbaric Chamber
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Entry Requirements
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Marine Life at CS Levant II
Exploring the CS Levant II wreck, divers will first notice the structures themselves, which serve as an artificial reef, attracting various Mediterranean species. Life at this depth adapts to the cooler, darker environment. Expect to observe encrusting organisms, potentially some larger pelagic fish passing by the wreck's outline, and smaller bottom dwellers seeking shelter within the metal framework. While specific marine life sightings are not consistently reported for this particular deep wreck, similar sites in the region often host groupers, moray eels, and various invertebrates such as nudibranchs and crustaceans. Cable drum and other intact features provide surfaces for sessile life to colonize, making the wreck itself a living habitat.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What certification level is required for CS Levant II?
Technical diving certification is mandatory for CS Levant II due to its significant depth. Divers also need at least an Advanced Open Water certification and a minimum of 20 logged dives.
How deep is the CS Levant II wreck?
The wreck rests at a maximum depth of 59 meters, with shallower parts reaching 55 meters. Such deep profiles require advanced planning for technical diving.
What is the average visibility at this dive site?
Visibility at CS Levant II typically averages 20 meters. However, conditions can vary significantly, with reported visibility ranging from 10 to 40 meters.
Is CS Levant II accessible from shore?
No, CS Levant II is exclusively a boat dive. The site is located approximately 1.5 kilometers from the Grand Harbour entrance, requiring boat access for all dives.
Are there any specific hazards to be aware of?
A primary hazard is Grand Harbour ship traffic; the dive should only proceed when the harbor is closed to commercial vessels. Variable, sometimes strong, currents are also common at this site.
What is the historical significance of the CS Levant II?
The CS Levant II was a cable layer built in 1904, instrumental in maintaining communication lines between Malta, Sicily, Libya, and Alexandria after WWI. It sank prematurely in 1952 while being towed for scuttling.
What are the recommended months to dive CS Levant II?
The best time to dive is generally between June and September for calmer seas and higher air temperatures. April-May and October-November also offer good diving conditions, though with potentially cooler air and slightly increased chance of rain.
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