Diving atImperial Eagle and Statue of Christ (Malta)
Beneath the waters off Qawra Point, the Imperial Eagle ferry rests as a substantial artificial reef, accompanied by the striking Kristu tal-Bahhara. This site combines a maritime wreck with a monumental statue, creating a unique underwater landscape. Divers navigate between the vessel's sturdy structure and the serene, outstretched arms of the Christ statue, set against a natural amphitheatre of rock and an ancient anchor. It's an expansive layout for exploration.
As evening covers Imperial Eagle and Statue of Christ, the local air temperature is measured at 16.6°C. The current wave height at the surface is recorded at 0.64m. These late-day readings characterize the surface conditions for the night.
Dive Site Coordinates
35.9656, 14.4345
Key Dive Site Facts
Dive Site Overview
Once a bustling ferry and cargo vessel connecting Malta and Gozo, the Imperial Eagle embarked on its new role as a dive attraction when scuttled in July 1999 within a Marine Conservation Area. This 45 m (148 ft) long ship, with a beam of 10 m (33 ft), offers numerous entry and exit points for those qualified for penetration.
Divers approaching the site via a shotline will first encounter the wreck, which has its deck at a depth of 32 m (105 ft) and extends to a maximum depth of 45 m (148 ft). A short swim of approximately 30 m (100 ft) from the bow leads to the Kristu tal-Bahhara, a 3 m (10 ft) tall statue of Jesus Christ. This statue, originally placed near St. Paul’s Island in 1990, was later relocated in 2000 to its current position near the Imperial Eagle, resting at 35 m (115 ft).
An underwater valley connects these two distinct points of interest, also revealing a natural rock arch and a large anchor dating back to the 1600s, adding further historical depth to the dive.
Best Time to Dive
Planning a dive at Imperial Eagle and Kristu tal-Bahhara for optimal visibility often aligns with Malta’s calmer weather periods. The months from June through September consistently yield "Good" dive scores, benefiting from the lowest wave heights, averaging 0.64 to 0.83 m (2-3 ft), and minimal wind speeds around 17.9 to 18.9 km/h (11-12 mph). Rain is nearly absent during this summer span, often less than 1 mm (0.04 inches). Air temperatures are also at their warmest, ranging from 24.7 to 27.9°C (76-82°F), enhancing surface comfort. Spring and autumn, specifically March to May and October to November, also provide "Good" conditions, with air temperatures progressively warming from 15.8°C (60°F) in March to 23°C (73°F) in October, accompanied by reduced rainfall compared to winter. These periods generally offer clearer underwater conditions, making them suitable for exploring the wreck and statue.
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
A boat-only dive, it reveals a distinct depth profile, primarily catering to advanced divers. Descending the fixed shotline places divers directly onto the Imperial Eagle wreck, its main deck resting at 32 m (105 ft). From this position, the wreck descends to a maximum depth of 45 m (148 ft), necessitating appropriate deep diving certification. An underwater valley guides explorers from the wreck's bow toward the Kristu tal-Bahhara statue, found at 35 m (115 ft). Exploring both the impressive ship and the iconic statue during a single dive is feasible. Given the depth range, careful air management and decompression planning are essential for a safe excursion. Water temperatures, while not always consistently reported, generally align with regional patterns, typically ranging from 22-27°C (72-81°F) during warmer months.
Dive Difficulty & Safety Guidelines
Diving the Imperial Eagle and Kristu tal-Bahhara requires adherence to specific certifications due to the site's characteristics. Recreational divers aiming to reach the maximum depth of 45 m (148 ft) must hold a PADI Deep Diver certification or equivalent. For those intending to venture inside the Imperial Eagle wreck, a PADI Wreck Diver certification is mandatory, ensuring the necessary skills for navigating overhead environments. It's highly recommended to utilize Nitrox to manage no-decompression limits effectively, given the dive's depth and the desire to explore both the wreck and the statue. Always plan your dive thoroughly, considering gas consumption and bottom time for the dual points of interest.
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
Individual comfort in the water can vary significantly from diver to diver, even under the same conditions.
For most recreational dives, 5mm wetsuit should provide comfortable protection. 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 Imperial Eagle and Statue of Christ today should expect water temperatures around 18°C (65°F). Surface air temperatures are resting at 17°C (62°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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Currency
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Marine Life at Imperial Eagle and Statue of Christ
A diverse array of marine inhabitants thrives around the Imperial Eagle and its associated reef. Divers frequently spot nudibranchs, groupers, barracuda, and moray eels navigating the wreck's structure and adjacent reef sections. Abundant fish populations, along with corals and soft sponges, find shelter here. These creatures utilize the wreck’s crevices and natural rock formations, including the area around the 1600s anchor, as foraging grounds. It provides a robust habitat supporting considerable biodiversity despite its depth.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What certifications are required to dive this site?
You must be certified to a depth of 40 m (130 ft) or 45 m (148 ft), typically requiring a PADI Deep Diver certification. If you plan to penetrate the wreck, a PADI Wreck Diver certification is also mandatory.
What is Kristu tal-Bahhara?
Kristu tal-Bahhara is the Maltese name for the Statue of Jesus Christ, also known as Christ of the Sailors. It's a 3 m (10 ft) tall underwater statue located near the Imperial Eagle wreck.
How deep are the Imperial Eagle wreck and the statue?
Imperial Eagle's deck rests at 32 m (105 ft), with the wreck extending to a maximum depth of 45 m (148 ft). Kristu tal-Bahhara, the statue, is positioned at 35 m (115 ft).
Can I penetrate the Imperial Eagle wreck?
Yes, the Imperial Eagle provides ample entry and exit points for penetration. However, a PADI Wreck Diver certification or equivalent is mandatory to do so safely.
How far apart are the Imperial Eagle wreck and the Statue of Christ?
Kristu tal-Bahhara stands approximately 30 m (100 ft) from the Imperial Eagle wreck's bow. It's a short swim between the two main attractions.
Is this a shore or boat dive?
Access to this site is exclusively by boat. Operators typically drop a shotline between the wreck and the statue for your descent.
When was the Imperial Eagle scuttled?
The vessel was scuttled in July 1999. It became an artificial reef and dive attraction.
What marine life might I see here?
Divers commonly spot nudibranchs, groupers, barracuda, and moray eels. Reef sections here also host a variety of fish, corals, and soft sponges.
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