Diving atSS Margit / MV Odile (Malta)
Fragmented remains of the SS Margit / MV Odile, a compelling World War II wreck, rest on a silty bed in Kalkara Creek. Formerly a Panamanian steam passenger boat measuring approximately 100 m / 328 ft, it lies parallel to the shore at a maximum depth of 24 m / 79 ft. Explosives removed both the funnel and masts, creating a unique underwater landscape for exploration. Divers encounter a site deeply shaped by its wartime history, presenting a distinct profile on the seabed.
Evening condition tracking at SS Margit / MV Odile features an air temperature of 21°C. We have recorded wave heights measuring 0.5 m during this period. These figures outline the environmental parameters currently present.
Dive Site Location & Key Facts
Everything you need to know about this dive site.
Dive Site Overview
Diving the SS Margit / MV Odile offers an encounter with a significant World War II casualty in Kalkara Creek. Built in 1912, the Panamanian steam passenger vessel met its fate on April 19, 1941, during an air raid in Valletta's Grand Harbour.
Today, its considerably broken remains span approximately 100 m / 328 ft, listing to port and offering multiple points of interest. Divers explore these remnants on a silty bottom, typically reaching depths between 22-24 m / 72-79 ft. While visibility is often limited compared to open-sea sites, averaging around 10 m / 33 ft and varying from 5-20 m / 16-66 ft, the wreck's sheltered location provides consistent access, even during less favorable surface conditions.
Navigating around the wreckage reveals a distinct atmosphere. Entry into the ship is possible for very experienced, appropriately equipped divers with specialized training for overhead environments.
A minimum certification of BSAC Sports Diver, PADI Advanced Open Water, or equivalent is required to undertake this dive safely, ensuring preparedness for the unique harbor conditions and wreck environment.
SS Margit / MV Odile
Conditions are Excellent
Best Dive Window
07:00 - 14:00
Optimal conditions expected
Current conditions near SS Margit / MV Odile show 21° air, 25° sea temperature, 0.7 m waves, and 19 km/h wind. Forecast data is refreshed regularly to ensure accuracy.
Best Time to Dive
Optimizing a dive at SS Margit / MV Odile requires managing visibility, a characteristic that can be inconsistent in harbor environments. Calmer summer months, typically June through September, generally provide the most favorable surface conditions for diving. During this period, expect minimal rain, low wind speeds (around 18-20 km/h), and reduced wave heights (often below 1 m / 3 ft). Air temperatures are pleasantly warm, ranging from 24-28°C / 75-82°F. While specific water temperatures for the site aren't consistently reported, Malta's surrounding waters usually range from 22-27°C / 72-81°F in summer, suggesting comfortable underwater temperatures. Winter months, from December to March, conversely bring cooler air temperatures of 14-15°C / 57-59°F, alongside higher wind speeds and greater wave heights, potentially impacting the overall dive experience and surface comfort. Planning a visit during the summer season maximizes the chances of encountering optimal conditions.
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
Currents are generally absent around the SS Margit, simplifying navigation and contributing to a relaxed wreck dive experience. Resting on a fine silt and sand bottom in Kalkara Creek, the primary challenge for divers is the inherent lower visibility typical of a harbor environment. Conditions fluctuate, but visibility commonly ranges from 5-20 m / 16-66 ft, often settling around 10 m / 33 ft, which lends an atmospheric feel to the exploration. This area is well-sheltered from most adverse weather, offering a consistent dive opportunity even when other open-sea sites might be exposed to rougher conditions. Although broken, the wreck still presents a substantial 100 m / 328 ft structure to explore, with its distinct port-side list adding an interesting dynamic to its underwater profile. Exploring various sections reveals fragmented bulkheads and debris fields, providing cover for smaller marine life and requiring careful buoyancy control to avoid disturbing the silty bottom.
Dive Difficulty & Safety Guidelines
Diving the SS Margit involves specific challenges requiring careful consideration and thorough planning. Its location within an active harbor necessitates extreme vigilance for surface boat traffic; deploying a DSMB is a critical, non-optional safety measure upon ascent. Site visibility can be limited, and locating the wreck might prove difficult without prior local knowledge, especially for less experienced groups. Wreck penetration is exclusively recommended for very experienced divers, requiring appropriate equipment such as redundant air sources, dive lights, and specialized training for overhead environments. All divers should possess an Advanced Open Water or equivalent certification, ensuring they have the skills for this type of dive. Always dive with a reliable buddy and adhere strictly to dive plan limits to mitigate risks and ensure a safe return.
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 SS Margit / MV Odile, Malta. Always confirm final gear choices with your dive operator, guide, or liveaboard.
Recommended Dive Suit
Repeated dives during the same day can gradually reduce overall body warmth.
Environmental readings suggest that the waters surrounding SS Margit / MV Odile are about 25°C (76°F) at the moment. Surface air temperatures are resting at 21°C (70°F). Divers spending extended time underwater often rely on 3mm wetsuit for balanced warmth and flexibility. Surface intervals may feel cooler.
A warming trend is expected over the next few days. A warming trend is expected over the next few days.
Emergency & Medical Support
Essential information to help you plan your dive trip to SS Margit / MV Odile.
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.
Hyperbaric Unit - Mater Dei Hospital
24/7 ListedICU CapableMsida, Malta•Approx. 3 km straight-line
Hyperbaric Unit - Mater Dei Hospital
24/7 ListedICU CapableFacility Details
Information 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.
Gozo
24/7 ListedICU CapableVictoria, Malta•Approx. 30 km straight-line
Gozo
24/7 ListedICU CapableFacility Details
Information 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. 189 km straight-line
Azienda Ospedaliera per l' Emergenza Cannizzaro
24/7 ListedICU CapableFacility Details
Information 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 SS Margit / MV Odile
Approaching the SS Margit, divers' attention often turns to small marine life inhabiting the wreck's fragmented structures. Broken hull sections and scattered debris provide ample shelter, creating a habitat for various crabs and other invertebrates. Crustaceans are commonly observed scuttling amongst the metal, utilizing the wreck for protection and foraging opportunities. A silty bottom and the wreck itself support other small marine species, though specific populations aren't consistently reported. Keep an eye out for smaller fish, such as blennies and gobies, darting in and out of the wreckage, leveraging the artificial reef for refuge and feeding. Exploring the nooks and crannies often reveals hidden life.
Dive Sites Near SS Margit / MV Odile
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Dive Centers Near SS Margit / MV Odile
Working Hours
Today: Closed
Aida Freediving Malta
Lagoon Dive Center
Dive Systems Malta
Divewise Malta
Diveshack
Dive Site
Dive Deep Blue By Abc Diving
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 maximum depth of the SS Margit / MV Odile wreck?
The SS Margit / MV Odile wreck typically sits at a maximum depth of 24 m / 79 ft. Divers usually explore its main structures around 22 m / 72 ft on a silty seabed.
What is the visibility like at this dive site?
Visibility at the SS Margit / MV Odile varies significantly due to its harbor location. It can range from 5-20 m / 16-66 ft, with an average of around 10 m / 33 ft. Expect lower visibility compared to open-sea dive sites.
What certification is required to dive the SS Margit / MV Odile?
Divers need a minimum certification of BSAC Sports Diver, PADI Advanced Open Water Diver, or an equivalent. This ensures you have the necessary skills for a wreck dive at this depth and in potentially limited visibility.
Can divers penetrate the SS Margit / MV Odile wreck?
Wreck penetration is possible but is only recommended for very experienced wreck divers. These individuals must possess the correct training and specialized equipment for overhead environments.
What are the main hazards at the SS Margit / MV Odile dive site?
The primary hazards include active surface boat traffic, making a DSMB essential. Limited visibility can also pose navigation challenges, and the broken nature of the wreck requires caution to avoid entanglement or injury.
How long is the SS Margit / MV Odile wreck?
The SS Margit / MV Odile is approximately 100 m / 328 ft long. However, it is considerably broken up due to its sinking and subsequent removal of parts, so it doesn't present as a complete, intact vessel.
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SS Margit / MV Odile
Conditions are Excellent
Best Dive Window
07:00 - 14:00
Optimal conditions expected
Current conditions near SS Margit / MV Odile show 21° air, 25° sea temperature, 0.7 m waves, and 19 km/h wind. Forecast data is refreshed regularly to ensure accuracy.