Explore the MV Karwela

Perhaps one of the most eerily mesmerising attractions of this shipwreck are the steel stairs leading to the lower deck. At the stern divers can see the rudder, propellers and windlasses used for docking and mooring the ship, while you may also visit the bridge and the ship’s bow. One more popular attraction of the MV Karwela used to be the shell of a Volkswagen Beetle car which was sunk on the starboard shortly after the ship’s scuttling, however, nowadays, there isn’t much left of the car.

Here, you will also encounter a variety of underwater flora and fauna including spider crabs, groupers, nudibranchs and cow beams. The wreck itself is fully coated in algae and marine invertebrates, while sea firs populate the railings. Spiral tube worms called Spirographis spallanzani are also popular here, while you may also spot some seahorses.

An idyllic spot for both swimming and diving, Xatt l-Ahmar, which literally means Red Bay due to the reddish brown coloured soil of the terraced fields that fall towards the bay, this is one of those less discovered and secluded beaches, which can be seen from the Guardiola located at Fort Chambray.

Mainly frequented by locals who venture there for its crystal clear waters and beautiful coastal surroundings, the building situated right in the middle of the bay once served as a Marine Police station after it was built in 1886. The bay is particularly popular when the north and north east winds render most other swimming sports unsuitable, whereas the gentle slopes are perfect for an easy entry and exit into and from the water.

Once you’re done exploring the shipwreck, you may want to consider visiting the village of Ghajnsielem. Brimming with attractions, the place is mainly known for the Lourdes Chapel with its sharp steeple and underlying niche of Our Lady of Lourdes, as well as St. Anthony’s Church or the old parish church, however, you can also dive right into Maltese history by marvelling at fortresses like Fort Chambray, Mgarr Ix-Xini Tower and the Fougasse, a large well dug close to the shoreline.