HMS Southwold
HMS Southwold, a British Hunt-class destroyer was launched in 1941. She was used for convoy escorts in the Mediterranean but served only for few months. On 24 March 1942, when she activated a land mine, she sustained structural damages caused by an explosion. She then was towed by a tug, but her hull suddenly split into two pieces and she sank. Now the two sections of the wreck lie at the depth of around 70m/230ft approximately 2.4km/1.5 mi of Marsaskala Bay. The largest piece, which is the bow of the wreck is about 40m/130ft long, and another part, 28m/91ft long, lies at the distance of about 300m/980ft from it. This dive can only be attempted by divers with deep-diving experience due to the extreme depth of this site.
When To Go Diving
Best conditions for scuba diving are from May to November, though diving is possible all year round. The hottest time during the summer is from mid-July to mid-September when the water temperature rise to 25-26C/77-79F.
What to see
While exploring the wreck, divers can see eagle rays, john dory, bonitos and flying gurnards that can be found closer to the sea bottom.