The wreck of MT Hephaestus, which was sunk off the coast of the island of Gozo in 2022, is a unique attraction for divers, especially advanced and technical ones. The wreck was sunk in a place called Red Bay and Wreck Point, in the company of three other wrecks that had already been lying there. What distinguishes the MT Hephaestus wreck from other wrecks in the area is the fact that it stands perfectly on its keel, which gives an amazing visual effect when approaching it.

Characteristics of the MT Hephaestus wreck

MT Hephaestus is a tanker about 60 meters long, which rests on a gently sloping bottom. The stern is at 47 meters, the bow deck at 35 meters, while the superstructure is at a depth of about 28 meters. The wreck has been carefully prepared for divers – it has been cleaned of dangerous elements and all obstacles that could pose a threat during exploration have been removed. In order to facilitate access for divers and shorten the route to the spacious engine room, where you can admire the large engine and other equipment, a special opening measuring about 3×4 meters was made on the starboard side.

Holes have been made in some of the tanker’s tanks, allowing passage between them, which makes the exploration of the wreck even more attractive and dynamic. At the stern, typical of a tanker, one can see the remains of the winches for lowering the lifeboats, which are some of the more interesting elements of the structure. The “social” part of the wreck consists of several small rooms with narrow passages and stairs, which pose an additional challenge for divers equipped with twin-cylinder or sidemount sets. Dive planning in this part requires special attention, especially in the context of calculating the gas needed for free exploration.

The ship’s superstructure has been completely emptied of its equipment, allowing divers to pass freely through doors and windows, and visibility of often 30 to 50 metres allows for full admiration of the impressive structure of the wreck.

Adventure with fauna and flora at the wreck of MT Hephaestus

Although MT Hephaestus is a relatively new wreck, meaning it hasn’t yet had time to become covered in a rich layer of algae or other marine life, nature adapts very quickly. In just a few years since it sank, the wreck has become home to local fauna, including many species of fish. Moray eels can be found hiding in various crevices on the wreck, as well as really large starfish, which give it a special charm.

Due to the natural adaptation of the fish, diving around the wreck offers close encounters with local species, which enriches the experience. There are also predatory species such as tuna that prey on smaller fish, creating a dynamic spectacle for divers. The flora on the bottom near the wreck includes tall sea grasses between large stones, which provide shelter for many small organisms.

Diving route – what is worth seeing?

Diving the wreck of MT Hephaestus usually begins in Red Bay, where you can comfortably descend into the water. After about 20 minutes of swimming at a depth of about 10 meters, you reach the wreck itself. The view that greets divers is the majestic bow with anchor windlasses and other structural elements. Just behind the bow is a small room that you can swim into.

The exploration of the wreck can be continued along the tanks. There are two main routes: the first is along the gangway running through the center of the ship, and the second is through the tanks, where large holes have been made to allow for swimming. When planning this route, it is worth remembering the depth, length of the ship and gas consumption so that the dive is safe.

The most intriguing part of the wreck is the superstructure, especially the engine room. If you sail to the left, you can go down next to the ship, where a large opening is made in the side leading to the engine room. While exploring it, divers can see numerous devices and the engine that once powered a tanker. After swimming around the engine room, you can continue diving along the wreck, reaching the stern, where you can always find lots of fish, which gives this place a unique atmosphere. The ship’s name is still visible on the stern, adding to its historic character.

After rounding the stern, it is worth heading back towards the superstructure and the bridge, which – due to the ship’s purpose as a tanker – is quite high up. You can easily swim around it in preparation for the return.

End of dive and decompression

The view from above of the wreck of the MT Hephaestus is incredible – the structure of the wreck and the fish around it create a spectacular image. Returning along the wreck allows divers to take another look at its monumentality.

Then, you can decompress safely near a wall, admiring schools of fish and watching tunas hunting smaller creatures, which is an additional attraction during the stop. The bottom in this area, with its tall grass and large stones, is also full of life, which makes the time spent decompressing pass quickly and pleasantly. The diving conditions in this area are favorable – the currents are rare, which eliminates the need to fight them, and visibility is usually 30-50 meters. Sometimes, divers can see the entire wreck from the bow to the superstructure, which adds to the mysticism of this adventure.

Recreational diving and an alternative approach to the wreck

Although MT Hephaestus is primarily recommended for decompression and technical divers, recreational diving is also possible. To facilitate access to the wreck, a buoy has been placed near it. Divers can swim to the buoy on the surface and then descend along a chain to the bow of the wreck. From there, they can continue diving within the no-decompression limits, either surfacing back at the buoy or returning at a shallow depth towards Red Bay.