wreck

Log This Dive

LE POLYNESIAN

The Polynesian, a huge liner scuttled in 1918, is a deep, serious wreck dive that we reckon is one of Malta’s best. Lying upright at 59 metres, its sheer scale is what gets you. We’ve done this dive a few times now, and each time, dropping down that shot line, the hull just keeps going. You’re looking at 147 metres of history here. We love exploring the forward superstructure. The bridge area is largely collapsed, but you can still make out the outline, and the davits for the lifeboats are clearly visible, reaching out into the blue. Our favourite part is finning along the promenade deck, imagining what life was like on board. Visibility here is usually excellent, often 30 metres plus, making the whole wreck visible as a dark, imposing shape against the bright surface light. There isn't a huge amount of soft coral growth, but the hard structure provides a home for some impressive groupers. Look out for them lurking in the shadows of the deeper holds, and we've seen some enormous scorpionfish camouflaged on the decks. This isn't a dive for the inexperienced; it's deep and requires good gas planning and comfort with overhead environments if you plan on any penetration. But for those ready for it, the Polynesian is a phenomenal journey into a forgotten maritime past. It’s a true expedition dive.