LE POLYNESIAN - Comino

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.

Location
Comino, Malta, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
35.857666, 14.605714
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
59m

Marine Protected Area: Irdumijiet Ta\' Madwar Il-Kosta mill-Ponta tal-Miġnuna sal-Bajja ta\' San Tumas f\' Wied il-Għajn

Best Time to Dive in Comino

The warmest water temperatures in Comino occur in August, averaging 28.1°C. The coolest conditions are in March at 15.3°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 16.4°C
  • February: 15.5°C
  • March: 15.3°C
  • April: 16.2°C
  • May: 18.7°C
  • June: 22.9°C
  • July: 26.9°C
  • August: 28.1°C
  • September: 27.3°C
  • October: 24.9°C
  • November: 22.2°C
  • December: 19.3°C

Nearby Dive Sites in Comino

Nearest Dive Centres to LE POLYNESIAN

Marine Life in Comino

Home to 24 recorded species including 12 reef fish, 4 sharks & rays, 2 whales & dolphins, 2 seagrass & algae, 2 hard corals, 1 other.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for LE POLYNESIAN

Based on average water temperature of 21.1°C, currents 2 cm/s.

  • Wetsuit (3-5mm) - comfortable for 21°C water
  • Mask - essential for every dive
  • Fins
  • BCD - buoyancy compensator
  • Regulator - your most safety-critical piece of gear
  • Dive Computer - tracks depth, time, and NDL
  • Surface Marker Buoy (SMB) - essential for boat pickups
  • Dive Torch - useful for crevices and colour at depth
  • Underwater Camera - capture your diving memories

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the maximum depth of the Le Polynesian wreck and its highest point?
The Le Polynesian wreck reaches a maximum depth of 59 meters. While the highest point of the wreck is not specified in the provided data, divers can expect to explore a significant deep-water site.
What notable features and marine life can divers expect to see on the Le Polynesian wreck?
Divers exploring the Le Polynesian wreck will encounter the impressive remains of a 147m x 15m liner vessel, built in 1890 and sunk in 1918. Key features include its twelve boilers, twin funnel, and the triple expansion engine, offering a fascinating glimpse into early 20th-century maritime engineering. Specific marine life details are not provided in the current data, but wrecks often attract diverse ecosystems; for general information, visit our wildlife database.
How difficult is the Le Polynesian dive, and is it suitable for recreational divers?
The Le Polynesian dive is classified as intermediate difficulty. Given its maximum depth of 59 meters, it is generally beyond the limits for standard recreational divers and requires advanced technical diving certifications and specialized equipment.
What is the best time of year to dive the Le Polynesian wreck in Malta?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year to dive the Le Polynesian wreck. For general information on optimal diving seasons in Malta, please consult our When to Dive resource.
What specific diver certifications and permits are required to dive Le Polynesian?
While the provided data does not explicitly list required certifications or permits for the Le Polynesian, its intermediate difficulty and 59-meter depth strongly suggest advanced technical diving certifications are necessary. Divers should always check local regulations for Malta before planning their dive.
What are the typical current and visibility conditions at the Le Polynesian dive site?
The provided data does not include specific information regarding the typical current or visibility conditions at the Le Polynesian dive site. Divers should consult local dive operators for up-to-date conditions before planning their visit.