CHIOS REEFER - Gozo

The Chios Reefer, resting at 26 metres, is a proper Gozo classic, and we’d say it’s our favourite deep wreck on the island. It’s an impressive chunk of metal, 134 metres long, and lies on its port side, mostly intact, which is key. You can swim through the main cargo holds, which are surprisingly open and bright thanks to the deck having mostly collapsed. Light filters in, showing off the huge schools of damselfish that now call the holds home. We love just hovering in the middle of a hold, watching them swirl around you. The engine room is accessible for those with the right training, a tighter squeeze but worth it for the sense of history. Look out for the resident moray eels tucked into crevices, their heads poking out with that perpetually grumpy expression. Because it’s been down since 1983, the wreck has been well and truly colonised; expect to see nudibranchs on the superstructure and scorpionfish camouflaged on the hull. It’s a dive that rewards multiple visits, revealing more of its secrets each time. Dive it early to avoid any crowds.

Location
Gozo, Malta, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
36.784817, 14.469400
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
26m

Best Time to Dive in Gozo

The warmest water temperatures in Gozo occur in August, averaging 27.7°C. The coolest conditions are in March at 15.3°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 16.4°C
  • February: 15.3°C
  • March: 15.3°C
  • April: 16.1°C
  • May: 18.5°C
  • June: 22.6°C
  • July: 26.3°C
  • August: 27.7°C
  • September: 27.1°C
  • October: 24.5°C
  • November: 22.0°C
  • December: 18.9°C

Nearby Dive Sites in Gozo

Nearest Dive Centres to CHIOS REEFER

Marine Life in Gozo

Home to 24 recorded species including 12 reef fish, 3 hard corals, 2 whales & dolphins, 2 seagrass & algae, 2 sharks & rays, 1 other.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for CHIOS REEFER

Based on average water temperature of 20.9°C, currents 9 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 CHIOS REEFER dive site?
The CHIOS REEFER dive site has a maximum depth of 26 meters. This makes it an accessible wreck dive for those with appropriate certification. Divers should be comfortable with dives to this depth.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at the CHIOS REEFER?
The CHIOS REEFER is a significant underwater feature, being a large motor vessel wreck measuring 134.1m x 16.8m. Divers can explore the structure of this non-dangerous wreck, which sank on August 4, 1983. While specific marine life isn't detailed in the provided context, wrecks often become artificial reefs attracting various species over time; you can learn more about general marine life in our wildlife database.
How challenging is the CHIOS REEFER dive site, and is it suitable for beginner divers?
The CHIOS REEFER dive site is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive. Due to its depth of 26 meters and intermediate rating, it is not typically suitable for beginner divers. Divers should possess the necessary experience and certifications for wreck diving at this depth.
What is the best time of year to dive the CHIOS REEFER for optimal conditions and visibility?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year to dive the CHIOS REEFER for optimal conditions and visibility. For general information on diving seasons in Gozo, please consult our When to Dive section.
What diving certifications are required to dive the CHIOS REEFER?
Given the CHIOS REEFER's intermediate difficulty and maximum depth of 26 meters, divers typically need at least an Advanced Open Water Diver certification or equivalent. This ensures divers have the necessary training and experience for deeper wreck dives. Always check with local dive centers for specific requirements.
What are the typical currents and water conditions like at the CHIOS REEFER dive site?
The provided data does not include specific information regarding the typical currents or water conditions at the CHIOS REEFER dive site. For details on local conditions, it is always best to consult with a local dive operator in Gozo.