IRINI - Gozo

Irini sits in pretty shallow water, just 3 meters deep, which means it’s great for a long bottom time or for divers getting comfortable with wrecks. This old container ship went down in 1991, so it’s had plenty of time to settle and for marine life to move in. You can swim around the deck and superstructure, spotting damselfish darting in and out of the holds and perhaps a grumpy scorpionfish tucked away. The size of the wreck, nearly 80 meters long, makes it quite a substantial explore even in the shallows. We think it’s a solid choice for an easy dive, especially if you're keen on seeing how a wreck becomes part of the reef.

Location
Gozo, Malta, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
37.083668, 14.186833
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
3m

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 IRINI

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 IRINI

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 typical depth range for diving at the IRINI dive site?
The IRINI dive site, a fascinating wreck located off Gozo, has a reported depth of 3 meters. This makes it a relatively shallow dive, ideal for extended bottom times and suitable for various experience levels.
What kind of marine life and underwater topography can divers expect to see at IRINI?
The primary underwater topography at IRINI is the impressive container ship vessel itself, which was sunk on November 23, 1991. While specific marine life is not detailed in the provided data, wreck dives often attract a variety of reef fish and invertebrates over time, making the structure a vibrant artificial reef.
What is the difficulty level of the IRINI dive site, and is it suitable for beginners?
The IRINI dive site is classified as having an intermediate difficulty level. Therefore, it is generally not recommended for absolute beginners, who should seek out easier dive sites. Divers should possess appropriate experience and certification for wreck diving, especially considering its classification as a "Dangerous wreck".
When is the best time of year to dive at IRINI for the clearest water and calmest conditions?
Information regarding the best time of year for the clearest water and calmest conditions at the IRINI dive site is not available in the current data context. For general guidance on optimal diving seasons in Malta, please refer to our When to Dive section.
What diving certifications are required to dive at the IRINI dive site?
Given that the IRINI dive site is classified as an intermediate and "Dangerous wreck" dive, divers should hold at least an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent. Specialized wreck diving certifications are highly recommended due to its nature as a container ship vessel and its classification.
Are there strong currents or other challenging conditions at the IRINI dive site?
While the provided data does not explicitly detail strong currents at the IRINI dive site, its classification as a "Dangerous wreck" and an intermediate difficulty level suggests potential challenging conditions. Divers should always consult local dive operators for the most current site conditions and any specific hazards before diving.