ROBERT ROWAN (POSSIBLY) - Gozo

The Robert Rowan, or what we think is the Robert Rowan, sits in about 12 meters of water, just off the coast of Gozo. This steamship met a dramatic end in 1943, blowing up after taking hits from bombs and artillery, and that history really defines the site. We’ve found scattered pieces of the hull and machinery spread across the seabed, giving it more of an archaeological feel than a classic intact wreck. You'll spend your time here exploring the debris field, looking for clues to the ship's past, while damselfish dart around the plates and octopus hide in crevices. It's an interesting dive for those who enjoy a bit of history and don't mind a treasure hunt vibe over a grand superstructure.

Location
Gozo, Malta, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
37.034000, 14.230833
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
12m

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 ROBERT ROWAN (POSSIBLY)

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 ROBERT ROWAN (POSSIBLY)

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 the Robert Rowan wreck?
The Robert Rowan wreck is found at a typical depth of 12 meters. This makes it a relatively shallow wreck, accessible to many divers with appropriate training.
What marine life and historical artifacts can divers expect to encounter at the Robert Rowan dive site?
Divers exploring the Robert Rowan wreck can expect to encounter the remains of this impressive steam ship, which measured 134.7m x 17.4m. While specific marine life is not detailed in our records for this site, wrecks typically attract a variety of local marine life. The wreck itself, sunk on July 12, 1943, is the primary historical artifact.
What is the difficulty level for diving the Robert Rowan wreck, and is it recommended for advanced divers only?
The Robert Rowan wreck is classified with an intermediate difficulty level. While not exclusively for advanced divers, its classification as a "Dangerous wreck" suggests that divers should possess appropriate experience and skills for wreck diving.
When is the optimal season or time of year to dive the Robert Rowan for the best conditions?
Our current data for the Robert Rowan wreck does not specify an optimal season or time of year for the best diving conditions. For general guidance on diving in Malta and Gozo, you might consult our When to Dive section for broader regional information.
Are there any specific certifications, like wreck diving or deep diving, required to explore the Robert Rowan?
While the Robert Rowan wreck is at a shallow depth of 12 meters, making deep diving certifications unnecessary, its classification as a "Dangerous wreck" and intermediate difficulty level suggest that a wreck diving certification or significant experience in wreck environments would be highly beneficial. Always ensure you have the appropriate equipment and training for the conditions.
What are the prevailing currents and average visibility conditions at the Robert Rowan dive site?
Our current data for the Robert Rowan dive site does not include specific information regarding prevailing currents or average visibility conditions. Divers should always check local conditions with a dive operator before planning their dive.