MALAKOFF - Balearic Islands

The Malakoff, a substantial steamship, rests upright at 29 metres, surprisingly intact for a vessel sunk way back in 1929. We love how her colossal size immediately impresses you. That 109-metre length means you’ll need more than one dive to truly appreciate her scale, though we think the bow section makes a fantastic first exploration, especially with the morning light filtering down. Her hold, once carrying cargo from Antwerp to Madagascar, is now open to qualified divers. Inside, the play of light and shadow is mesmerizing, and we’ve often found conger eels peering out from the deeper recesses. Schools of damselfish shimmer around the superstructure, and the occasional stingray cruises past the deck plates. Be mindful of potential siltouts inside the wreck; good buoyancy is key here. It’s a dive for those who appreciate history and don't mind a deeper profile, offering a genuine sense of discovery as you navigate her corridors and decks.

Location
Balearic Islands, Spain, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
39.894670, 4.054167
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
29m

Marine Protected Area: De cala Llucalari a Cales Coves

Best Time to Dive in Balearic Islands

The warmest water temperatures in Balearic Islands occur in August, averaging 27.4°C. The coolest conditions are in February at 14.8°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 15.3°C
  • February: 14.8°C
  • March: 15.2°C
  • April: 16.4°C
  • May: 19.3°C
  • June: 22.5°C
  • July: 26.2°C
  • August: 27.4°C
  • September: 25.9°C
  • October: 23.4°C
  • November: 19.6°C
  • December: 16.5°C

Nearby Dive Sites in Balearic Islands

Nearest Dive Centres to MALAKOFF

Marine Life in Balearic Islands

Home to 150 recorded species including 110 reef fish, 11 octopus & squid, 11 sharks & rays, 5 whales & dolphins, 4 crabs & lobsters, 3 other.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for MALAKOFF

Based on average water temperature of 20.2°C, currents 12 cm/s.

  • Wetsuit (3-5mm) - comfortable for 20°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

How deep is the Malakoff dive site?
The Malakoff dive site has a maximum depth of 29 meters. This makes it an accessible wreck dive for appropriately certified recreational divers.
What kind of marine life and wreck features can I expect to see when diving the Malakoff?
The Malakoff is a fascinating steam ship vessel, built in 1903 and sunk in 1929. Divers can explore its impressive dimensions of 109.7m x 15.1m, including features like its single boiler and triple expansion engine. While specific marine life details are not provided, wrecks often become artificial reefs, attracting various species over time.
How challenging is the Malakoff wreck dive for recreational divers?
The Malakoff wreck dive is classified as intermediate difficulty for recreational divers. It is also noted as a "Dangerous wreck," indicating that divers should approach it with caution and appropriate training.
What is the best time of year to dive the Malakoff wreck?
Specific information regarding the best time of year to dive the Malakoff wreck is not provided in our current data. We recommend checking local dive centers in the Balearic Islands for up-to-date seasonal conditions and optimal diving periods. For general guidance on dive planning, you can visit our When to Dive section.
What dive certifications are required to dive the Malakoff wreck?
Given the Malakoff's depth of 29 meters and its intermediate difficulty rating, divers would typically need at least an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent. This ensures you have the necessary training and experience for deeper wreck dives. Always consult with a local dive operator in the Balearic Islands to confirm specific requirements.
What are the typical currents and visibility like at the Malakoff dive site?
Our current data does not provide specific details on the typical currents or visibility conditions at the Malakoff dive site. It is always best to consult with local dive operators in the Balearic Islands for the most current information before planning your dive.