A tragic diving incident occurred on March 26, 2024, at the Rożi wreck dive site near Ċirkewwa, Malta.
The incident unfolded when a group of divers signaled distress around 1:20 pm due to the challenging conditions. High winds and rough seas made exiting the water problematic for the divers. A large-scale search and rescue operation was launched by the Armed Forces of Malta in response.
While 17 divers were successfully rescued, the Dutch man was one of four who managed to reach the shore. Unfortunately, despite being rushed to Mater Dei Hospital, he was pronounced dead upon arrival. The status of the other three divers taken to the hospital is unreported but was described as not critical.
Local authorities are currently investigating the cause of the incident. A Magisterial Inquiry has also been opened to determine the full picture of the events.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of checking weather conditions before diving and adhering to safety protocols, especially when diving in potentially hazardous environments.
Despite this tragic event, Malta remains a popular diving destination due to its crystal-clear waters, abundant marine life, and numerous wreck dives. Some of the most sought-after dives include the wrecks of the HMS Maori and MV Xlendi, as well as the underwater caverns of Blue Grotto and Inland Sea. Numerous reputable dive centers operate across the Maltese Islands, catering to divers of all experience levels and offering a variety of diving packages and courses.
