Exiles Sliema Malta Diving: Reef, Tug 2 Wreck and Marine Life
Dive Site Information
Site name:
Exiles Reef & Tug 2
Type of dive:
Shore dive, reef, wreck
Historical background:
The site is home to the Tug 2 wreck, a 30-metre tugboat built in Malta in 1975 and scuttled in 2013 to create an artificial reef. Originally placed on the sandy bottom, a strong storm in 2016 moved it against the reef.
Seabed type: Rocky with gullies, Posidonia oceanic seagrass meadows and wide sandy areas.
Depth:
From 5 meters (entry point) down to a maximum depth of 25 meters.
Suitable for experienced divers: PADI Open Water Diver or equivalent (for both the reef and the wreck).
Recommended time of year:
From May to November for the best sea and weather conditions, although it is dive able all year round with favorable south or south-west winds.
Average water temperature:
In summer around 26°C at the surface and 24°C at the bottom; in winter around 16°C at the surface and 15°C at the bottom.
Technical recommendations:
To fully enjoy the waters of Sliema, choosing the right thermal protection is essential and varies significantly depending on the season. During the summer months, a 3 mm or 5 mm wetsuit is usually sufficient for long explorations through the reef gullies, while in transitional seasons such as spring or autumn, a 7 mm wetsuit or semi-dry suit is recommended to maintain thermal comfort during decompression stops. Divers choosing to dive during the winter months will benefit from using a drysuit, especially for extended training sessions. The use of a dive torch is highly recommended not only for the fascinating night dives, where octopuses and cuttlefish become the main attraction, but also for revealing the natural colors hidden beneath overhangs and inside the structures of the Tug 2 wreck. Regarding breathing gas mixtures, the use of Nitrox provides a significant advantage at this site as it allows longer bottom times at the 20–22 meters depth of the wreck, increasing safety margins and reducing overall fatigue, especially when planning repetitive dives on the same day.
Would you like to discover the beauty of the underwater world in Sliema? Contact us now through the form to organize your next dive or diving course at Exiles!
FAQs ( Exiles Reef & Tug 2 )
Minimum Certification for Diving at Exiles Sliema | Open Water Divers
The site is perfect for divers holding an Open Water Diver certification, as the maximum depth of 25 meters and the easy access make it ideal for beginner divers or those wishing to complete a diving course.
Can You Reach the Tug 2 Wreck from Shore in Malta?
Yes, Tug 2 is one of the most famous shore dives in Malta; it is located approximately 250 meters from the coast and navigation is straightforward, making it a frequent destination for guided excursions organized by local diving centres.
Night Diving at Exiles Sliema: Marine Life You Can Spot
Absolutely, night dives at Exiles are spectacular for observing octopuses, cuttlefish, scorpionfish and various types of crustaceans that emerge after sunset among the rocks and Posidonia meadows.
Is Exiles Sliema Suitable for Freediving in Malta?
Certainly, the shallower area of the reef and the clarity of the water provide an excellent environment for freediving enthusiasts and for those wishing to practice descent exercises in a safe and life-rich setting.
Diving at Exiles Malta During Strong Northern Winds
In the case of strong northern winds, the sea conditions at Exiles can become very rough, making entry and exit from the water difficult; in these situations, dive centres usually move activities to more sheltered sites on the opposite side of the island.
Would you like to book your diving guide or learn about PADI course prices with Underwater Academy?
Follow us on our official social media
Ready to get serious? Turn your passion into a career as a PADI Professional. Choose your next PADI Pro course and take the next step.
