Situated just off the Qawra coast in St. Paul’s Bay, the Imperial Eagle wreck and the nearby Statue of Christ are among Malta’s most popular and recognisable dive attractions. Combining history, marine life, and unique underwater scenery, this dive site offers an unforgettable experience for both local and visiting divers.

The Imperial Eagle was originally a passenger ferry operating between Malta and Gozo during the 1960s and 1970s. After years of service, the vessel was intentionally scuttled in 1999 to create an artificial reef and diving attraction. Today, the wreck rests upright on a sandy seabed at a depth of around 42 metres, making it most suitable for experienced and extended range divers. The ship remains largely intact, with divers able to explore sections of the deck, wheelhouse, and surrounding structure. Covered in marine growth and surrounded by schools of fish, the wreck has become a thriving underwater ecosystem.

One of the highlights of the dive is the nearby Statue of Christ, often referred to as the Kristu tal-Baħar. The bronze statue, standing over three metres tall, was originally placed near St. Paul’s Islands in 1990 to commemorate Pope John Paul II’s visit to Malta. In 2000, it was relocated to the seabed near the Imperial Eagle to protect it from fishing activity and provide easier access for divers. The statue now rests peacefully at approximately 35 metres depth, with its outstretched arms creating one of Malta’s most iconic underwater sights. There is also an amazing large arch closeby the wreck at around 38 meters which is quite impressive. You can pass under this arch to go to and/or from the wreck to the statue. One must pay careful attention to bottom time and deco limits as it’s very easily to get distracted and narked…

The combination of the wreck and the statue make this dive site particularly special. Divers can explore the historical remains of the Imperial Eagle before swimming across the sandy seabed to encounter the dramatic Statue of Christ emerging from the blue water. Large schools of barracuda, sea bream, octopus, moray eels, and amberjack are commonly seen in the area, adding even more life to the experience.

With excellent visibility, fascinating history, and unique underwater landmarks, the Imperial Eagle and Statue of Christ dive site remains one of Malta’s true underwater treasures.