Divers will have a new ship to explore after the scuttling of the Armed Forces of Malta’s old East German Patrol boat P-29, off Cirkewwa on Tuesday morning.

Nothing much is happening in Malta around the Santa Marija festivities and some might say it is a coincidence or providence to see that a military vessel has been deliberately sunk for leisure activities. Perhaps it is quite fitting in today’s spirit of peace and solidarity in Europe to unwittingly mark and commemorate Operation Pedestal in this manner. Many lives and ships were lost during this operation to bring much needed food and fuel to the people of Malta during its darkest hours in 1942.

People are sure to agree that the sinking of this military boat for diving purposes cements our common will to avert conflict and work together in peace to strive for mutual gain within the borders of the European Union.

The patrol boat, which is 52 metres in length, 7.2 metres wide and 16 metres high, was donated by the Armed Forces of Malta at the request of the Malta Tourism Authority.

The scuttling was approved by the Malta Environment and Planning Authority earlier this month.

The patrol boat was scuttled next to the tugboat Rozi, sunk in 1991 not far from a statue of Our Lady and a galleon anchor, off Cirkewwa. The site is well known for diving and the old patrol boat should add to its popularity with both locals and foreigners. Cirkewwa is also the site of the “Arch”, a remarkable geographical feature.

In addition to these boats, there are others in various areas,including the Maltese Falcon and old Gozo Channel ferries such as the Xlendi.

The scuttling operation involved the pumping of water into the boat, until it was sunk completely to a depth of 35 metres. The scuttling of the vessel attracted a number of people on boats to the scene to watch the event.

The operation was handled by the Armed Forces of Malta.