HMS Maori (F24)

HMS "Maori" (L-24/F-24/G-24) was a Tribal-class destroyer laid down by the Fairfield Shipbuilding and Engineering Company, Limited, at Govan in Scotland on 6 June 1936, launched on 2 September 1937 ["The Times (London)", Friday, 3 September 1937, p.6] by Mrs. W. J. Jordan and commissioned on 2 January 1939.

"Maori" served with the Mediterranean Fleet, was involved in the pursuit and destruction of the enemy German battleship "Bismarck" in May 1941, ["The Times (London)", Wednesday, 28 May 1941, p.4] and served with the 14th Destroyer Flotilla during the Battle of Cape Bon in December 1941. ["The Times (London)", Monday, 15 December 1941, p.3] "Maori", commanded by Commander R. E. Courage, RN, was attacked by enemy German aircraft and sank at her moorings in the Malta Grand Harbour on 12 February 1942 with the loss of one of her crew. She was raised and scuttled off Malta on 15 July 1945.

Located a few hundred metres from the shore from Valletta, HMS Maori is now a popular dive site. She lies in white sand at a depth of 16m. Much of the bridge and superstructure are still extant, including the front gun base. Much marine life can be found on the wreck.

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