Diving in Malta
Malta scuba diving is awesome! Its a Wreck Divers Dream
Diving in Malta is awesome because of its easy access, crystal clear water and buzzing dive community. We have experienced some of the best scuba diving in Malta, and so we share our underwater adventures of the Mediterranean with you to follow! Voted as the best diving in the world over numerous years by diver magazines, this paradise for divers offers top-notch diving experiences, whether you’re a beginner, an advanced diver or a seasoned pro. dive Malta for a diverse range of dive sites that promise to leave you in awe. Join us on a journey through the depths of this beautiful archipelago.
WHERE IS MALTA?
Malta may be small, but it’s absolutely packed with diving adventures waiting to be explored! This gorgeous island nation sits right in the Mediterranean, south of Italy and east of Tunisia—basically, prime territory for underwater magic.
The Maltese archipelago is made up of three main islands: Malta, Gozo, and Comino. The capital, Valletta, is perched on the island of Malta, full of charm and history. If you’re planning to hop between Malta and Gozo (which you should), getting there is easy thanks to super regular ferry services.
Whether you’re into wreck dives, caves, or crystal-clear waters, Malta has it all. Grab your gear and get ready to dive into one of the most stunning spots the Mediterranean has to offer!
Where to Dive in Malta?
Wondering where to start your underwater exploration in Malta? We’ve got you covered.
Some of the best dive sites in Malta are all scattered along the coastline of its sister island Gozo. The Maltese archipelago offers a trio of diving paradises: Malta, Gozo, and Comino. What sets them apart is the accessibility from Gozo to the best dive sites, which also tends to be less crowded, creating an enticing underwater haven for divers. In Malta, some historic wrecks and lively night life await, while Gozo’s is relaxed, with shore dives and mesmerizing caves just minutes away from most diving areas. We stayed in Marsalforn which offered amazing access to all the best dive sites in Gozo in under 10mins. This included the serene waters of Comino to explore of the P31 Patrol Boat. Whether you crave adventure, tranquility, or historical immersion, these islands offer distinct underwater journeys, making the Maltese archipelago a diver’s dream.
Malta's Underwater World
Malta is a diver’s dream, offering a mix of stunning underwater landscapes and world-class dive sites.
- The Blue Hole: A must-dive in Gozo, famous for its striking arch and crystal-clear visibility.
- Fascinating Topography: Dive through caves, swim-throughs, and dramatic rock formations that make every dive an adventure.
- Heritage Wrecks: Explore historic shipwrecks, including the Um El Faroud, a hauntingly beautiful oil tanker wreck that’s a favorite among wreck diving enthusiasts.
- Boat and Shore Diving: Whether you love boat dives or shore entries, Malta delivers with incredible accessibility and variety.
Add vibrant marine life and unbeatable underwater photography opportunities, and Malta’s underwater world becomes truly unforgettable. From thrilling wrecks to iconic natural sites, this is a destination no diver should miss!
Our Favourite Dives in Malta
BEST DIVE SITES IN MALTA
- Cirkewwa Reef: A vibrant reef teeming with marine life and stunning underwater topography.
- Blue Hole: Gozo’s iconic dive site with a dramatic arch and crystal-clear waters.
- Um El Faroud Wreck: This sunken oil tanker offers a hauntingly beautiful wreck dive experience.
- Inland Sea: A unique dive through an underwater tunnel leading to open water.
- Reqqa Point: Known for its drop-offs and abundant marine species, it’s a favorite for experienced divers.
- Santa Marija Caves: A magical labyrinth of swim-throughs and caverns perfect for exploration.
Its hard to have favourites or say what “The Best” as in truth every dive in Malta is awesome. With that said, these dive sites showcase Malta’s incredible underwater world, from thrilling wrecks to mesmerizing natural features.
Let’s delve deeper into the best dive sites in Malta
Blue Hole
When you think of Malta, The Blue Hole in Gozo is likely the most famous diving spot that comes to mind. This iconic dive site offers a unique adventure from the very start. The journey begins with a rocky trek to an underwater sinkhole that leads to the majestic Mediterranean. As divers descend through this natural underwater arch, they gain access to two mesmerizing dive sites: the Azure Window and Coral Gardens. The beauty of the Blue Hole, both above and below the surface, is something to behold. A sense of wonder and excitement accompanies divers as they navigate the intricate underwater terrain.
Cirkewwa Reef
Cirkewwa Reef is located on the northern coast of Malta, Cirkewwa Reef is a hotbed of underwater activity. This site is famous for its diverse marine life, with barracuda, octopuses, and moray eels frequently gracing divers with their presence. What’s even more remarkable is that from the same shore entry point, you can access two fantastic shipwrecks: the MV Rozi and the P29. These wrecks are not only fascinating to explore, but they also provide shelter for a myriad of marine species.
Inland Sea
Gozo Inland Sea is located on Malta’s captivating sister island, the Inland Sea is a site like no other. This unique dive experience begins with a tunnel that connects the natural lagoon to the open sea. As you pass through the 260-foot tunnel carved through the rock, you’ll find yourself immersed in an enchanting underwater world. Once divers complete this tunnel journey, they can explore the fascinating reef walls or continue their adventure by diving into the famous Blue Hole. The Inland Sea is a prime example of the natural beauty that Malta has to offer.
Reqqa Point
Reqqa Point is another jewel in Gozo’s crown, Reqqa Point promises divers a dramatic underwater landscape. Swim-throughs, tunnels, and caverns are the defining features of this site. As you dive, you’ll encounter an array of marine life, from lobsters to an impressive variety of reef fish. Nudibranch enthusiasts will be delighted to find these colorful creatures adorning the underwater terrain. Experienced technical divers will also find a special treat at Reqqa Point – the chimney, an underwater feature that adds an extra layer of excitement to the dive.
Santa Marija Caves
Santa Marija Caves are located on Comino, Santa Marija Caves is a haven for underwater explorers and photographers. This site boasts more than ten caves waiting to be discovered. Each cave offers a unique and mesmerizing experience, from captivating swim-throughs to expansive caverns that showcase the breathtaking underwater scenery. The Santa Marija Caves are a paradise for those who appreciate the art of underwater photography, as every corner is adorned with beauty that’s worth capturing. With so much to explore, this area will likely entice divers to return for multiple visits to uncover all the wonders it has to offer.
Um El Faroud SHIPWreck
Um El Faroud is for those who love wreck diving, Um El Faroud is an absolute must-visit wreck dive site. This famous wreck off the coast of Malta is a testament to the art of intentional sinking. Once a Libyan oil tanker, the Um El Faroud has since transformed into an impressive artificial reef. Divers will find the wreck resting at a depth of approximately 34 meters, making it a perfect playground for advanced divers. What sets Um El Faroud apart is the ability for divers to penetrate its various compartments, each revealing a unique world of marine life. As you explore, you might encounter groupers, barracuda, and the elusive conger eels. The Um El Faroud is not just a dive; it’s an underwater journey through history.
These dive sites are just a glimpse of the underwater treasures that Malta holds. Each site offers something extraordinary, whether you’re a beginner looking to start your diving journey or a seasoned diver eager to embark on another adventure. Malta’s dive sites cater to a spectrum of skill levels and interests, and the beauty and mystery of the underwater world await you.
EXPLORING MALTAS SHORE DIVING
While some of the best scuba diving in Malta is from a boat, Malta may surprose you for shore diving! It’s a hidden gem waiting to be explored. With over 50 dive sites scattered along its 136-mile coastline, Malta offers an abundance of opportunities for divers to embark on their underwater adventures.
One of the unique aspects of diving in Malta is the accessibility of shore dives. What this means for divers is the ability to explore the underwater world without the need for a boat. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or just starting your underwater journey, Malta’s shore diving options cater to all levels.
Diverse Dive Sites at Your Fingertips
Malta’s shoreline is a treasure trove of dive sites, with something for everyone. The beauty of this island nation is that you can find dive spots on every part of the island. Even more intriguing is the fact that when weather conditions impact one coastline, you can easily transition to the other side, where calm waters await. This flexibility ensures that your diving plans are never at the mercy of Mother Nature.
Independence and Guidance
Diving at your own pace and according to your preferences is made simple with shore diving in Malta. Renting a car becomes your passport to adventure, giving you the freedom to choose your dive sites and explore them as you see fit. This level of independence allows you to soak in the underwater wonders at your leisure.
For those who prefer a little more guidance, Malta offers the convenience of guided shore dives as well as boat dives. Why not visit our friends and experience an Atlantis Gozo Dive & Stay Package. They have some of the best local dive experts are on hand to lead you on underwater journeys that reveal the secrets of Malta’s coastline. Their knowledge and experience can transform an ordinary dive into an extraordinary one.
Easy Access to Equipment
When it comes to shore diving, preparation is key. Malta’s dive operators are well-equipped to support your underwater escapades. They offer equipment rentals, including cylinders, ensuring that you have access to the tools of the trade. This convenience means that you can simply focus on the thrill of the dive, knowing that your gear is in top-notch condition. Atlantis Pro Dive Gozo offer a great overview of local Malta dive regulations to get you started.
Whether you’re a solo explorer or you prefer to share the wonders of the deep with fellow divers, Malta’s shore diving options are as diverse as the marine life you’ll encounter beneath the waves. So, whether you’re gearing up for a spontaneous solo adventure or looking for guided expertise, Malta’s shore diving scene is your portal to discovering the captivating world that lies beneath the surface.
Wreck Diving in Malta
For those who are drawn to the mysteries of the deep, Malta is a dream destination, and its wreck diving scene is a testament to this. The waters surrounding this captivating island nation hide a treasure trove of historic wrecks waiting to be explored. From the MV Rozi to the P31 Patrol Boat, Malta’s purpose-sunk wrecks offer divers of all levels the chance to uncover the hidden stories that lie beneath the waves.
A Journey Through History
Wreck diving is a unique experience, one that allows you to journey through time and history. Malta’s historic wrecks provide a glimpse into the past, offering a window into bygone eras and the stories that have shaped them. Each wreck is like a time capsule waiting to be opened, and the tales they hold are as diverse as the marine life that now calls them home.
Accessible Wreck Adventures
What makes Malta particularly alluring to wreck diving enthusiasts is the accessibility of these underwater time capsules. Divers of all levels, from novices to seasoned pros, can delve into these submerged relics. The wrecks cater to a wide range of skill sets, making them an ideal destination for both those starting their diving journey and experienced wreck divers seeking new adventures.
Famous Shipwrecks in Malta
Malta is world-renowned for its shipwrecks, offering a treasure trove of history and adventure beneath its crystal-clear waters. These wrecks, ranging from historic WWII relics to purposefully scuttled vessels, create unforgettable diving experiences. Each site tells a story, offering divers the chance to explore fascinating underwater worlds teeming with marine life.
The most famous of these is the Um El Faroud, a massive oil tanker wreck and a hauntingly beautiful site for advanced divers. Other highlights include warships, submarines, and even airplanes that rest on the seabed, creating artificial reefs. Whether you’re a wreck diving enthusiast or a history buff, Malta’s wreck dives are unparalleled for their accessibility, variety, and sheer underwater beauty.
Top 5 Wreck Dives in Malta and Gozo
- Um El Faroud – A 10,000-ton oil tanker sunk in 1998, now a stunning reef and marine habitat.
- HMS Maori – A WWII British destroyer lying just off Valletta.
- P29 Patrol Boat – A former minesweeper, now a favorite site at Cirkewwa Reef.
- MV Karwela – A scuttled passenger ferry with dramatic swim-throughs, located in Gozo.
- Bristol Beaufighter – A WWII aircraft wreck off the coast of Malta, ideal for advanced divers.
Cave Diving in Malta: Unveiling Subterranean Secrets
Beneath the azure waves of Malta lies a world of wonders that few have had the privilege to discover. This is the realm of cave diving, an adventure like no other, offering divers a chance to traverse through the mesmerizing formations and explore the mysteries that have remained hidden beneath the sea for centuries.
The Allure of Underwater Caves
Cave diving is an enigmatic and alluring endeavor, and Malta is the perfect setting for this unique experience. As you venture into the underwater caves and caverns, you are transported to a different world, one where nature’s artistry is on full display. These subterranean passages are adorned with mesmerizing formations, created over millennia by the gentle caress of the sea.
Each cave tells a story, etched in its walls through the eons. The feeling of swimming through these submerged galleries is nothing short of surreal. It’s as if you’re moving through an ancient, hidden library, where the pages of time have been recorded in rock and coral.
Atlantis Dive Center: Gozo Diving Malta
Looking for the Best Diving in Malta?
While there are plenty of great dive centers in Malta, we always choose to dive and stay with Atlantis Gozo Dive Centre. Run by the amazing Brian and Stephania for over 30 years, their expertise and passion for diving make every trip unforgettable.
Atlantis Gozo isn’t just a dive center to us—it’s like a second home. Spending time with their team has unlocked so many diving secrets and unique opportunities in Malta. We admire their dedication to the underwater world, whether it’s teaching dive courses, running technical diving expeditions, or shaping future pro divers. With their deep knowledge and unwavering commitment to safety, you’ll be in great hands.
Looking for a place to stay? Atlantis Gozo has you covered with Diving Holiday Packages and a friendly team that’ll help both underwater and above. Plus, their dive shop is fully stocked to gear you up for your next adventure. Trust us—Atlantis Gozo ensures your diving experience is safe, fun, and absolutely unforgettable!
