The Maltese archipelago, a cluster of sun-drenched limestone islands in the heart of the Mediterranean, holds a world-class secret just beneath the waves. For those in the know, Malta is not just a destination of historic cities and coastal charm; it is consistently ranked as one of the very best diving destinations in all of Europe. What makes it so special? It’s a combination of factors that create a diver’s paradise: astonishing water clarity that often exceeds 30 metres, a dramatic underwater topography of caves and drop-offs, and—most famously—a breathtaking collection of historical and purpose-sunk wrecks. Add to this a long, comfortable diving season that can stretch almost year-round, and you have the perfect recipe for an unforgettable underwater adventure.
Whether you’re a seasoned technical diver eager to explore a deep wreck or a curious beginner looking to take your first breaths underwater, Malta and its sister islands of Gozo and Comino offer a dive for every level of experience. This guide will take you on a tour of our most celebrated sites, introduce you to the vibrant marine life you might meet, and give you the practical advice you need to plan your trip.
Top Dive Sites: Exploring Malta’s Underwater Playgrounds
Malta’s dive sites are renowned for their variety. You can explore a deep wreck in the morning and a sun-dappled cavern in the afternoon. Here are some of the must-do dives, categorized by their unique appeal.
Legendary Wrecks
- The Um El Faroud (Malta): This is the titan of Maltese wreck diving. A 110-metre-long Libyan oil tanker, she was scuttled in 1998 following a tragic explosion in the Grand Harbour. Now sitting upright on a sandy bottom at a maximum depth of 36 metres near Wied iż-Żurrieq, the sheer scale of the wreck is awe-inspiring. Divers can explore the bridge, swim through companionways, and circle the massive propeller. The wreck has become a thriving artificial reef, attracting large schools of fish. Due to its depth and size, this is best suited for advanced divers.
- The P29 Patrol Boat (Malta): Located in the Cirkewwa Marine Park, the P29 is one of the most accessible and popular wrecks on the island. This former East German minesweeper was scuttled in 2007 and sits at a depth of around 34 metres. Its manageable size allows for a comprehensive exploration in a single dive. The gun turret at the bow makes for a classic photo opportunity, and the open interior spaces are safe for those with the proper training to penetrate.
- The Karwela Ferry Wreck (Gozo): One of three spectacular wrecks scuttled off the coast of Xatt l-Aħmar in Gozo, the Karwela is a former passenger ferry. She sits perfectly upright at a maximum depth of around 42 metres, with her top deck at a more accessible 30 metres. The main attraction is the photogenic central staircase, which is beautifully illuminated by the ambient light filtering down from above. Its clear, open structure makes it a favourite among underwater photographers.
Caves & Caverns
- The Blue Hole (Gozo): This is arguably the most famous dive site in the entire archipelago. The experience begins in a natural, sheltered rock pool before descending through a large underwater archway at around 10 metres. This opens out into the deep blue of the open sea, revealing a wall teeming with life. The incredible visibility and the dramatic play of light make this a bucket-list dive for divers of all levels.
- The Inland Sea (Gozo): Connected to the Blue Hole dive area, this is another of Gozo’s geological marvels. The dive starts in a shallow, lagoon-like inland sea, leading into a spectacular 80-metre-long tunnel through the headland. The journey through the semi-darkness of the tunnel, which gradually opens up to the stunning deep blue of the Mediterranean, is an unforgettable experience.
Vibrant Reefs
- The Cirkewwa Marine Park (Malta): Located at the northernmost point of Malta, Cirkewwa is a versatile area with multiple dive sites suitable for all levels. Besides the P29 and Rozi wrecks, it boasts beautiful reef walls and drop-offs. Divers can explore the stunning natural archway that drops down to over 20 metres, see the statue of Madonna, and navigate swim-throughs teeming with marine life. It’s an excellent location for training dives and night dives.
A Guide to Mediterranean Marine Life
While the Mediterranean isn’t the Red Sea, those who take the time to look closely will be rewarded with a surprising diversity of marine life.
- Common Fish: The most ubiquitous residents are the shimmering clouds of Damselfish (Chromis) that hover above reefs. You’ll also encounter various species of Seabream, elegant Saddled Bream, and the colourful Ornate Wrasse. A key player in the ecosystem is the beautiful Parrotfish, often seen munching on algae on the rocks.
- Masters of Camouflage: Keep a keen eye out for the true masters of disguise. Octopus are very common, often hidden in rocky dens with a pile of discarded shells giving away their location. The Scorpionfish, with its incredible cryptic camouflage, sits perfectly still on rocks, waiting for unsuspecting prey. In sandy areas, you might spot Cuttlefish hovering and changing colour in a hypnotic display.
- Larger Encounters: While not guaranteed, thrilling encounters with larger species are possible. Schools of silver Barracuda are often seen hanging motionless in the blue, particularly around wrecks and drop-offs. In the summer months, you might see fast-moving Tuna or Amberjacks hunting smaller fish. On sandy bottoms, look for the elegant Common Stingray.
Snorkeler’s Paradise
You don’t need a scuba tank to enjoy Malta’s underwater world. The same clear water that delights divers makes for fantastic snorkeling.
- The Blue Lagoon, Comino: While the centre can be busy with boats, the shallow, sandy-bottomed edges are perfect for beginners. The water clarity is second to none.
- Għar Lapsi, Malta: This sheltered, natural cove on the south coast is like a giant swimming pool. The shallow, clear waters and interesting rock formations make it a safe and rewarding spot for families to snorkel.
- Santa Maria Caves, Comino: A quieter alternative to the Blue Lagoon, these shallow cave systems are accessible to snorkelers. Exploring the sun-dappled caves and seeing the fish that shelter within them is a magical experience, often included in boat trips.
Choosing a Dive Centre
Your choice of dive centre will have a huge impact on your experience. Malta has dozens of highly professional operators. Here’s what to look for:
- Certification: Ensure the centre is affiliated with a major international training agency like PADI or SSI. This guarantees they adhere to global safety and training standards.
- Safety First: Ask about their safety procedures. Do they have oxygen and first aid kits readily available on their boats and vehicles? What are their guide-to-diver ratios? A professional centre will be happy to answer these questions.
- Rental Gear Quality: Look at the equipment. Is it well-maintained, modern, and from reputable brands? A centre that invests in its gear likely invests in its people and safety, too.
- Read Recent Reviews: Check out recent reviews on platforms like Google or TripAdvisor. Look for consistent comments about friendly staff, knowledgeable guides, and a strong emphasis on safety.
Malta’s underwater realm offers a journey through geology, history, and a vibrant marine ecosystem. It is a world of silent, sunlit cathedrals and deep, mysterious wrecks, waiting to be explored with respect and a sense of wonder.