Five Dive Sites in Malta

Malta is considered to be the Mecca for Divers. The Maltese Archipelago - the main Island Malta, the smaller island of Gozo and the tiny little island of Comino is a real paradise for divers and snorkelers. These islands have fortunately retained their natural state, to a large extent, due to the sea and its fauna. The attraction of the Maltese islands for the diver, however, is based on their unique topographic structure, their healthy water situation and their rich fauna.

1. Cirkewwa

Situated in the north of the island in the vicinity of the departure point of the Gozo ferry this location has long been a favorite among the locals mainly for its impressive drop off from 8m to 30m (25ft-90ft). The area boasts a picturesque arch and a number of caves. As it is on the channel, visibility is always high and apart from resident groupers one can encounter free swimming predators such as amberjack and dentex.

2. Anchor Bay

This is an ideal location when strong NE winds prevent diving in many other areas. Entry to the water is from a pier and the bottom slopes gradually, reaching depths of 28m (85ft) out on the sand. There is a large cave to be explored and the bottom is rich in red algae.

3. Ras I-Irqieqa

This is a thin strip of land at the southwest tip of Comino and most of the boat traffic going to Gozo goes past it. There is a sheer drop-off to 40m (120ft). The water is clear and the up swelling old currents from the depths support large shoals of sardines and bogue which are preyed upon by amberjacks, dentex and sometimes even tunny. The climax of the dive is the encounter with enormous grouper (2m/6ft) and his smaller relatives.

4. Reqqa Point

This is the northernmost tip of the Maltese Islands. The road on the beach is rough, the entry is tricky with a strong swell (choose a day when the sea is calm) but is a fantastic dive. The reef consists of a parapet at 30m (90ft) and then a drop to 60m (180ft). There is an excellent vantage point at 15m (45ft). Here one is literally in a cloud of small fish feeding on the nutriment-rich water. Large shoals of dentex have feeding frenzies, groupers are large and plentiful. Added to this there are large caves and deep waters.

5. Dwejra Point

Dwejra is one of the most spectacular diving areas of the Maltese Islands with deep water (60m/180ft) and many caves, arches, etc. The most dramatic is the 35m (145ft) tunnel which opens from the Inland Sea to the open sea where the bottom drops suddenly. Here large fish are to be found. The clear waters and depths can be deceptive so watch your decompression time!

The Maltese diving schools have organized themselves into the Association of Professional Diving Schools, with the result that the staff is well trained and responsible. There are various diving schools that cater for beginners and experienced divers, like Gozo Aqua Sports, Calypso and Nautic. Diving trips to the nearby small Island of Comino are also catered for. The ‘Cave Dive’ in Santa Maria and the ‘Rozi’ wreck dive off Cirkewwa are perfect for a day trip which includes morning and afternoon dives.

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