Scuba Diving in Malta

Scuba diving in Malta isn’t just about clear water-it’s about variety packed into a small stretch of the Mediterranean. Visibility often reaches 30-40 metres, and within a single weekend, you can explore limestone arches, WWII wrecks, and colourful reefs. Local divers often say the real magic is how close everything is: a submarine dive in Malta, the Blue Hole in Gozo, and a cave night dive in Comino are all within easy reach.

(This article is written by diving instructors Rach and Nick, who have over 24 years of combined diving experience.)

Varieties of Diving Adventures in Malta

Malta offers a diverse range of diving experiences to cater to every enthusiast’s whim and fancy:

• Boat Diving: Experience the thrill of rolling backwards off a boat into the vast blue. Boat dives give you access to sites that are otherwise unreachable from shore, including remote caves and deeper reefs. Many of Malta’s top dive spots (e.g. around Comino or off Gozo) are best reached by boat, allowing divers to explore drop-offs and wrecks far from land.
  
• Shore Diving: The beauty of Malta is that numerous dive sites are easily accessible right from the shore. From rocky ledges to calm bays, you’re often just a few fin-kicks away from an underwater wonderland. Popular shore entries (some even with handy ladders and facilities) make it convenient to gear up and dive straight in. Shore diving in Malta is especially convenient for training dives and spontaneous excursions.
  
• Daylight Adventures: During daytime dives, witness the Mediterranean’s marine life in full glow. Sunlit reefs reveal colourful coral-like tubeworms, swaying seagrass meadows, and schools of vibrant fish. Common encounters include octopuses tucked in crevices and groupers or barracudas patrolling the reefs. The high visibility and bright ambient light allow you to fully appreciate the panorama of life and the dramatic geology beneath the water.
  
• Night Diving: As the sun sets, a whole new world emerges beneath the waves. Night diving lets you encounter nocturnal creatures and experience phenomena like bioluminescent plankton sparkles in the dark water. With a dive light in hand, you might spot hunting moray eels, cuttlefish, or spiny lobsters out foraging. The ambience is entirely different – tranquil, mysterious, and exhilarating. Familiar sites transform under torchlight, and you gain a new perspective on Malta’s underwater ecosystem.

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Malta’s Must-Visit Dive Sites

Malta and Gozo boast some world-class dive sites. Below are several must-visit sites that should be on every diver’s list when visiting the islands:

• Blue Hole (Gozo): Perhaps the most iconic dive site in the Maltese Islands, the Blue Hole is a natural cylindrical sinkhole in the limestone rock at Dwejra, Gozo. Divers enter in a protected pool and descend to about 15 m, where a stunning archway (“the Azure Window” underwater window) opens out into the open sea. 

The site features a cavern, dramatic rock formations including huge boulders (remnants of the collapsed Azure Window arch), and abundant marine life on the cave walls (bright sponges, corals, and tubeworms). This geological wonder is suitable for Open Water divers and beyond, and it offers an unforgettable seascape as sunlight beams through the arch into the blue.

• Um El Faroud Wreck (Wied iż-Żurrieq, Malta): The Um El Faroud is a 115-meter long, 10,000-ton tanker ship that now rests upright on the sandy seabed off Malta’s south coast. After a tragic explosion in 1995, the vessel was scuttled in 1998 to create an artificial reef. Today it sits in ~36 meters of water, broken in two but still imposing, and has become a thriving habitat for marine life. 

Advanced divers can explore the intact propellers, decks, and even penetrate sections of the wreck (with proper training). Expect to see schools of barracuda often circling above the ship’s funnel and plenty of scorpionfish, moray eels, and octopus taking refuge in the structure. This is a signature Malta dive – a somber piece of history turned underwater attraction.

• Ċirkewwa (Northern Malta): Ċirkewwa is a popular dive area at Malta’s northwest tip, offering a variety of underwater attractions in one zone. It’s famed for the Cirkewwa Arch, a beautiful natural archway starting around 8–10 m depth and sitting about 12 m below the surface. Just beyond the arch, the reef drops off, and divers can find the wreck of the P29 patrol boat – a 52 m long former coast guard vessel scuttled in 2007 as a dive site. 

The P29 lies upright at ~34 m depth and is easily accessible to Advanced divers, now home to scorpionfish and damselfish. Another wreck, the tugboat Rozi, lies nearby at about 35 m. Ċirkewwa’s combination of shallow reef (great for novices) and deeper wrecks/structures (for advanced divers) makes it a versatile site. You’ll also likely encounter parrotfish, wrasses, and maybe an occasional ray on the sandy patches.

• Xlendi Bay (Gozo): A serene bay on Gozo’s southwest coast that offers an easy yet fascinating dive. Xlendi Bay is perfect for beginners and underwater photographers thanks to its calm conditions and interesting features. The bay includes an undersea tunnel (starting very shallow and opening out around 9 m deep) that you can swim through – an exciting introduction to cavern diving as light is visible throughout. 

Outside the tunnel, the depth reaches about 20 m with reefs and rock formations to explore. Xlendi is also known for its variety of marine life: expect small groupers, octopuses, cuttlefish, and lots of nudibranchs among the rocks. (Notably, there was once an underwater statue in the area, though the famous Christ of the Sailors statue is now relocated near Qawra). Xlendi’s combination of a swim-through cave, gentle depth and plentiful sea life makes it both relaxing and rewarding.

• Xatt l-Aħmar Wrecks (Gozo): Off Gozo’s south coast at Xatt l-Aħmar lie three impressive shipwrecks deliberately scuttled as artificial reefs for divers. The MV Karwela (a 50 m former ferry) and the MV Cominoland (35 m tourist vessel) were both sunk in August 2006, and they sit upright on the sandy seabed around 38–40 m deep. Nearby rests the older MV Xlendi ferry, scuttled in 1999, which unfortunately landed on its side and partially collapsed, but still provides an artificial reef.

These wrecks are a wonderland for experienced divers – you can swim through the ferry’s open decks and staircase on the Karwela, or explore the exterior of Cominoland, which is adorned with growing corals and algae. The area’s depth means these dives are for Advanced (and deep-certified) divers, but they are a highlight for anyone who loves wreck diving. Marine life is plentiful, with large schools of chromis and damselfish, and the occasional amberjack or barracuda hunting around the wrecks.

• HMS Stubborn (off Qawra, Malta): Diving into history, the HMS Stubborn is a British S-class submarine from World War II that lies at about 56 m depth, roughly 3 km northeast of Qawra Point. Intentionally scuttled in 1946 for sonar target practice, the 66 m long sub now rests upright on a sandy bottom. This is a technical dive (mixed-gas territory) due to the depth – the conning tower is around 50 m – but it is one of the most rewarding for tech divers in Malta. 

The submarine is largely intact, essentially a time capsule on the seafloor. Divers with the training to visit Stubborn will find a haunting, fascinating site; conger eels and spider crabs often lurk around the hull, and encrusting organisms cover the metal. Seeing the silhouette of a WWII submarine materialise out of the deep blue is an awe-inspiring experience.

• Santa Maria Caves (Comino): A favourite for those who love cave and cavern diving, the Santa Maria Caves (a.k.a. Comino Caves) are a cluster of at least 10 interconnected caverns on the north side of Comino. This shallow dive site (average 7–10 m deep) is accessible only by boat, and is suitable for all levels, including beginners. Each cave has its own character – some are wide caverns half-open to the sky with light streaming in, others are narrower swim-through tunnels that give a thrilling cavern experience. 

You can weave through passages and even surface inside a cave chimney for a breather. The water here shimmers an electric blue near cave entrances due to sunlight, offering fantastic photo opportunities. Marine life is friendly and abundant: schools of bream follow divers around (often hoping to be fed), and you’ll spot moray eels, spiny lobsters, nudibranchs, and octopus among the rocks. Santa Maria Caves is essentially a natural playground for divers and snorkelers alike, showcasing Comino’s submerged limestone scenery at its best.

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Hidden Treasures: Lesser-Known Dive Sites

Beyond Malta’s famous dive spots lie hidden gems that offer equally mesmerising underwater adventures. These lesser-known sites often feature caves, tunnels, and dramatic drop-offs teeming with marine life, yet see far fewer crowds. For experienced divers looking to venture off the beaten path, the following dive sites promise unique and unforgettable experiences:

• Għar Lapsi: A shallow reef dive on Malta’s southwest coast known for its extensive cave system. Għar Lapsi features a well-lit cavern over 40 meters long, with cracks in the rock ceiling that let in beams of sunlight. The play of light and colour inside this cave makes it a paradise for underwater photographers. A network of tunnels – including one leading to a hidden air pocket – adds to the site’s mystique, making each dive an exploratory delight.
  
• Ta Ċenċ: Located off Gozo’s southern coast, Ta Ċenċ is a mesmerising wall dive in the shadow of the island’s highest cliffs. These sheer limestone cliffs plunge approximately 30 meters below the surface, ending in a jumble of large boulders on the seabed. The boulder field creates a labyrinth of swim-throughs that shelters an abundance of marine life. To top it off, there’s a picturesque shallow-water cave to explore here as well. With its crystal-clear visibility and dramatic topography, Ta Ċenċ is a must-visit for underwater enthusiasts seeking something different.
  
• Lantern Point (Ras I-Irqieqa): A pinnacle dive site at the southwest tip of Comino, renowned for its underwater architecture. Lantern Point boasts a gently sloping plateau (~6–8 m) that leads to a spectacular vertical chimney (an L-shaped tunnel) accessible even to less experienced divers. As you descend further, steep drop-offs extend beyond 50 meters into the blue, opening into a network of caverns and swim-throughs beneath massive boulders. The site is a haven for marine life – expect to find vibrant sponges, corals, nudibranchs, and schools of fish darting around the arches and tunnels. With its maze of passages and the iconic archway/chimney, Lantern Point promises an unparalleled diving experience in the Maltese islands.

Why Is Malta One of the Best Places for Beginners to Learn Scuba Diving?

If you’re thinking about trying scuba diving for the first time, Malta and Gozo are hard to beat. The waters here are warm and clear, with visibility often stretching 30 metres or more, so you can see everything around you. Many beginner-friendly sites, like Xlendi Bay or Anchor Bay, have shallow, calm entries that make getting started stress-free. Add in experienced instructors offering PADI, SSI, and RAID courses, small group sizes, and the fact that English is widely spoken, and you’ve got one of the most welcoming places in the world to take your first plunge.

• Structured Training: Malta has a plethora of dive schools (PADI, SSI, RAID, and more) that offer internationally recognised courses for beginners. Professional instructors ensure you get the best and safest training, starting with basic pool sessions to guided open water dives.
  
• Beginner-Friendly Sites: Plenty of sites around the islands are well-suited for novice divers. Places like Marsaskala (Zonqor Point), Anchor Bay (Popeye Village), Sliema (Exiles/Tugboat 2 area), and Xlendi Bay in Gozo offer sheltered entry points and shallow depths, making them perfect for training dives.  For example, Anchor Bay maxes out around 12 m with easy conditions and even has a dedicated training area for try dives, while Xlendi Bay’s 70 m long cavern and calm reef are known as one of Gozo’s easiest dive spots for beginners. Such sites let new divers build confidence while enjoying vibrant marine life in a relaxed setting.
  
• Quality Rental Gear: No gear? No problem! Malta’s reputable dive centres (including Ritual Dive and many others) provide top-notch rental equipment for students and tourists. From wetsuits and regulators to dive computers, you can rent everything you need, ensuring you have safe and reliable kit that fits well. All equipment is regularly maintained, so you can focus on learning without worrying about buying your own gear initially.
  
• “Try Dives” for First-Timers: If you’re not ready to commit to a full course, most dive shops offer one-off introductory dives (often called Try Dives or Discover Scuba experiences). These come with no strings attached – you simply kit up and dive in under the close supervision of an instructor. It’s a fantastic way to experience breathing underwater for the first time, in a controlled environment, before deciding to pursue certification.

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Diving Courses in Malta

Malta is a top spot for scuba diving courses, with PADI, SSI, and RAID centres offering training from beginner to pro. Clear waters and varied sites make it ideal for learning – sheltered bays suit first-timers, while wrecks and deep walls challenge advanced divers. Whether it’s Open Water, Nitrox, or Divemaster, Malta has a course for every level. Here are the most popular diving certifications and specialities you’ll find across the islands:

• Open Water Diver: This is the first step for most new divers. The Open Water course builds fundamental skills, safety procedures, and knowledge, allowing you to dive confidently to a depth of 18 m upon completion. It’s your introduction to the magical underwater world, combining theory sessions, confined water practice, and four open water dives.
  
• Advanced Open Water: The next level course designed to improve your skills and expand your depth range. In the Advanced Open Water course, divers complete different adventure dives – typically including a deep dive (up to 30 m) and a navigation dive, plus several elective dives (like wreck, boat, or peak performance buoyancy). By the end, you’ll be a more self-assured diver with experience in various underwater activities.
  
• Speciality Courses: Malta’s diverse sites make it a great place to pursue speciality certifications that cater to your interests. Options range from Wreck Diving (basic and advanced) to Underwater Photography, Night Diving, Deep Diving, Boat Diving, and more. Each speciality course provides focused training and practice – for instance, a wreck diving course will teach you how to safely explore sunken ships, while a photography course helps you capture the underwater scenery like a pro. These certifications allow you to delve deeper into specific facets of diving that excite you.
  
• Rescue Diver & Divemaster: For those looking to take their skills to a professional or leadership level, the Rescue Diver course is a pivotal step. It trains you in handling dive emergencies, self-rescue techniques, and assisting others – greatly boosting your confidence and preparedness. Following that, the Divemaster course is the first professional-level rating. As a divemaster, you learn to guide certified divers, assist instructors with classes, and effectively manage dive operations. These courses are more intensive and demanding, but they transform you from a recreational diver into a capable leader in the diving community.

PRO Diving Courses in Malta

Many seasoned divers come to Malta to advance their qualifications and even turn their passion into a career. The islands host several instructor-development facilities and career dive schools, making it a popular place to train as a dive professional. With English widely spoken and a year-round diving season, Malta offers an inviting environment for aspiring dive leaders to earn internationally recognised credentials.

• Divemaster: The first rung on the professional ladder. As a Divemaster, you’ll be qualified to supervise dive activities and assist instructors in teaching courses. Malta’s Divemaster programs emphasise leadership, dive theory, and practical skills – you’ll refine your navigation, improve rescue abilities, and learn to brief and guide dives. It’s a role that carries significant responsibility, but also the reward of sharing your love of diving with others.
  
• SSI Instructor Training Course: This program (offered by Scuba Schools International and other agencies) transforms experienced divers into certified instructors. The course is comprehensive – covering teaching techniques, course planning, safety management, and mastery of all core scuba skills. Upon successful completion, you become an Open Water Scuba Instructor, authorised to teach and certify new divers in a range of SSI courses. It’s an intensive but highly rewarding path, allowing you to inspire the next generation of divers and impart your knowledge.
  
• Agency Crossovers: Already an instructor with another agency? Malta also offers crossover courses for dive professionals seeking to expand their qualifications. An instructor crossover (for example, to SSI or RAID) enables you to become dual-certified and teach under multiple organisations’ standards. This flexibility is great for broadening employment opportunities. The crossover training familiarises you with the new agency’s curriculum and methodologies, adding another feather to your professional cap.

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Diving Equipment Essentials for Malta’s Waters

Diving in Malta, Gozo, and Comino means dealing with rocky shore entries, seasonal thermoclines, and long dive times on wrecks – so the right gear isn’t optional, it’s essential. From sturdy boots for sharp limestone coastlines to wetsuits suited for seasonal shifts (3mm in summer, 7mm or semi-dry in winter), equipment directly affects both safety and comfort. Here’s the kit every diver should consider before exploring Malta’s waters:

• Mask and Snorkel: A high-quality, well-fitting mask is vital for clear vision underwater, and a snorkel allows you to breathe at the surface with your face in the water. These let you comfortably observe the marine life and scenery before and after your dive, and conserve air in your tank when swimming on the surface.
  
• Fins: Strong, properly-fitted fins provide the propulsion you need to move through the water with ease. They help you navigate currents and cover distance without exhausting yourself. Open-heel fins with adjustable straps paired with dive boots are popular in Malta due to the shore entries (closed-heel fins can be used for boat dives or if you prefer barefoot in very warm weather).
  
• Dive Boots: Given Malta’s rocky shorelines and entry points, dive boots (neoprene booties) are indispensable. They protect your feet from sharp rocks and sea urchins when walking in and out of the water, and they also provide insulation. Boots paired with open-heel fins give you a comfortable and secure setup for shore diving.
  
• Wetsuit: An exposure suit is necessary to keep you warm and prevent scrapes. The required thickness depends on the season – Malta’s sea temperatures range from about 25–28 °C in the summer down to roughly 15 °C in the winter. In the hot summer months, a 3 mm full wetsuit (or even a shorty) usually suffices. By late autumn and winter, you’ll want a thicker 5 mm to 7 mm wetsuit or a semi-dry suit to stay warm during dives. (Some avid divers even use drysuits in the coldest weeks, though most find a 7 mm adequate for Malta’s winter water temps.)
  
• Buoyancy Control Device (BCD): A BCD is the vest that holds your tank and lets you adjust your buoyancy by adding or releasing air. It’s essential for maintaining neutral buoyancy underwater – a critical skill for reef and wreck diving to avoid damaging marine life or stirring up silt. A good BCD also has integrated weight pockets or a weight belt system to help you descend and achieve proper trim.
  
• Regulator: The regulator is your lifeline underwater – it’s the device that takes the high-pressure air from your tank and delivers it to you at ambient pressure so you can breathe. In Malta, as anywhere, you need a reliable regulator (first and second stage plus an alternate air source and gauges). Most dive centers provide well-maintained regulators with their rental gear, but if you bring your own, having it serviced before your trip is wise.
  
• Dive Computer: A dive computer tracks your depth and bottom time and calculates nitrogen loading, making it easier to dive within safe limits. Using a computer is highly recommended, even on beginner dives, as it maximizes your bottom time and keeps you informed of your ascent rate and safety stop. Many Maltese dive sites involve multi-level profiles (e.g. exploring a shallow reef then a deeper wreck on the same dive), so a computer helps manage your dive plan more flexibly than dive tables.
  

Finally, remember that if you prefer not to travel with a full kit, Malta’s dive centres have you covered. Nearly all operators – including Ritual Dive in Gozo – offer high-quality rental gear for visitors. This means you can show up with just your swimsuit and certification card, and still be fully equipped to enjoy Malta’s underwater treasures. Each piece of gear, from wetsuits to dive computers, can be rented on-site, ensuring convenience and peace of mind for travelling divers.

What Do You Expect To See: Malta’s Underwater Inhabitants

Thanks to its mix of limestone reefs, submerged caves, and purpose-sunk wrecks, Malta is one of the Mediterranean’s most biodiverse diving spots. Divers can explore Posidonia seagrass meadows that shelter seahorses, follow barracuda hunting along drop-offs, or spot octopus and moray eels hiding in rocky crevices. From shallow bays to deep wrecks, each site reveals a wide range of creatures and habitats:

• Fish: Large schools of fish such as barracuda and seabream are common, and occasionally the elusive John Dory can be spotted cruising the reefs. Groupers, scorpionfish, and moray eels also inhabit Malta’s dive sites in abundance.
  
• Molluscs & Invertebrates: The rocky crevices harbour octopuses and cuttlefish, often well-camouflaged against the seabed. Colourful nudibranchs (sea slugs) are a favourite find for macro enthusiasts, crawling on rocks and wrecks. You may also find squids, crabs, and shrimp hidden in the underwater landscape.
  
• Marine Flora: Malta’s clear waters support Posidonia seagrass meadows and rich algal growth, which oxygenate the sea and shelter marine life. Dive sites like Coral Cave are adorned with soft corals and sponges coating the walls. Sponges of various hues and delicate corals (e.g. Neptune’s lace or encrusting corals) thrive especially in caves and swim-throughs, painting the underwater scenery with colour.
  
• Larger Fauna: While big pelagic animals do not typically characterise Malta’s diving, divers do encounter stingrays gliding over sandy flats and hunting amberjacks patrolling the blue waters. The lucky few might even see a wild dolphin or two during a dive – on rare occasions, pods of dolphins have been observed passing by popular sites like Ċirkewwa. (Sea turtles and seahorses are also present but sighted infrequently.) In general, Malta offers an excellent variety of Mediterranean marine life to delight both novice and experienced divers.

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Safety First: Ensuring Secure Dives in Malta

Malta maintains a strong focus on diver safety, and local dive operators generally emphasise best practices. Whether you’re a beginner or a veteran, always keep the following guidelines in mind:

• Stay Within Your Training: Only dive sites and depths that match your certification level and experience. Pushing beyond your limits can be dangerous – make sure you are adequately trained and comfortable for the dive plan at hand. Dive within the parameters of your certification, and if you feel unwell or unprepared, it’s best to sit it out and dive another day.
  
• Check Your Equipment: Always perform a thorough equipment check before every dive. This includes verifying your regulator, BCD, tanks, weights, gauges, and any rental gear for proper function. Regular maintenance (at least annually) of critical gear is essential. A careful pre-dive buddy check (following the BWRAF procedure) can catch potential issues early and prevent accidents.
  
• Stay Updated on Weather Conditions: Although Malta’s waters are generally calm and clear, weather can change, especially outside of summer. Always review the local weather and sea state forecast before diving. Avoid diving in strong winds or rough seas – for instance, if a storm or high wind is forecast, it can create currents and waves that make diving unsafe. Choosing sheltered sites or postponing a dive in poor weather is the smart way to stay safe.
  
• Always Dive with a Buddy: Never dive alone, especially when going cave diving. Using the buddy system means you and your partner are there to assist one another in case of any problem underwater. Stay close to your buddy, maintain communication via hand signals, and agree on a dive plan together. A buddy not only enhances safety but also makes the dive more enjoyable. In Malta’s well-organised dive culture, guided group dives are common, but even when shore diving independently, ensure you have a competent buddy at your side.

Diving Equipment

When Are The Best Months to Dive in Malta and Gozo?

The best Months to dive in Malta and Gozo are between June and September, when the sea is warm (25–28 °C), visibility often exceeds 30 m, and weather conditions are at their calmest. That said, diving is possible year-round thanks to mild winters and sheltered sites, with each season offering its own advantages.

Here’s a breakdown of what to expect throughout the year:

• April – May: Spring brings warming air temperatures (often into the high teens °C), but the sea is lagging in warmth and still “cool” (around 15–17 °C) after winter. You’ll have mild, pleasant days topside; diving is definitely possible in spring, though a thicker wetsuit (5 mm or 7 mm) or even a drysuit is recommended until the sea warms up. Rain becomes infrequent by May, and visibility starts improving as winter storms subside.
  
• June – August: This is the peak summer period and the most popular time for diving. Malta’s weather is hot and dry in summer, with average daytime highs around 30 °C and virtually no rainfall in July and early August. Sea surface temperatures climb to ~25–28 °C by late July/August, the warmest of the year. These months offer excellent diving conditions – calm seas, great visibility (often 30 m or more), and minimal wind or rain interruptions. Underwater, both shallow and deep sites are comfortable in thin wetsuits or even shorties by mid-summer.
  
• September: Early autumn in Malta still feels like summer. Air temperatures in September are as warm as in June (mid-20s °C), and the sea is actually at its warmest (often 26 °C or more, since the water has been heating all summer). Divers in September enjoy balmy water that retains heat from August. Do note that September can bring the first rains after the dry season – a few rainy days may occur, but these are usually short-lived showers. Overall, it’s an excellent month for diving, with peak water temperatures and generally good conditions apart from the occasional rainstorm.
  
• October: In autumn, the weather starts shifting. Air temperature drops slightly (into the low 20s °C by late October), and rainfall increases compared to summer – October sees more frequent showers and the start of the windy season. However, the sea remains warm in early October, with deep water retaining summer heat and only cooling gradually. By late October, sea temps typically ease down to ~23–24 °C. This is a transitional month: you get warm water at depth (great for deeper dives), but you might encounter choppier seas or reduced dive days if autumn storms roll in. Many divers still visit in October as it offers uncrowded sites and decent conditions, but being flexible with scheduling dives around weather windows is wise.
  
• Winter (November – March): The off-season for Maltese diving is the winter period, yet diving is still quite feasible for the keen diver. Winters are mild by European standards: air temperatures range roughly 10–17 °C. The sea temperature rarely falls below about 15 °C even in the coldest months (Jan–Feb), which is comparatively warm water for winter diving. You will need thicker exposure protection (7 mm wetsuit or drysuit) in winter, but many dive centers remain open, especially on weekends for locals and off-season visitors. 

Do expect more wind and some rough seas in winter – December and January are the windiest, rainiest months on average. There may be days when no safe shore entry can be found due to weather. However, Malta’s geography means if one side of the island has high waves, the other side may be calm (there’s almost always a leeward side). Winter diving can be very rewarding with virtually no crowds and exceptionally clear water on calm days (colder water often equals better visibility).

Summer is perfect for comfort, while winter offers quieter dive sites and unique marine life. With the right gear and by selecting sites according to the daily weather, diving in Malta can be enjoyed in all seasons.

Which Season Is Best for Diving in Malta?

The best season for diving in Malta is summer (June–September) when the water is warmest and visibility is at its peak. Malta and Gozo have one of the longest summers in Europe, from April to November and are known for their clear, calm waters. If you prefer quieter sites and don’t mind cooler seas, winter is a great time to avoid crowds. Spring and autumn sit in between-offering mild weather, fewer tourists, and good diving conditions.

Malta’s average annual day temperature is about 22°C (72°C) and an average night temperature of about 15°C (59°C). Even in Winter, from December to February, the sea rarely drops below 15°C (59°C), but you can expect some rain and wind.

Winter Diving in Malta (December – February)

Winter diving is Malta’s hidden gem. While most tourists stay away, dedicated divers enjoy quiet sites and excellent clarity.

• Air Temperature: 10°C – 17°C (50°F – 63°F)
  
• Sea Temperature: 15°C – 19°C (59°F – 66°F), surface and 30m depths almost identical
  
• Visibility: Often 25–30m due to reduced plankton
  
• Rainfall: 10–17 rainy days per month (45–110mm)
  
• Crowds: Very low – many dive centres scale back operations
  
• Wetsuit Recommendation: 7mm or semi-dry suit with hood and gloves

Best for: Experienced divers who want peace, wreck exploration without crowds, and superb visibility.

Spring Diving in Malta (March – May)

Spring bridges the cooler waters of winter with the warmth of summer. It’s quieter than peak season but with increasingly pleasant conditions.

• Air Temperature: 11°C – 26°C (52°F – 79°F)
  
• Sea Temperature: Surface 15°C – 21°C (59°F – 70°F); 30m depth 15°C – 18°C (59°F – 64°F)
  
• Visibility: 20–25m, improving through May
  
• Rainfall: 3–11 rainy days per month (8–45mm)
  
• Crowds: Moderate; May sees an uptick in tourism
  
• Wetsuit Recommendation: 5–7mm until late May, then lighter

Best for: Divers who prefer shoulder-season calm, less tourist traffic, and still-reasonable water temperatures.

Summer Diving in Malta (June – August)

Summer is the most popular diving season, offering warm waters and calm seas, but also busier sites.

• Air Temperature: 18°C – 32°C (64°F – 90°F)
  
• Sea Temperature: Surface 21°C – 26°C (70°F – 79°F); 30m depth 18°C – 21°C (64°F – 70°F)
  
• Visibility: 25–40m, ideal for underwater photography
  
• Rainfall: 0–8 rainy days per month (0–20mm)
  
• Crowds: High – dive centres and popular sites are busiest
  
• Wetsuit Recommendation: 3mm shorty or full wetsuit

Best for: Beginners, holiday divers, and photographers seeking warm, clear conditions and vibrant marine life.

Autumn Diving in Malta (September – November)

Autumn combines summer’s warm waters with fewer crowds, making it a favourite among many divers.

• Air Temperature: 13°C – 31°C (55°F – 88°F)
  
• Sea Temperature: Surface 20°C – 26°C (68°F – 79°F); 30m depth 19°C – 21°C (66°F – 70°F)
  
• Visibility: 20–35m, excellent in September
  
• Rainfall: 8–13 rainy days per month (20–105mm)
  
• Crowds: Decreasing steadily from September onwards
  
• Wetsuit Recommendation: 3–5mm in September, 5–7mm by November

Best for: Divers who want warm seas without peak-season traffic, plus extended daylight for longer dive trips.

Seasonal Diving Conditions in Malta – Quick Reference Table

Malta’s wind, rain and sunshine

Malta enjoys over 300 days of sunshine a year, making it a reliable diving destination. Here are some climate specifics regarding wind, rain, and sunshine, and how they relate to diving:

Wind: The windiest time of year in Malta is from autumn through spring (approximately October to March). The peak wind month is December, which has an average wind speed of about 15.6 mph (25 km/h). Generally, winds above ~12 mph (Beaufort Force 4 and above) start to create significant waves and surface chop. In fact, sustained winds of 13–24 mph (20–38 km/h) can produce rough seas with wave heights up to ~3 m, which is borderline or too rough for safe recreational diving. During the windiest periods, certain dive sites on the exposed side of the islands may be undivable for days at a time. 

The good news is that Malta has many sheltered bays and leeward coasts – when a northwesterly wind blows (the prevailing direction), you can typically find calm waters on the southeastern side, and vice versa. Local divers are adept at “chasing the calm,” selecting dive sites that are protected from the wind on a given day. June through September tend to have the lightest winds (often under 12 mph most days), which is one reason this summer period is ideal for diving. Always check the day’s wind forecast and avoid sites with onshore winds above ~Force 4, as strong surf can make entries and exits hazardous.

Rain and Sunshine: Malta averages around 90 rainy days per year, but almost all of that rain falls in the autumn and winter months. Summers are extremely dry – for example, July often sees less than 1 day of measurable rain (sometimes essentially 0 days). In contrast, December typically has ~15 rainy days, making it the wettest month. Rain can reduce dive visibility due to runoff, especially after heavy thunderstorms, but because Malta’s terrain is rocky with few rivers, the impact is localised and the water often clears within a day or two. 

Moreover, even in the rainy season, you will still encounter many clear days. Malta is renowned for its abundant sunshine, with approximately 300 days of sun each year. This means that even in winter, sunshine is common between rain showers, and in summer the sky is almost always clear. For divers, abundant sunshine is a plus, as it improves underwater illumination and visibility.

On windy days, remember that one side of the islands will usually be sheltered and sunny; thanks to Malta’s small size, you can drive to the opposite coast (often under an hour) to find diveable conditions if your original spot is windy or rained out. In short, Malta and Gozo enjoy a mild climate with lots of sun, and there is typically somewhere around the islands suitable for diving on any given day, year-round, if you stay flexible and plan with the weather.

Check out Malta and Gozo’s weather here.

Which time of Day is best For Diving in Malta

In Malta (as in many destinations), late morning to early afternoon (approximately 10 AM – 2 PM) is often cited as the best window for scuba diving and snorkelling because the sun is high, allowing maximum light to penetrate the water column. That said, different times of day have their own advantages:

Morning: Early morning dives are prized for their calm conditions. Typically, the wind and waves are at their lowest in the morning hours, since winds tend to pick up later in the day. This means better surface conditions and often better visibility underwater, as less wave action means fewer particles stirred up. Many marine creatures are also more active during the morning; for instance, you might see schools of fish on the move and predators like groupers or jacks hunting before the sea warms up. 

Additionally, morning sunlight (before it gets too harsh) provides a gentle illumination underwater without too much glare, making marine colours appear vivid. An extra bonus: in Malta’s hot summer, a morning dive lets you enjoy cooler air temperatures before midday heat. Overall, if you want calmer seas and longer dives (thanks to lower exertion and air consumption), morning is the king of dive times.

Afternoon: Midday and afternoon dives offer the brightest light under water, since the sun is directly overhead at noon. Around 10 am–2 pm the sunlight can reach even deeper parts of the reef, which is great for photography and for illuminating caves or wreck interiors. Afternoon is also when casual snorkelers often hit the water, benefiting from the peak sun angle. However, keep in mind that by late morning and afternoon, winds often become stronger. In Malta, a breeze that was calm at dawn may create noticeable chop by 1 pm. These windier afternoon conditions can lead to a bit more current or reduced visibility compared to the morning. If you’re diving in the afternoon, be prepared for slightly tougher surface conditions and consider sites with easy entries/exits. 

On the positive side, the high sun can make shallow reefs look stunning, and you might enjoy warmer surface intervals. Many divers do one dive in the morning and one in early afternoon to take advantage of both periods. Just note that afternoon snorkelling is still very good on sunny days, but if strong winds arise, the stirred sediment can make the water a bit hazier than it was in the morning.

Night: Night diving in Malta is a special experience that lets you witness a completely different side of the underwater world. After sunset, many nocturnal creatures emerge – octopuses, cuttlefish, squid, lobsters, and other night hunters become active, often giving divers an up-close show in their torch beams. Coral polyps and plankton can also be seen fluorescing or feeding at night. The calm and darkness of the sea at night feels almost otherworldly, and on some occasions, you may witness bioluminescent organisms glowing with each fin kick. 

Extra precautions are needed for night dives: you must carry a primary dive light and a backup light (in case one fails) and be very vigilant about your depth, time, and navigation since landmarks are less visible. Good buoyancy control is crucial to avoid accidental contact with the bottom or loss of reference in the dark. It’s recommended to only do night dives after you have some experience (or with an instructor/guide), and to choose familiar sites with easy topography. When done safely, night dives can be the highlight of a Malta trip – just plan for a shallow, simple dive and enjoy the unique nocturnal sea life.

Local divers often prefer early mornings.

Local divers often prefer early mornings, not just for calmer seas but because marine life tends to be more active before the midday heat. Octopus and cuttlefish are easier to spot at dawn, while schools of fish gather near shallow reefs. Afternoon dives can reward photographers with golden sun rays cutting dramatically through caverns and swim-throughs, creating unique light effects. Night dives, meanwhile, are when you’ll see Malta’s waters come alive with hunting moray eels, sleeping parrotfish, and even bioluminescent plankton. If you’re here for a short trip, mix one morning dive and one night dive – you’ll experience two completely different versions of the same site.

FAQs About Diving in Malta

How deep is the sea between Malta and Gozo?
The channel between Malta and Gozo averages around 30 metres deep. While not extremely deep, currents can occasionally strengthen here, so crossings are better suited to experienced divers and boat trips rather than long shore dives.

How deep can you scuba dive in Malta?
Recreational divers can safely explore sites down to 40 metres, such as wrecks at Cirkewwa. Technical divers with trimix certification can reach over 100 metres, including deep wrecks and submarine sites. Always dive within your certification limits and conditions.

What wetsuit is best for diving in Malta?
In summer, a 3mm wetsuit or shorty is usually enough. By late autumn and winter, you’ll need a 5–7mm suit or semi-dry with hood and gloves. Personally, we recommend a 5mm full suit in spring and autumn to balance warmth with flexibility.

What are the diving conditions in Malta?
Malta has calm, clear waters with visibility often between 20–40 metres. Currents are usually mild, making it beginner-friendly. Summer and early autumn bring the warmest seas, while winter offers superb visibility with fewer crowds, though colder water.

How deep is the Blue Hole in Gozo?
The Blue Hole itself is about 16 metres deep, but the site opens onto wall dives that drop beyond 60 metres. Recreational divers enjoy the arch and coral, while technical divers can explore deeper plateaus.

Is the sea water warm in Malta?
Sea temperatures range from 15°C in winter to 26–28°C in summer. This long warm season makes Malta one of Europe’s top year-round diving destinations.

What level of diver do I need to be in Malta?
Malta caters to all levels. Beginners enjoy shallow bays like Xlendi or Anchor Bay, while advanced divers explore wrecks and deep caves. Sites like HMS Stubborn require technical certifications. Always match the dive to your skill and training.

Can you dive in Malta all year round?
Yes. Summer offers warm, clear waters, while winter delivers top visibility and fewer divers. Some dive centres scale back in winter, but with the right exposure suit you can dive comfortably 12 months a year.

Which month is best for diving in Malta?
September is often considered ideal: warm sea temperatures (around 26°C), excellent visibility, and fewer tourists than peak summer. For quieter dives with top clarity, winter months are underrated but rewarding.

Is diving in Malta expensive?
Prices are competitive compared to other Mediterranean destinations. A guided shore dive typically costs €40–60, while full PADI Open Water courses range from €350–450. Equipment rental adds around €20–30 per day. Multi-dive packages can reduce overall costs.

Are Malta’s wreck dives safe for beginners?
Some wrecks, like the P29 at Cirkewwa, are shallow enough for entry-level divers. Others, such as HMS Stubborn at 56 metres, require advanced technical skills. Always check depth, penetration rules, and current conditions with your dive centre.

Is Malta good for underwater photography?
Yes. High visibility, varied marine life, and dramatic topography like arches, caves, and wrecks make Malta excellent for photography. Personally, we’ve found autumn to be best for colour contrasts and fewer suspended particles in the water.

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