Why dive in Malta?
At first glance, Malta captivates visitors with its golden cliffs, stone-paved streets, and thousand-year history. But it is beneath the surface that the island reveals its true treasure: crystal-clear blue waters, fascinating shipwrecks, and a surprisingly rich underwater life.
Easy to reach from Europe and accessible to both beginner and experienced divers, Malta has become a European diving hotspot.
The little extra? You can dive there all year round!
Perfect conditions for diving
Water temperature
Summer (June to October) : 24 to 28°C
Spring & fall: 18 to 22°C
Winter : 15 à 17°C (always clear, but a waterproof suit is recommended)
Visibility
Visibility is often exceptional and can reach 30 to 40 m.
Ideal season: May to October
The water is warm, conditions are calm, and the light highlights the underwater relief. The water temperature is between 20 and 28°C and visibility is optimal (40m).
Malta's legendary shipwrecks
Malta is a dream destination for wreck enthusiasts, whether they are historical wrecks or deliberately sunk for diving.
They have become veritable artificial reefs, promoting the creation of unique marine ecosystems. Over time, these metal and wooden structures have been colonized by a wide variety of marine fauna and flora, offering a fascinating spectacle for divers.
Some must-see sites:
The P29 (Cirkewwa) :
former Maltese patrol boat, colonised by anemones, squid and rays. Easy to access from the shore. Depth: 18 m from the mast to 35 m.
The Rozi (Cirkewwa) :
iconic tugboat, easily accessible from the shore and photogenic (= large schools of fish around the wreck). Depth: 36 m.
Um El Faroud (Zurrieq) :
accessible from the shore, this 110-metre oil tanker is undoubtedly Malta’s most famous wreck. Impressive in size, it is mainly colonised by squid and barracuda. Depth: 20-35 m.
The Bristol Beaufighter (St Julian’s) :
a plane from the Second World War, this wreck is intended for experienced divers. Depth: 38 m.
The HMS Maori (La Valette) :
a destroyer is accessible from the shore. The site is rich in marine life, with moray eels, rays, cuttlefish and sars. Depth: 17m.
Underwater life and landscapes
The Maltese seabed is carved with caves, arches and tunnels, often bathed in blue light.
In terms of wildlife, you may encounter:
- Groupers, moray eels, barracudas, cuttlefish, multicoloured nudibranchs,
- and sometimes rays or seahorses in sandy areas.
Night divers will be delighted to observe the nocturnal life — curious octopuses, squids and sleeping parrotfish.
Where to dive?
- Malta (main island): easy to access, varied sites and professional clubs.
- Gozo: wilder, its sites such as the Blue Hole and Inland Sea are among the most beautiful in Europe.
- Comino: turquoise waters and picture-postcard scenery — perfect for light diving or snorkelling.
Practical advice
- Required level: most dives are accessible to Open Water divers. Some deep wrecks require Advanced certification.
- Equipment: local centres are very well equipped, so you can travel light.
- Other activities: explore megalithic temples, stroll around Mdina, take a cruise in the Grand Harbour — perfect for rounding off your stay.
Conclusion
Malta is the Mediterranean at its clearest, a paradise for underwater photographers, wreck explorers and those who want to dive without leaving Europe.
Perfect conditions, a friendly atmosphere and unexpected underwater riches — everything you need for an unforgettable diving holiday.
=> Would you like to go diving in Malta?
Discover our partner diving centre: Plongée Malte. A French diving centre offering both diving lessons and exploration dives. This centre is located in St Paul’s Bay, in the north-east of the island of Malta.