Malta is an excellent destination for both experienced and novice divers, renowned by European scuba divers as the best diving destination in the Mediterranean.
Aside from the warm, azure blue Mediterranean waters, Malta's colourful history itself provides numerous opportunities to explore wrecks in the coastal waters. With an extensive coastline and three islands to visit (Malta itself, Gozo and Comino) there is a network of caves and reefs that will keep the interest of keen divers for a long time.
Visibility in Maltese waters is very good and generally the seas are calm in the summer months. Experienced divers can choose to explore wrecks from the Second World War and even right back to Roman times. The combination of clear water alongside a mild climate, attractive underwater scenery, a good range of marine life, and a spate of professional diving centres attract an estimated 50,000 divers annually. The diving schools offer every type of course available, and if you're certified to dive, you can dive most sites independently or hook up with a local guide.
In terms of wildlife, there is a plethora of colourful flora and fauna in the waters surrounding the Maltese islands. From dolphins and tuna to moray eel stingrays, groupers and even the occasional octopus!
The best dives are found off the north-west tip of Gozo at Dwejra, an area of geologic faults which has resulted in plenty of interesting submarine features including intriguing caves.
With dives available ranging from 12 metres to 50 metres in depth, there is something for everyone. Beginners can take their PADI course in Malta at one of the dive schools with course rates varying from £280-£360. Individual dives for those already qualified range from £23-£35 and kit can be rented from around £8-£12.
