Justin Carmack – Updated January 31, 2020
Malta is an archipelago located in the Mediterranean between Sicily and northern Africa. A country with a rich history, Malta is known for its temples, fortresses, and an impressive collection of burial chambers dating back to 4000BC. But what many don’t know, is that Malta also offers some of the best diving in Europe.
MALTA DIVING
While the landmarks and historical sites are fascinating to see, visitors should know that with over 200 dive sites, scuba diving Malta is considered to be some of the best in the Europe, and its even considered as some of the best scuba diving in the world.
Diving in Malta is available around three islands: Malta, Gozo, and Comino. This guide will highlight the best dive sites throughout the Maltese islands; including how to get there, what you can expect to see, where to stay, and other helpful tips.
Whether you have time to dive as many as possible, or can only have time for a few few, this article will act as your guide to help you get the most out of scuba diving Malta.
– NOTE: The locations on this list are indeed the best in the country, but are not ranked in any specific order. Number 3 might be just as good as number 1. You get to decide.
Where to Dive in Malta
Gozo
Gozo may be a small island, but it has plenty of dive sites. Shipwrecks, colorful reefs, and a variety of marine life, has given Gozo the title of being one of the top diving areas in the Mediterranean.
Comino
While this island may only be 3.5 square kilometres in area, the waters off it’s shores offer up some of the best scuba diving in Malta. Especially for those interested in cave diving.
Malta Island
The largest island in the Maltese archipelago is Malta, also sometimes called Valletta (which is also the name of the capital) to help distinguish the island itself from the name of the county.
BEST TIME TO DIVE
Scuba Diving in Malta is available year round; the waters never get too cold, and visibility is almost always good. The most popular months to dive are between June and September when the water temperature can reach up to 28C.
However, many recommend visiting later in September, or early October when the dive sites are less busy, but the water temperatures are still relatively warm. April or May, ahead of the main tourist season, are also good months to visit.
It may be small in size, but for those looking to scuba dive in Malta, the selection of dive spots throughout these three main islands is incredible.
Whether your interests lie in cave dives, reefs and walls, or wrecks; Malta’s dive sites truly do have something for everyone. With over 200 dive sites, clear waters, warm water temperatures, and the possibility of diving year-round; it’s no wonder why scuba diving Malta is considered to be some of the best in the world.
HIGHLIGHTS OF MALTA
For divers in Europe, the diving is what is the most interesting about Malta. It has some of the best diving in the Mediterranean, as well as all of Europe, and is diveable year round. That said, the land attractions and history and architecture around the country also make it even more amazing.
The vibe is a mixture of Italy, Greece and Northern Africa, and I have never heard of someone not falling in love with Malta during a visit.
There are a few beaches in Malta you can visit, which is no surprise, and plenty more to see and do.
To see our full list, read our guide of Top Things to do in Malta.
GEOGRAPHY
Malta is one of the smallest countries in Europe with only 316 km² (122 sq mi) and a population of under 450,000 is located in the Mediterranean Sea. It comprises 3 islands namely Malta, Gozo, and Comino of which Malta is the largest. Much of the past of this place is visible today. Visit their open-air museum, or enjoy rock climbing, scuba diving, or simply just laze under the sun.
Capital city of Malta: Valletta
Closest neighbors to Malta: Closest neighbors of Malta are Italy, Tunisia, and Libya
Best times to visit Malta: May is the sunny holiday just before the peak season. Weather is warm and the crowds are a bit lighter. Peak season is June and July. If you want a cooler vacation, September and October is the best time.
Visa requirements for Malta: No visa is required to travel Malta but a passport valid for 3 months and a return ticket for the US, Canada, and Australia nationals should be obtained.
Currency of Malta: Euro (€) (EUR) is the currency of Malta.
Official Language of Malta: Maltese is the official language of Malta.
UNESCO World Heritage sites in Malta
There are 3 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Malta and 7 on their tentative list.
Cultural (3)
- City of Valletta (1980)
- Megalithic Temples of Malta (1980, 1992)
- Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum (1980)
