Scuba Diving in Malta

Explore 176 dive sites and 62 dive centres in Malta. Conditions, marine life, and the best time to dive.

Malta Diving at a Glance

4 dive regions, 176 dive sites, 62 dive centres, 70 marine species recorded.

Travel Advisories for Malta

UK FCDO: See travel advice before travelling.

Best Time to Dive in Malta

The best months to dive in Malta are July, August, September, based on water temperature, visibility, wave conditions, and currents.

Month-by-Month Diving Conditions

  • January: Great, water 16.5°C, current 5 cm/s
  • February: Great, water 15.9°C, current 6.5 cm/s
  • March: Great, water 15.8°C, current 3.2 cm/s
  • April: Great, water 16.3°C, current 3 cm/s
  • May: Great, water 18°C, current 1.4 cm/s
  • June: Great, water 20.8°C, current 3.2 cm/s
  • July: Great, water 23.3°C, current 7.1 cm/s
  • August: Great, water 24.2°C, current 9.9 cm/s
  • September: Great, water 23.7°C, current 8.8 cm/s
  • October: Great, water 22°C, current 7.9 cm/s
  • November: Great, water 20.3°C, current 7.7 cm/s
  • December: Great, water 18.3°C, current 5.2 cm/s

Recommended Packing List for Malta

Based on average water temperature of 19.6°C, currents 6 cm/s.

  • Wetsuit (3-5mm) - comfortable for 20°C water
  • Mask - essential for every dive
  • Fins
  • BCD - buoyancy compensator
  • Regulator - your most safety-critical piece of gear
  • Dive Computer - tracks depth, time, and NDL
  • Surface Marker Buoy (SMB) - essential for boat pickups
  • Dive Torch - useful for crevices and colour at depth
  • Underwater Camera - capture your diving memories

Dive Regions

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time of year to go scuba diving in Malta for good weather and water conditions?
For excellent weather and the warmest water conditions, the best time to go scuba diving in Malta is from June to September. During these months, water temperatures range from a pleasant 21°C to 24°C, peaking in August and September. The crystal-clear Mediterranean waters offer superb visibility year-round, making it an ideal destination for divers looking for comfortable conditions. You can find more details on seasonal conditions on our When to Dive page.
What are the visa and medical requirements for scuba divers visiting Malta?
The provided data context does not include specific information regarding visa or medical requirements for scuba divers visiting Malta. We recommend checking official government travel advisories or consulting with your local Maltese embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date visa information. For medical requirements, it's always wise to consult with your doctor before any diving trip, especially if you have pre-existing medical conditions.
What kind of marine life and underwater creatures can divers expect to see in Malta?
While the provided data highlights Malta's crystal-clear Mediterranean waters, dramatic caverns, and excellent wreck diving, it does not specify particular marine life or underwater creatures. Divers can generally expect to encounter typical Mediterranean species within these diverse environments. For a comprehensive list of potential sightings, we encourage you to explore our wildlife database.
Are Malta's dive sites suitable for beginner divers, or are they mostly for experienced divers?
With 177 dive sites and crystal-clear Mediterranean waters, Malta offers a diverse range of diving experiences suitable for various certification levels. While renowned sites like the Blue Hole and various wrecks can appeal to experienced divers, the generally excellent conditions mean there are likely many sites accessible and enjoyable for beginners too. The presence of 62 dive centres also suggests a robust infrastructure to support divers of all skill levels.
What is the average cost of scuba diving in Malta, including equipment rental and guided dives?
The provided data context does not include information on the average cost of scuba diving in Malta, including equipment rental and guided dives. Prices can vary significantly based on the dive centre, package deals, and the specific type of diving experience. For general information on dive gear, you can visit our equipment section.
What are the most popular or must-visit dive sites and regions in Malta, Gozo, and Comino?
Malta boasts several world-renowned dive sites and regions that are a must-visit for any diver. Key highlights include the iconic Blue Hole in Gozo, the historic HMS Maori wreck, and the unique Inland Sea, also located in Gozo. The sub-regions of Comino with 76 sites and Gozo with 69 sites offer the highest concentration of diving opportunities.
What are the typical water temperatures and underwater visibility like when diving in Malta?
When diving in Malta, you can expect typical water temperatures ranging from a cooler 16°C in winter (February-April) to a warm 24°C in summer (August-September). The Mediterranean waters are consistently crystal-clear, offering excellent underwater visibility throughout the year. This clarity, combined with comfortable temperatures for much of the year, makes Malta a fantastic diving destination. For more seasonal details, check our When to Dive guide.
How many shipwrecks are there to dive in Malta, and are they accessible to all certification levels?
Malta is renowned for its excellent wreck diving, with the HMS Maori wreck being a world-renowned site. While the data highlights the quality of wreck diving, it does not specify the total number of shipwrecks available to explore. Furthermore, information regarding the accessibility of these wrecks for all certification levels is not provided, though generally, wreck diving can range from shallow, accessible sites to deeper, more advanced dives. You can explore more about diving in Malta on our country page.