Malta’s Magnetic Appeal for Divers

For in-the-know divers and those looking to be surprised by something new, Malta holds a distinguished place among Europe’s best diving destinations.

Surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea south of Sicily, the Maltese archipelago consists of three islands — Malta, Gozo and Comino. Each offers unique adventures for divers, both underwater and above the surface.

Wreck Diving Highlights

For wreck divers and those who love caves and caverns, Malta is legendary. And with visibility that regularly reaches 100 feet, these islands are a favorite among underwater photographers as well.

The Um El Faroud

One of the most iconic wrecks is the Um El Faroud, a Libyan oil tanker scuttled off Malta’s south coast in 1998 after a tragic dockyard accident. Upright in about 130 feet of water, the wreck’s uppermost sections are accessible at just 60 feet, with shoals of barracuda and amberjack often seen hunting in the turquoise waters. Divers sometimes encounter dolphins here, too.

Comino’s P31

Comino’s signature wreck dive is the P31, a former minesweeper-turned-patrol boat used by the German navy and later the Armed Forces of Malta. The wreck’s superstructure can be explored in 75 feet of water, while trained divers venture deeper to penetrate interior cabins. Look for octopus and moray eels in the nooks and crannies, and stingrays patrolling the sandy seabed.

On almost every wreck in Malta, the nation’s wartime role and maritime history can be felt. Some wrecks, including the HMS Stubborn — a World War II-era submarine — require special permits through the country’s Underwater Cultural Heritage Unit. Authorized dive centers can help visitors obtain them.

Caves, Caverns and Crystal-Clear Wonders

Caves and caverns are a major lure in these crystal-clear waters, with Gozo’s Blue Hole — a sinkhole with underwater archways illuminated by shafts of light — a photographer’s dream.

The Blue Hole and Cathedral Cave, Gozo

Another Gozo favorite is Cathedral Cave, cut into rocks at the mouth of the Ghasri Valley. The waters within glow a magical shade of blue as divers navigate swim-throughs and domes.

Comino’s Santa Maria Caves

Five interconnected caves are the draw on Comino, where the Santa Maria Caves offer adventures for divers and snorkelers alike. Look for schools of resident silver bream dazzling in the interplay of blue light and inky darkness.

Culture and Cuisine Above the Surface

Once you’ve toweled off for the day, Malta’s rich cultural offerings beckon in Valletta’s warren of narrow streets, lined with shops and cafés. The island’s fortified capital city has been awarded UNESCO World Heritage status, with everything from the 16th-century Grand Master’s Palace to the wondrous Neolithic-era burial complex, the Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum, to explore.

You’ll tempt your taste buds in Malta, too, where eating well is as important as diving well. The islands’ cuisine borrows from cultures across the Mediterranean, with Sicilian, Provençal and North African influences in the mix to delicious effect. You can taste the country’s unique terroir in its outstanding wines, whether you prefer to toast your arrival with a crisp white or a medium-bodied red.

Explore Further

Divers with a love of adventure sports will find plenty to enjoy at the surface level, too. The islands’ diverse terrain lends itself naturally to mountain biking, rock climbing, hiking, kayaking and even windfoiling — one of Malta’s fastest-growing water sports.

There’s nothing quite like harnessing the wind aboard a sailboat charter for a different view of Malta’s coastline, lined with spectacular sea caves, golden beaches and dramatic fortresses that hug the shore.

2026 Readers Choice Awards

Malta won a total of eight awards, including Cave/Cavern/Grotto Diving, Wreck Diving, Shore Diving, Best Value, Best Overall, Beginner Diving, Advanced Diving and Wall Diving.

Plan Your Dive Trip:

Contact Info

VisitMalta.com

[email protected]

+356 2291 5000