There’s something special about diving in Malta—a feeling that stays with you long after you’ve surfaced and hung up your gear. For my wife Carson and me, our October trip to this Mediterranean gem wasn’t just about the incredible dive sites. It was a journey filled with connections, both new and old, making every dive richer and more memorable.
A Community Connection Beneath the Waves
Diving brings people together in the most unexpected ways. On this trip, we met up with Brent and Barry from Scuba Adventures. Our paths happened to cross in Malta while traveling for business, and we couldn’t pass up the opportunity to dive together. It’s these shared experiences that remind you just how tight-knit the global diving community can be—especially within groups like Global Underwater Explorers (GUE).
The beauty of GUE diving is the consistency. Whether you’re with close friends or meeting new dive buddies, everyone follows the same training principles and gear configuration. It makes for effortless teamwork, and that was exactly what we experienced diving with the skilled crew at DiveWise.
Malta’s Historic Dive Sites
Malta’s waters are like a living museum, with dive sites that hold layers of history, from ancient times to World War II. The island’s compact geography makes most dives accessible right from shore, meaning you’re never far from an unforgettable adventure.
Here are a few of the standout sites we explored:
P31 Patrol Boat Wreck
This wreck, located off the island of Comino, is perfect for both beginner and experienced divers. The P31 was a patrol boat scuttled to create an artificial reef. It now sits at a manageable depth of 18 meters, making it a favorite for divers looking to hone their buoyancy and navigation skills. It’s also an excellent introduction to wreck diving in Malta’s clear, calm waters.
HMS Maori (WWII Wreck)
One of Malta’s most historically significant wrecks, the HMS Maori, rests in shallow waters near Valletta. This British destroyer was sunk during World War II and offers a fascinating glimpse into the island’s wartime past. Being a shore dive, it’s easily accessible and ideal for both recreational and technical divers. The wreck’s remains are beautifully encrusted with marine life, making it a compelling dive.
Santa Maria Caves
For something a little different, the Santa Maria Caves offer a stunning experience of underwater caverns and tunnels. Located near Comino, these caves provide ample opportunities to practice trim and control while navigating narrow passages. The play of light through the openings creates a breathtaking atmosphere, and the dive is rich with marine life.
Perfect for Skill Development and Tech Divers
Malta’s abundance of shore dives makes it an ideal destination for divers looking to build their skills, particularly in back-mount doubles or drysuit diving. Brent, Barry, and I all dove in doubles on this trip, and it was a fantastic opportunity to refine our setups and practice skills & drills. Water temperatures were perfect for drysuit diving—cool enough to warrant a drysuit but comfortable enough to focus on improving technique & trim. Brent always has a level handy.
The team at DiveWise and TechWise provided top-notch support, accommodating both recreational and technical divers with ease. Whether you’re progressing toward tech certifications or just looking to enhance your control and awareness, you’ll find highly skilled dive masters who understand how to guide and challenge you at the right level.
Beyond Diving: Culture, Cuisine, and Connection
Of course, no dive trip is complete without experiencing the local culture. Malta is a treasure trove of history, art, and incredible food. When we weren’t diving, we made time to explore Valletta’s vibrant streets and enjoy some truly memorable meals.
The Harbour Club: Located in Valletta, this restaurant offers a tasting menu inspired by the city’s historic streets. It’s a celebration of Malta’s diverse cultural heritage, perfect for winding down after a long day of diving.
Grotto Tavern: Set inside an ancient cave that once served as a WWII bunker, the Grotto Tavern delivers both history and flavor. Sharing a meal here feels like stepping back in time, connecting you to centuries of tradition.
Join Us for the Next Adventure
Diving in Malta reminded me how special it is to dive with a close-knit community. Whether you’re aiming to improve your skills, experience world-class dive sites, or form lasting friendships, Scuba Adventures has opportunities for you to grow as a diver.
If you’re ready to take your diving to the next level, sign up for one of our classes or trips. With the right training and team, there’s no limit to what you can explore.
Ready to dive in? Visit Scuba Adventures’ Dive Classes and start planning your next underwater journey today!
