Diving in Malta
Including Cirkewwa and Munxar Reef and Drop-off. On the map.
The vibe
Diving off Malta feels like exploring a submerged museum, with caves and shipwrecks that tell stories of centuries. Warm water from June through September makes long bottom times comfortable, while winter brings calmer seas for wreck penetrations. Dive centres run organized briefings and boat trips, so the experience is fairly structured but still offers moments of solitary underwater wandering.
a dive centre registration and a small park ticket
Cirkewwa, Malta
Mellieha
Ed Webster / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 2.0)
Cirkewwa is one of Malta's premier shore diving locations, featuring dramatic rocky reefs, arches, and the intentionally scuttled Patrol Boat P31 wreck. Divers explore vibrant marine life, swim-throughs, and steep drop-offs in crystal-clear Mediterranean waters. It is an ideal spot for both recreational divers and underwater photographers.
Access. Easily accessible from shore via well-paved entry points with nearby parking. Numerous local dive shops in Mellieha and St. Paul's Bay provide equipment rental, guided tours, and tank fills.
Notes. Depths range from 10m to 25m. Conditions are generally calm in summer, though winter winds can create surface chop. No marine park fees.
Munxar Reef and Drop-off, Malta
Marsascala
Pacopac / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Munxar Reef on Malta's southern coast offers dramatic underwater topography featuring extensive cave systems, boulders, and steep wall drop-offs into the open sea. The site is known for rich pelagic sightings, barracuda, and undisturbed marine life due to its exposed, rugged location.
Access. Typically accessed via boat charters from Marsascala or Valletta-area dive bases, as shore access involves a challenging trek.
Notes. Depths reach 40m+. Exposed to southern winds and currents, making it ideal for experienced divers during calm weather windows.