Location

You need to go to the Dingli Cliffs for this dive.

Access

This site should be accessed by boat or be prepared for a long walk
down steps and rocks. One must be very careful to check that it is
possible to exit before you commence the dive as the tidal movements can be quick and prevent exit from the dive. Care and attention to potential changes in condition is vital for this dive.

Conditions

This site is fairly exposed but is sheltered from easterly winds

Average depth 40-60m
Maximum depth beyond 60m
Average visibility 45m

This dive is spectacular but it involves a climb that is difficult and should be tried by the physically fit only. Along the wall in the dive you will come across an archway and a cave. These are worth a look. In the open water you can see barracuda , jacks , tuna and eagle rays. This site is rarely dived , the vertical walls plummet underwater as far as they soar above you. Large grouper are common as are comber and all the species of wrasse and bream. You must ensure that at the end of the dive you must take your time to rise back to the surface due to the initial depth and pressure
differential.

Location

This site is to the west of Ras Hanzir. This is off the south coast near Mnajdra Temples

Access

The best way to enter this dive is by the long ladder at the site. Be careful of the very slippery rocks due to the algae covering.

Conditions

Well sheltered from the winds so little problems arise at this site.

Average depth 6m
Maximum depth 15m
Average visibilty 12m

This is another site which has become popular with trainees as the
entrance to the dive is shallow and leads to a close cave which is
also shallow. Definitely recommended for either beginners or an easy dive.

 

(C) WRECK UM EL FAROUD

Location

You will find this site 140m off wied iz-zurrieq headland in a
southwesterly direction.

Access

The easiest way is by boat from the shore.

Conditions

This site can be exposed to swells and can have a current in windy
weather.

Average depth 25m
Maximum depth 34m
Average visibility 18m

This vessel was hit and sunk in September 1998, the ill fated Um
El Faroud had previously stayed in the Harbour at Valletta for three
years following a terrible explosion on board that killed nine Maltese dockyard workers. A memorial brass plaque was placed in memory of these workers. At present you will find the ship in an upright position on the seabed. The vessel is an impressive site and a highly recommended dive. The wreck is completely open for easy access but caution should be taken as not yet been made fully safe inside, and should only be attempted with proper training.

Location

You will find this site just off the main boat strip used to access the
Blue Grotto at wied iz-Zurrieq

Access

You can either use the shore or go by boat to access this site.

Conditions

Caution should be taken with this site due to the boats that pass
overhead. Apart from this the site is fairly well sheltered.

Average depth 9m
Maximum depth 30m
Average visibility 25m

Simply follow the cliff wall to the right once you have safely entered the water. From this point you will be able to see the first cave. Here you will find cardinalfish. There is another cave known as the Bell cave or Chimney cave. This cave has three small entrances one of which is fairly easy to negotiate. You will find that the interior walls are covered in sponges , tube worms bryozeans and a few larger peacock worms. The easiest way to exit is to retrace your steps.

Location

This site can be seen from the Blue Grotto area. Is an island off the
south coast.

Access

It is recommended that you take a boat due to the distance involved
to reach the island.

Conditions

Due to being away from the coastline the dive is not sheltered and can suffer from surges and strong currents.

Average depth 25m
Maximum depth Beyond 70m
Average visibility Beyond 30m

It is said that this island used to be used as target practice during
World War II, Filfla is now a National Natural reserve and access is
restricted. Diving can be done only with a special permit and numbers are limited , making this a dive that everyone wants to do. One or two dive centres , including the local BSAC branch , make regular visits. The waters surrounding the dive are littered with armaments , and divers should exercise caution, making sure to stay well away from the munitions.