Slack Water
Malta · Mediterranean

Malta and Gozo

Clear Mediterranean water, wrecks and limestone caverns you can reach from the shore.

At a glance

Best months
June to October
Water
15–26°CAbout 15°C in winter (semi-dry or drysuit) to 26°C in August
Visibility
20–40 m
Current
MildMostly mild
Certification
Open WaterMinimum Open Water
How you dive
Land-based

When to go

June to October; September and October are often the best balance.

Overview

Malta and its smaller sister island Gozo, in the middle of the Mediterranean, offer some of Europe's best warm-season diving. The water is very clear, the limestone coast is full of caverns, arches and swim-throughs, and there are many wrecks, from small boats to purpose-sunk ferries.

Much of the diving is from the shore, which makes it flexible and good value. Currents are generally mild. Marine life is typical of the Mediterranean rather than tropical, and the scenery is the main draw.

The best time is June to October, when the water is 22 to 26°C. September and October keep the summer warmth with fewer crowds. Diving continues in winter, but the water falls to about 15°C and rough weather can close sites.

Who it suits

Open Water friendly. Deeper wrecks and caverns need Advanced certification and the right training.

What you'll see

WrecksLimestone caverns and archesExcellent visibilityShore diving

Know the risks

  • Cold water from December to April
  • Rough weather can close sites
  • Overhead environments need proper training

Sources

Last reviewed 2026-10. Where sources disagree we use the more conservative range.