With diving tourism to the islands having increased by 20% in five years, and almost half of British divers having explored its underwater world, there’s no doubt that Malta ranks highly on most diver’s holiday requests.
Whether newly qualified or an old hand, Malta and Gozo’s varying depths, diverse sites and striking underwater landscapes offer something new for all abilities. For those most attracted to metal, Malta’s well-deserved wreck reputation will not let them down. Advanced and technical divers will find much to explore at depth, including the Rozi and P29 which rest around 30 – 40 metres, and the historical WWII wreck of the Bristol Blenheim Bomber; one of only five known wrecks of its kind. Those with less experience can explore the shallower but equally fascinating wreck of the Lybian Um El Faroud, and HMS Maori which lies at just 11 – 15 metres.
For divers who are keen to advance and progress their skills, Gozo is home to a range of exciting dive sites for all abilities, most boasting fascinating tunnels, overhangs and swim-throughs to explore. The Blue Hole, located in front of the much-photographed Azure Window, is Gozo’s most famous dive site and reportedly a favourite of Jacques Cousteau. Further north, the stunning Cathedral Cave can be entered at just 5m and leads through to a huge domed vault, where divers can surface. Although there are few fish in the cave, the walls are covered in delicate corals, hydroids, sponges and golden zoanthids. Be sure to take your camera as this is surely one of the most photogenic dives in all Malta.
Seven nights’ self-catering at the Sands Apartments in Malta with Regaldive cost from £340 per person. The price includes flights, transfers and accommodation. Seven days unlimited and unguided shore diving costs from £75 per person to include air tanks, weights and belt.
Seven nights’ at St Patricks Hotel in Gozo with Regaldive cost from £447 per person. The price includes flights, transfers and B&B accommodation. Six days unlimited and unguided shore diving costs from £79 per person, to include air tanks, weights and belt.
For further information, or to book, visit www.regaldive.co.uk or call 01353 659 999.
