The waves that lap the shores of Malta hide a secret. On the beach, the bright corals, and shoals of silvery fish are everything you could want from a Mediterranean island paradise. Step into the crystal water, however, and
you will find a whole other world waiting to be discovered.
With 300 days of sun and waters that rarely drop below 16°C, even in winter, Malta is primed for seaside fun all year long. From snorkelling and scuba diving to sailing in luxury, there’s always something new to discover around the three islands (Malta, Gozo and Comino) that constitute the Maltese archipelago.
Dive In
Repeatedly voted the second-best diving destination in the world by Diver Magazine, each of Malta’s professionally accredited dive centres are ready to take on anyone, (over the age of ten), from total beginners wanting to get their PADI licence to seasoned divers looking for their best dive yet. There are also expert free diving instructors if you’d rather explore untethered.
The high season is from May to October, but the sheer number of experiences available make diving enjoyable all year round. If it’s windy on one side of the island, just pop over to the other side for a taste of Malta’s famously clear waters.
At more than 100 dive sites you can discover the history of countless sunken ships, (a dozen of which are over 50m deep), and war-era plane wrecks, or marvel at the unique seascape scattered with natural arches, inland seas and a myriad of marine life.
One of the most highly recommended sights lies on the north tip of the island of Malta. Set against the dramatic cliffs of the northern coast, Ċirkewwa harbour plays host to four separate dive-sites. Its wealth of caves, arches, and wrecks make it perfect for absolute beginners and technical divers alike. Approaching the wreck of Tugboat Rozi, it will quickly become clear that you are a guest in the home of the Mediterranean’s diverse sea-life. A house, nursery and feeding ground to countless species, you can spot octopi, stingrays, or even the two resident moray eels who call the pipes of the almost intact wreck home.
Arrive in Style
Arriving into Valletta, Malta’s capital city, by cruise ship is an experience like no other. As the bastions of the Grand Harbour rise into view you will be enveloped by a city of history and culture. The naturally formed harbour invites you in for a day of exploration and fun, with several one day itineraries on offer for you as you disembark.
If you want to delve deeper into the capital, then head just 10 minutes from the harbour to the centre. Once there, you can get lost in the sun-kissed streets and beautiful architecture. Some unmissable sights are the St. John’s Co-Cathedral, which houses Caravaggio’s Beheading of Saint John the Baptist, as well as the National Museum of Archaeology.
Paddle Away
You can kayak or canoe almost 365 days a year in Malta. Such is the blessing of 300 days of sun and an abundance of paddle routes. With rentals available on most beaches, it’s the perfect way to experience the wonders of the Maltese coast.
Either intrepidly explore on your own or join a tour to discover the secrets and hidden gems of Gozo’s beaches and Malta’s caves. You also have the chance to experience the majesty of the Grand Harbour from an unbeatably unique perspective.
A few of the most spectacular routes include; Gozo to Comino, through Hondoq Bay and the Blue Lagoon; Mellieħa to Malta’s north-western tip; from Popeye Village to the Coral Lagoon; or around St. Paul’s Bay.
For the Thrill Seekers
For a taste of life in the fast lane, jet skiing is a popular adventure pastime in Malta. You can ride around each of the islands in some of the archipelago’s most beautiful locations, including Golden Bay, Mellieħa Bay and Paradise Bay. The splash of the water and the wind in your hair will cool you on a Mediterranean summer’s day whilst you ride the waves of the dramatic coastline.
If you hire a jet ski for a few hours, it’s likely that you’ll be restricted to a designated area to catch your thrills and spills in, but a favourite way to experience jet skiing is on a jet ski safari. On a safari, a guide will uncover all of the marine and geological spectacles of the islands, interspersed with the excitement of a high-speed ocean adventure.
Take to the Skies
Parasailing is one of the most thrilling yet relaxing water-based activities out there. With no experience needed you can be whisked several hundred feet in the air for breath-taking views of the scenery below. And the views don’t get much more stunning than in Malta.
See exactly how gold Golden Bay is or people watch over the lively St. George’s Bay. It is an unparalleled perspective of the ancient archipelago and although they say an island can only be called such when viewed from the sea, perhaps you can only truly experience an archipelago from the air.
Sail into the Sunset
To experience Malta in the lap of luxury, take an excursion on an island cruise or charter a yacht for your trip. This is one of the most spectacular ways to soak in the beauty of the islands.
You can experience the geological marvels of the coastline as well as the ‘Three Cities’ all while sampling local delicacies on deck. The cities, Bormla, L-Isla, and Il-Birgu, create a story book of Malta’s history. Largely unvisited, their harbour inlets paint portraits of Phoenician times through to the lives of the Knights of St. John. Older than Valletta, they are a spectacular addition you may never have seen if you hadn’t experienced sailing in Malta.
To take the plunge, head to www.VisitMalta.com. Or if you prefer to stay on dry land, check out our guide to adventuring above the waves here.