Marsaskala
Marsaskala, a picturesque fishing village on Malta's southeastern coast, offers a unique and accessible diving experience. It's particularly renowned for its collection of spectacular wreck dives, including several scuttled ships that now serve as thriving artificial reefs. The area is characterized by easy shore access to its main sites, making it a convenient base for divers who prefer to explore at their own pace. Unlike the busier northern dive hubs, Marsaskala provides a more tranquil atmosphere while still delivering world-class underwater adventures with dramatic underwater topography and historical artifacts.
Diving conditions around Marsaskala are typically excellent, with outstanding visibility often exceeding 30 meters and generally calm seas, especially from spring to autumn. The area caters to all certification levels, from beginners exploring shallow bays to technical divers penetrating the deeper wrecks. With its combination of famous wrecks, diverse marine life, and clear, warm Mediterranean waters, Marsaskala is a must-visit destination for any diver seeking a blend of history, adventure, and the laid-back charm of a traditional Maltese village.
Top Sites
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the most popular dive site in Marsaskala, Malta?
The twin tugboat wrecks, Tugboat St. Michael and Tugboat 10, are the most popular sites in Marsaskala, Malta. Scuttled together at Żonqor Point, they create a fantastic dual-wreck dive. They are popular because they sit at a manageable depth of around 22 meters, are easily accessible from the shore, and teem with marine life. Their close proximity allows divers to explore both wrecks in a single, memorable dive, offering great value and an exciting underwater experience.
What are the good and less popular dive sites in Marsaskala, Malta?
The famous sites are the Tugboat St. Michael and Tugboat 10 wrecks. For a less-crowded dive in Marsaskala, Malta, explore the nearby reefs and swim-throughs around Żonqor Point. These shallow areas offer beautiful natural topography, small caves, and abundant marine life like octopus and moray eels. They provide a fantastic alternative to the popular wrecks and are perfect for a second dive or for photographers looking for interesting light and macro subjects away from the main attractions.
What water temperature is it like throughout the year diving in Marsaskala, Malta?
Water temperatures in Marsaskala, Malta vary seasonally. In winter (Dec-Feb), it drops to 15-16°C. It warms in spring (Mar-May) from 16-20°C. Summer (Jun-Aug) is the warmest, reaching a peak of 26-28°C. In autumn (Sep-Nov), the water remains pleasantly warm, gradually cooling from 25°C down to 20°C. These temperatures allow for year-round diving, though the required thermal protection changes significantly through the year.
When is the best time to visit Marsaskala, Malta?
The best time to dive in Marsaskala, Malta is from May to October. During these months, you'll experience the warmest water temperatures (20-28°C), consistently sunny weather, and calm sea conditions. This period offers the most comfortable diving and best surface intervals. While diving is possible year-round, the winter months bring cooler water and air temperatures, along with a higher chance of wind and rougher seas which can affect shore entry.
What's the visibility like during the dive season in Marsaskala, Malta?
Underwater visibility in Marsaskala, Malta is generally excellent, a key feature of diving across the Maltese islands. During the main dive season from spring to autumn, you can typically expect visibility ranging from 20 to 40 meters. It is often at its best during calm, sunny days. Winter storms can temporarily reduce visibility near the shore, but the water's clarity usually returns quickly. The clear, deep blue water makes for stunning underwater photography.
Are there any seasonal migrations or special events (e.g., manta rays, whale sharks) in Marsaskala, Malta?
There are no large-scale migrations like whale sharks or manta rays in Marsaskala, Malta. However, seasonal changes bring different marine life encounters. In late spring you see more breeding activity among fish. During autumn, you might spot larger pelagic species like amberjack and tuna hunting schools of smaller fish closer to shore. The main attraction remains the resident marine life on the wrecks and reefs, which is abundant year-round.
What marine life can I expect to see in Marsaskala, Malta?
In Marsaskala, Malta, expect a rich variety of Mediterranean marine life. The wrecks host schools of damselfish and chromis. Look for scorpionfish, moray eels, and octopus in crevices. You'll commonly see parrotfish, wrasse, sea bream, and groupers. Nudibranchs are abundant for macro lovers. On sandy patches, you might spot flying gurnards or small rays. Lucky divers might see passing amberjacks or barracuda.
What thickness wetsuit should I wear in Marsaskala, Malta?
For summer diving (June-Sept) in 25-28°C water, a 3mm to 5mm shorty or full suit is sufficient. In the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn (Apr-May, Oct-Nov), with water at 17-22°C, a 5mm or 7mm full wetsuit is recommended. For winter diving in Marsaskala, Malta (Dec-Mar) in water around 15-16°C, a 7mm semi-dry or a drysuit is essential for comfort and warmth.
How do I get to Marsaskala, Malta?
To get to Marsaskala, Malta, fly into Malta International Airport (MLA). From the airport, Marsaskala is a short 15-20 minute drive away. You can easily rent a car, take a taxi, or use a ride-sharing service. Public buses also connect the airport to Marsaskala, offering a very affordable but slower alternative. Most local dive centers can also arrange airport transfers for you upon request.
Should I book a liveaboard or stay on shore in Marsaskala, Malta?
Shore-based diving is the standard and most practical option for Marsaskala, Malta. The main dive sites, including the famous tugboat wrecks, are easily accessible from the shore. Staying in a local hotel or apartment allows you to enjoy the town's atmosphere. There are no liveaboards that operate exclusively within Marsaskala, as Malta's compact size makes shore-based day trips to all the islands' dive sites, including Gozo and Comino, very efficient.