Anchor Bay (Popeye Village)

About this dive site

This dive site is located in Anchor Bay, near Mellieha on Malta's northwest coast. This sheltered bay is renowned for its association with the film set of Popeye Village and offers a variety of diving experiences suitable for beginners. The maximum depth reaches approximately 12 meters, while average depths are around 6 meters. Shore access is easy via a concrete jetty. Anchor Bay’s appeal extends beyond diving; it's also a popular spot for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. The dive site features several key areas: a large anchor and its chain, a beautiful cave known as Scorpion Cave, a varied reef teeming with marine life, and a shallow training area. A boat dive is available to the wreck of MV Scotscraig, located approximately 500 meters northwest of Anchor Bay. Visibility can be variable, often poor in bad weather; currents should also be considered. Scorpion Cave presents a particularly interesting experience, offering a large cavern entrance with an air pocket and a dome-shaped ceiling – ideal for exploration even for less experienced divers. The dive site is frequently dived when the north-easterly wind is strong.