Introduction

Situated between Malta and Gozo in the heart of the Mediterranean Sea, the small yet striking island of Comino is a hidden gem for diving aficionados. Known for its stunning Blue Lagoon and crystal-clear waters, Comino offers an unparalleled diving experience that is both diverse and exhilarating. Its relatively untouched underwater landscapes are a treasure trove of marine wonders, from dramatic underwater caves to historical wrecks.

The dive sites around Comino are particularly special due to their unique combination of geological formations and rich biodiversity. Divers can explore everything from breathtaking underwater caves and tunnels to shipwrecks that tell tales of history. The island’s marine environment is vibrant, teeming with species ranging from colorful reef fish to elusive seahorses and even the occasional encounter with larger pelagic species.

In this article, we’ll guide you through some of the top dive sites around Comino, highlighting their distinctive characteristics, the marine life you can expect to encounter, and why these locations are perfectly suited for divers of different skill levels. We’ll provide a comprehensive overview of what makes each site unique, helping you prepare for an unforgettable underwater adventure in this Mediterranean paradise.

Top Dive Sites

Santa Maria Caves

Description: The Santa Maria Caves are a network of shallow underwater caves and tunnels located on the northern coast of Comino. This site is celebrated for its intricate underwater architecture, offering divers the thrilling experience of exploring caverns and passages illuminated by sunlight filtering through the openings.

Marine Species: Divers can expect to encounter octopuses, moray eels, and various species of bream and wrasse. The caves are also home to numerous crustaceans and nudibranchs, making each dive here a fascinating exploration of microhabitats.

Unique Encounters: The play of light within the caves creates an ethereal atmosphere, highlighting the beauty of the surrounding marine life. One of the unique features of Santa Maria Caves is the possibility to spot seahorses, which occasionally inhabit the area.

Photography: The ambient light and natural formations offer marvelous opportunities for underwater photography. Both wide-angle shots of the cave systems and macro shots of the resident marine life can be captured in stunning detail.

Suitability: The Santa Maria Caves are ideal for divers of all levels due to their shallow depths and tranquil conditions. Novice divers can enjoy the easy exploration, while experienced divers can delve deeper into the interconnected cave system.

Cominotto Reef

Description: Cominotto Reef is a stunning and vibrant dive site located off the neighboring islet of Cominotto, west of Comino. The reef boasts a tapestry of corals and rock formations teeming with life, providing divers with immersive and picturesque underwater scenes.

Marine Species: This site is teeming with life including damselfish, parrotfish, and scorpionfish. Schools of amberjacks and barracudas are commonly sighted, adding a dynamic presence to the reef ecosystem.

Unique Encounters: One of the highlights of diving at Cominotto Reef is encountering the large shoals of barracudas and the occasional eagle rays that gracefully glide by. The diversity of coral species and their vivid colors make this site particularly captivating.

Photography: The clear waters and abundance of marine life provide excellent conditions for both wide-angle and macro photography. Photographers can capture the vibrant coral gardens and the schooling fish that populate the reef.

Suitability: Cominotto Reef caters to divers of varying experience levels. While the shallow reef areas are perfect for beginners, the deeper sections offer more advanced divers the opportunity to explore further.

P31 Wreck

Description: The P31 Wreck is a former patrol boat that has been intentionally scuttled to create an artificial reef. Located off the northwestern tip of Comino at a depth of around 20 meters, this wreck dive provides a fascinating glimpse into a piece of maritime history now serving as a thriving marine habitat.

Marine Species: The wreck is frequented by numerous species including grouper, scorpionfish, and various types of rays. The surrounding waters are often visited by schools of damselfish and the occasional spotted eagle ray.

Unique Encounters: Exploring the P31 Wreck offers the unique experience of swimming through the vessel’s internal compartments. Divers can encounter resident marine life such as congers and nudibranchs amidst the nooks and crannies of the wreck.

Photography: The relatively shallow depth and excellent visibility make the P31 Wreck ideal for underwater photography. Both the structure of the wreck and the marine life it hosts offer plenty of opportunities for captivating shots.

Suitability: This dive site is suitable for all levels, from beginners to advanced divers. The manageable depth allows less experienced divers to explore with ease, while more advanced divers can focus on the intricate details of the wreck.

Considerations for Each Dive Site

Water Temperature: The waters around Comino are comfortably warm, making it an attractive dive destination throughout the year. During the summer months (June to September), water temperatures range from 24°C (75°F) to 28°C (82°F). In the winter (December to February), temperatures can drop to around 15°C (59°F) to 17°C (63°F). Therefore, a 5mm wetsuit is generally recommended during the cooler months, while a 3mm wetsuit is sufficient for the summer.

Visibility: Visibility around Comino is typically excellent, often exceeding 30 meters, particularly in the summer. This clarity enhances the diving experience, allowing divers to fully appreciate the underwater landscapes and marine life. However, factors such as plankton blooms and weather conditions can occasionally reduce visibility, so always check local conditions.

Currents and Tides: The currents around Comino can vary from mild to moderate, depending on the dive site and prevailing weather conditions. Sites like Santa Maria Caves usually have gentle currents, making them ideal for beginners. Conversely, more exposed sites such as Cominotto Reef might experience stronger currents. It’s important to be aware of the local tide schedules and consult with diving guides to ensure safe and optimal diving conditions.

Safety Tips:

• Always dive with a buddy and carry a surface marker buoy (SMB) to ensure safety.
• Exercise caution when exploring caves and wrecks; maintaining good buoyancy control is crucial to avoid injuries and environmental damage.
• Regularly monitor your air supply and adhere to safe diving practices to prevent decompression sickness.
• Be mindful of the weather forecast, as the Mediterranean can experience rapid changes in conditions.
• Ensure that your diving insurance covers all potential incidents related to your diving activities.

Regulations: Diving around Comino is managed by local regulations designed to protect the marine environment. Key regulations include:

• Do not disturb or collect marine life, coral, or artifacts to preserve the natural habitat.
• Avoid feeding fish, as this can disrupt their natural behavior and ecosystem balance.
• Use designated mooring buoys instead of anchoring directly on the reef to prevent damage.
• Follow the instructions and guidelines provided by local dive operators and guides.
• Respect marine protected area boundaries and adhere to any additional restrictions in these zones to safeguard biodiversity.

Wrap Up

Comino may be small in size, but it offers a wealth of diving opportunities that cater to all levels of divers. From the enchanting cave systems of Santa Maria Caves to the vibrant coral reefs of Cominotto Reef and the historical intrigue of the P31 Wreck, Comino’s dive sites promise a variety of underwater adventures. Each site is distinct, offering unique encounters with diverse marine life and stunning underwater landscapes.

Having an understanding of the considerations for diving around Comino—such as water temperature, visibility, currents, and safety—ensures you can make the most of your diving experience. Respecting local regulations not only protects you but also contributes to the preservation of this pristine marine environment, ensuring it remains a haven for future generations of divers.

Whether you’re a seasoned diver seeking new challenges or a novice eager to explore, Comino’s underwater world is a Mediterranean paradise that offers unforgettable experiences. Dive into the crystal-clear waters of Comino and discover a captivating world teeming with life, color, and history.