Top Dive Sites

Blue Hole

Description: The Blue Hole is perhaps the most iconic dive site in Gozo. This natural rock formation starts from a surface pool and leads divers through an impressive archway into the open sea. The site provides a dramatic underwater landscape with sheer walls, caves, and an abundance of marine life.

Marine Species: Groupers, amberjacks, moray eels, octopus, and various nudibranchs are common. During certain times of the year, you might also spot barracuda and tuna in deeper waters.

Unique Encounters: The Blue Hole offers unique archways and tunnels formed by volcanic activity, creating a fascinating playground for divers. There’s also a potential for encountering larger pelagic species.

Photography: With spectacular visibility and dramatic underwater topography, photographers will find plenty of opportunities. The varying light conditions in the archways and caves, combined with the vibrant marine life, make for fantastic shots.

Suitability: This site is suitable for intermediate to advanced divers due to its depth and potential for currents. Technical divers also frequent the site, exploring the deeper sections and complex cavern systems.

Inland Sea

Description: The Inland Sea dive starts from a secluded lagoon connected to the Mediterranean Sea by a 100-meter-long tunnel. This site offers a unique diving experience, transitioning from the calm, shallow waters of the lagoon to the open sea through a stunning limestone tunnel.

Marine Species: Expect to see seahorses, parrotfish, bream, and scorpionfish within the calm lagoon waters. Once in the open sea, sightings of larger species like barracudas and groupers are common.

Unique Encounters: The transition from the lagoon through the tunnel to the open sea is both exhilarating and picturesque. Divers often report stunning light play within the tunnel, especially on sunny days.

Photography: The contrast between the dark tunnel and the bright open sea offers fantastic photography opportunities. Macro photographers will also enjoy the diverse small marine life in the lagoon.

Suitability: This site is suitable for all diver levels. The lagoon’s shallow depths make it accessible for beginners, while the deeper sections beyond the tunnel cater to more experienced divers.

Reqa Point

Description: Reqa Point is a treasure trove for divers interested in geological formations and marine biodiversity. Featuring spectacular drop-offs, caves, and tunnels, the site promises a thrilling underwater adventure.

Marine Species: Look out for parrotfish, vividly colored wrasses, cardinalfish, and the occasional curiosity of a stonefish or scorpionfish hiding among the rocks. Schools of barracudas often patrol the deeper blue.

Unique Encounters: The site is known for its spectacular chimney—a vertical swim-through that rises from around 30 meters to 7 meters. This provides an exhilarating ascent with beautiful light effects as you ascend.

Photography: The varied terrain, combined with excellent visibility, makes Reqa Point a photographer’s dream. The chimney, in particular, offers a unique photographic challenge and reward.

Suitability: It’s best for intermediate to advanced divers due to the site’s depth and topography. The currents here can be challenging, adding an extra layer of excitement for the more seasoned diver.

Considerations for Each Dive Site

Water Temperature: When diving in Gozo, you’ll generally experience water temperatures ranging from 15°C (59°F) in the winter, to a warm 26°C (79°F) in the summer. It’s ideal for wearing a thicker wetsuit during the cooler months, while a lighter wetsuit or even a shorty can suffice during the summer.

Visibility: Gozo is renowned for its exceptional underwater visibility, often extending beyond 30 meters (98 feet). However, visibility can fluctuate based on weather conditions, particularly after storms. Overall, the consistently clear waters provide splendid conditions for divers year-round.

Currents and Tides: Currents around Gozo are typically mild, making it a haven for relaxed diving. Nonetheless, it’s prudent to check local conditions as some sites can experience stronger currents, especially those exposed to prevailing winds. Tidal ranges are modest but it’s essential to plan dives according to tide tables to maximize safety.

Safety Tips:

• Check Weather Reports: Always review local weather and sea conditions before heading out.
• Surface Marker Buoys (SMBs): Deploying an SMB can help maintain safety, especially in busier dive sites.
• Guided Dives: Consider diving with a local guide to navigate complex sites and enhance safety.
• Hydration: Stay well-hydrated, especially during the heated summer season.
• Buddy System: Maintain constant communication and never dive alone.
• Equipment Check: Thoroughly inspect your gear before diving, paying special attention to regulators and buoyancy control devices (BCDs).
• Emergency Protocols: Familiarize yourself with local emergency procedures and the nearest recompression chambers.

Regulations: In Gozo, diving regulations are enforced to preserve the marine environment and ensure diver safety. Key regulations include:

• Marine Protected Areas: Certain zones are protected; it’s crucial to know and respect these boundaries to preserve marine life.
• Fishing Restrictions: Spearfishing and the collection of marine organisms are prohibited in many areas.
• Certification Requirements: Proof of certification is mandatory, and diving below your certification level is discouraged.
• Dive Limits: Ensure not to exceed no-deco limits and be wary of depth restrictions based on your certification level.
• Permits: Some dive sites, especially protected ones, require permits. Arranging these through local dive shops is recommended.
• Waste Disposal: Strict policies against littering must be adhered to; always bring your trash back to shore.