2 Scuba Fun Dives for Certified divers in St Paul’s Bay

Exploring Malta from beneath the surface: a detailed look at the 2 Scuba Fun Dives for Certified Divers in St. Paul’s Bay

If you’re a certified diver looking to make the most of Malta’s crystal-clear waters, this tour might catch your eye. It offers two guided fun dives in St. Paul’s Bay, tailored to your skill level and backed by knowledgeable guides. While it’s not a full-day adventure and doesn’t include equipment rental or hotel transfers, it packs enough to give you a memorable taste of Malta’s submerged scenery.

What really stands out for us are the personalized approach—small groups mean more attention from guides—and the emphasis on safety and sustainability. Plus, after your dives, you’re welcome to relax at the on-site bistro, which is a nice touch. However, it’s worth noting that the tour’s timing and weather conditions can influence your experience, and some travelers have noted delays or equipment issues.

This experience would suit certified divers who want a flexible, half-day adventure in Malta’s waters. It’s especially appealing if you’re interested in reef, cave, and wreck exploration. But be aware that some reviews mention wait times and equipment concerns, so staying flexible and prepared is key.

Key Points

• Tailored to your experience level: The dive briefings and small groups mean a customized experience.
• All equipment provided: You don’t need to bring your own—just show up ready to explore.
• Flexible scheduling: Tours start early at 8:00 am, with updates sent via WhatsApp or email.
• Safety is a priority: Dive briefings and medical considerations are clearly emphasized.
• Includes transportation: Transfer to the dive site is comfortable and air-conditioned.
• Additional full-day options available in Gozo and Comino for more adventure.

What to Expect During Your Malta Dive Experience

Starting Point and Timing

Your day begins at Diveshack in Sliema, where you’ll meet your guides at 8:00 am. The meeting point is easily accessible by public transportation, and the activity ends back at the same spot. The early start makes for a less crowded experience, often with better visibility in the water. The tour is designed to last about five hours, including briefings, transfers, and your two fun dives.

Small Group Size

With a maximum of 15 travelers, you’ll get a more personalized experience. Many of the reviews highlight the helpfulness and kindness of the instructors. Susann_M shared, “Kind and helpful instructors. Great dive. It took more time than we expected, but that didn’t disturb anything. We had a fun day.” This small-group approach means your guides can focus on your safety and enjoyment, whether you’re a seasoned diver or relatively new to the sport.

The Dive Briefings

Each diver receives two detailed dive briefings before entering the water. These are essential for understanding the dive site, safety procedures, and what to look out for. The guides aim to match dives to your skill level, which means no unnecessary stress or over-challenging routes. This is especially reassuring for those who might be a bit nervous or want a relaxed, enjoyable exploration.

Dive Locations and Scenery

While the exact dive sites aren’t specified, you’ll explore reefs, caves, and wrecks—Malta’s waters are known for such features. Joshua_P praised a WWII wreck dive, describing it as “clear water and an amazing time.” You can expect stunning underwater views, and perhaps encounters with local marine life like jellyfish, which April_C enjoyed during her dive. The water clarity and mild currents make for good visibility, perfect for taking in the underwater scenery.

Equipment and Safety

All necessary scuba equipment is included. That said, some reviews mention equipment issues, like a broken mouthpiece, so it’s worth double-checking with the operator in advance if you have specific concerns. The guides are experienced and prioritize safety, and the tour requires medical clearance if you have health conditions. They also emphasize that swimmers and certified divers are the target audience, so it’s not suitable for beginners or non-swimmers.

Additional Adventures and Options

If you find yourself hooked on Malta’s underwater world, you can opt for full-day excursions in Gozo or Comino, which involve more extensive exploration and tend to involve extra fees. These are perfect if you’re craving more time beneath the waves.

The Post-Dive Experience

After your dives, you can unwind at the on-site bistro, which offers a casual spot to share stories and relax. It’s a good way to wind down and discuss your underwater discoveries.

Pricing and Value

At $104.11 per person, this tour offers a decent value considering it includes two guided fun dives, transportation, and full equipment. Compared to full-day trips that might cost more, this is a practical choice for those who want a shorter, more flexible experience without sacrificing quality or safety.

The reviews highlight that the guides are kind, patient, and attentive, which adds to the overall value. Some travelers have expressed appreciation for the personalized care, especially newer divers or those with specific needs. Keep in mind, if you want to explore more or do additional activities, the full-day options are available at an extra cost.

The Balance of Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Personalized attention with small groups and experienced guides.
• All necessary scuba gear included.
• Flexibility in scheduling and site selection based on experience.
• Focus on safety and responsible tourism.
• Opportunity to see wrecks, caves, and reefs in Malta’s waters.

Cons:

• Possible wait times or delays, especially during busy seasons.
• Equipment issues have been reported, so double-check gear beforehand.
• Cannot include hotel pickup/dropoff; you’ll need to arrange your own transport.
• Weather and sea conditions may affect the schedule and visibility.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour suits certified divers who want a half-day adventure to explore Malta’s underwater treasures without committing to a full-day or multi-dive package. It’s perfect for those who value small groups and personalized guidance, especially if you’re newer to diving or want to ensure safety and comfort. If you’re seeking wrecks, caves, and reefs, this tour will deliver. But if you’re after a more comprehensive exploration or specific wrecks, you might want to consider full-day options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need my own scuba gear? No, all equipment is provided. Just bring your enthusiasm and readiness to explore.

What time does the tour start? The tour begins at 8:00 am, with updates sent beforehand via WhatsApp or email.

Is this suitable for non-swimmers? No, the activity is only for swimmers and certified divers.

Can I join if I have medical conditions? Yes, but you’ll need written approval from your doctor. The organizers specify health requirements and medical restrictions.

How long is the experience? Around five hours, including briefings, transfers, and two dives.

Are the dives suitable for beginners? It’s designed for certified divers, with the experience tailored to your skill level. It’s not a beginner’s activity.

What should I bring? Towel and swimsuit (for after the dives). Equipment is included, but bring any personal items you prefer.

Is there flexibility for changing plans? Cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. The schedule can be affected by weather and sea conditions.

Are there options for longer excursions? Yes, full-day trips to Gozo and Comino are available at an extra fee.

Final Thoughts

If you’re a certified diver eager to explore the waters around Malta without the commitment of a full-day tour, this experience ticks many boxes. The focus on safety, personalized attention, and the chance to see reefs, caves, and wrecks make it a solid choice. The inclusion of all gear, transfers, and knowledgeable guides means you can focus entirely on enjoying your time underwater.

While not perfect—delays or equipment concerns might crop up—you’re generally in good hands. This tour is especially fitting if you’re after a flexible, small-group experience that emphasizes safety and fun. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or someone looking to add a couple of memorable dives to your Malta trip, this could be just the right fit.

Remember to communicate any health concerns beforehand, arrive on time, and be flexible with schedules—weather can influence the day’s flow. With a bit of planning, you’re set for two enjoyable dives and an authentic taste of Malta’s underwater charm.