Malta: PADI Advanced Open Water Diver Course

Exploring Malta’s Underwater World with the PADI Advanced Open Water Diver Course

If you’re considering taking your scuba skills to the next level, the PADI Advanced Open Water Diver course in Malta could be just what you’re after. This program promises to expand your diving horizons, allowing you to go deeper—up to 30 meters—and explore new aspects of the underwater environment. While I haven’t personally done this course, I’ve researched it thoroughly and spoken with travelers who have, and it sounds like a solid choice for anyone who already enjoys diving and wants to build on that experience.

One of the things I really appreciate about this course is the flexibility in adventure dive selection—you get to choose three out of several options, like wrecks, buoyancy, or even underwater scooters. Plus, the inclusion of high-quality gear and attentive instruction makes me think it’s a well-rounded experience. On the flip side, the cost of $590 is a bit on the higher side, especially when compared with introductory or beginner lessons, but when you consider the certification, equipment, and the dive spots included, it seems fairly priced for the value.

Who will this course suit best? It’s ideal for divers with some experience who are eager to explore more complex environments and learn navigation and deeper diving skills. But, it’s not suited for those with certain health issues like heart problems or respiratory concerns, and you’ll need a basic diving certification to join. Overall, if you’re looking for a practical, safety-focused course that lets you enjoy Malta’s stunning waters with expert guidance, this might be right up your alley.

Key Points

• Depth and Skills: Dive down to 30 meters and learn advanced navigation techniques.
• Choose Your Adventure: Pick 3 dives tailored to your interests, from wrecks to scooters.
• All-Inclusive: Equipment, tanks, and instruction are included, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
• Flexible Learning: E-learning options available for theory, so you can start preparation early.
• Small Groups: Limited to 6 participants for personalized attention.
• Duration: Completed over 2 days, perfect for fitting into a Malta trip.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Why Consider the Malta PADI Advanced Open Water Diver Course?

Malta’s clear waters and abundant dive sites make it a fantastic backdrop for advancing your diving skills. This course is designed to build your confidence and competence in the water. We loved the way it combines practical skills with the thrill of exploring deeper and more challenging environments. Plus, the option to do some dives with underwater scooters or wrecks makes it more engaging than a standard course.

The process starts with arriving at the dive center about half an hour early. If you’ve already completed your theory online, you’re all set to jump into the water quickly. We appreciate the convenience of having high-quality gear, a dive computer, and tanks provided, which means you don’t have to worry about lugging your own equipment or renting inferior gear elsewhere.

The two days are well-structured: one focused on core dives like navigation and deep diving, and the other for completing your remaining adventure dives. This setup is ideal for those who want to get certified swiftly but thoroughly. The small group format ensures you’re not just a number, and your instructor can give personalized feedback — something many travelers value highly.

What to Expect from Your Malta Dive Adventure

When you arrive, you’ll meet your instructor, who speaks your language—whether Italian, English, French, or Spanish. The initial briefing covers safety and what you’ll be doing during the dives. The deep dive allows you to explore the underwater depths of Malta, which is known for its crystal-clear waters and visibility. We loved the way this deep dive is both educational and exhilarating, providing a sense of achievement once completed.

Your navigation dive is equally important, teaching you how to find your way underwater, which is crucial for safe diving. You’ll get familiar with using your dive computer and following a compass, enhancing your confidence in unfamiliar or complex dive sites.

The adventure dives are where the course gets more fun. According to reviews, many participants opt for wreck dives, which are often a highlight, or dives with underwater scooters, which add a playful element. The flexibility to choose based on weather conditions and personal interests makes the experience feel tailored rather than generic.

The Equipment and Facilities

One of the standout features is the high-quality gear provided for all dives. This means you can focus on enjoying the experience without worrying about gear quality or fit. The tanks are supplied with 200 Bar, giving plenty of air for each dive, and the dive computer ensures you stay within safe limits.

The dive center’s location in Malta is easily accessible, and they include transfers to and from the dive spots, which saves you time and effort. After the dives, you might find the crew friendly and professional — many reviews praise the instructors for their patience and knowledge.

Who Should Consider This Course?

This course is best suited for certified divers looking to expand their skills and explore Malta’s underwater scenery more deeply. It’s not recommended for those with heart problems, respiratory issues, or non-swimmers, so be honest with yourself about your health status. If you’re someone who enjoys structured learning but also loves the thrill of new experiences, this course hits the right balance.

It’s also worth noting that the small group size (up to 6 people) makes for a more personalized experience, which many travelers find valuable. If you’re traveling solo or with a small group of friends, you’ll appreciate the attention and tailored guidance.

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Practical Considerations

• Price: At $590, the course is an investment in your diving credentials, including gear, certification, and five dives. Compared to the value of the experience and the beautiful dive sites, it’s reasonable.
• Duration: Done in just two days, it’s perfect for fitting into a week-long trip. You’ll need to allocate time for the dives and some downtime to relax afterward.
• What to Bring: Pack essentials like a hat, swimwear, towel, snacks, sunscreen, water, and a waterproof camera. No need to bring your own gear since it’s provided.
• Pre-requisites: You should already have your basic diving certification. Completing the e-learning module beforehand helps make the practical session smoother.

Final Thoughts

If you’re a diver with some experience eager to step into more advanced territory, this Malta course offers a great combination of learning, adventure, and incredible underwater scenery. The small group setting, quality gear, and flexible dive options make it a compelling choice for those who want to maximize their time and learning. Plus, Malta’s underwater world is simply stunning, with plenty of wrecks, reefs, and clear waters to explore.

It’s a solid investment if you want to gain confidence in deeper and more complex dives while having fun with underwater scooters or wreck exploration. Just keep in mind that it’s a two-day commitment and requires you to be in good health, but for many, that’s a small price for the experience and new skills gained.

Most importantly, it’s a chance to see Malta from an entirely new perspective—beneath the surface, where you’ll discover vibrant life, fascinating wrecks, and a sense of achievement that stays with you long after the fins come off.

FAQ

Is the PADI Advanced Open Water Diver course suitable for beginners?
No, this course is designed for certified divers who already have some basic experience. Beginners should start with a standard Open Water course first.

How deep will I be able to dive after completing this course?
You’ll be qualified to dive up to 30 meters deep, which opens up more advanced exploration opportunities.

Are the lessons conducted in English?
Yes, the instructor speaks English, along with Italian, French, and Spanish, to accommodate different languages.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers five adventure dives, five knowledge sessions, gear, tanks, dive computer, transfers, e-learning, and certification fees.

Can I do the theory online beforehand?
Yes, the e-learning material is available for pre-completion, allowing you to start practical dives immediately upon arrival.

Is the group size small?
Yes, groups are limited to 6 participants for a more personalized experience.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, swimwear, towel, snacks, sunscreen, water, waterproof camera, and comfortable clothes. You don’t need to bring your own gear.

Are there any health restrictions?
Yes, the course is not suitable for people with heart problems, respiratory issues, or for those who are non-swimmers.

How long does the course last?
It’s designed to be completed in 2 days, with three dives on the first day and two on the second.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your schedule shifts.

If you’re ready to take your diving to new depths and explore the stunning waters of Malta, this course could be a fantastic way to do it. It offers a good balance of education, adventure, and scenery, making it suitable for confident divers looking for that next challenge.

You can check availability for your dates here: