Diving In Gozo
A beautiful, rugged adventure island in the heart of the Mediterranean, built for diving.
Everything you’ll need to know about diving in Gozo!
The adventure island built for diving right in the heart of the Mediterranean.
Range Of Depths, Shore Access
Key features
September
Best Time Of The Year
85 / 100
Rating
Cheap
Cost
Medium - Adventurous & Boat
Access Type
Low - Medium
Fish Life
Quick Links
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Where is Gozo?
Gozo is in the heart of the Mediterranean and is the little sister island to Malta. The small island is only 67 square kilometers (26 square miles) yet houses an impressive 46 churches. With a population of around 40,000 people, Gozo is an enchanting island that is rich in history, has a natural beauty, and, most importantly, is packed with great shore diving.
Although they speak Maltease, English is widely spoken and you will find it easy to communicate with the locals. Many dive centres have international instructors that speak a wide-range of languages.
Beyond its aquatic allure, Gozo is steeped in history dating back thousands of years. From ancient temples that predate the Egyptian pyramids to medieval fortifications that whisper tales of knights and battles, the island is a living testament to the civilisations that have shaped its identity. Its charming villages, rolling hills, and picturesque coastline further add to the island’s undeniable charm.
How to get to Gozo?
To get to Gozo you must first fly to Malta. The international airport has between 150 – 200 flights per day and flies to many large European hubs. Once you land, you’ll take a 35km journey to the Gozo Channel Ferry line terminal in Cirkewwa which will likely cost you around 30 euros for a taxi and take around 45 minutes. Alternatively there are air-conditioned busses but that will take you up to 2 hours dependent on the route.
Catching the ferry is easy, with a ferry leaving every 45 minutes (although slightly less overnight in the winter) and a one-way cost of sub 5 euros you’ll be able to relax during the 25 minute crossing. You’ll arrive in Mgarr, the South-East ferry port in which you’ll be able to take a taxi or bus to your final destination. If you’re renting a car in Malta, you can take this across to Gozo easily. Petrol stations are dotted around although, on such a small island, a full tank of fuel lasts a long time!
Where to stay on Gozo
Going for a diving holiday means staying by the sea. Although there are many great towns that aren’t sea-side, you’ll want to make the most of the water whilst you’re there. I would suggest staying in either Xlendi (South-West) or Marsalforn (North).
Xlendi – A small but bustling town with good bus links, great views and incredible food. This is a great option if you’re looking for a more layed-back town when compared to it’s more touristy Marsalforn. Choose either a hotel (St Patricks or San Andrea) or opt for a self-contained apartment, B&B or guesthouse.
Marsalforn – Full of life, and popular with many tourists, Marsalforn gives easy access to the North coast. With equally good transport links and a wider selection of restaurant choices, Marsalforn offers a faster (yet still slow) pace of life. Choose either a hotel (Hotel Calypso or La Playa Hotel) or opt for a self-contained apartment, B&B or guesthouse.
When to go diving in Gozo?
Although you can dive all-year-round on Gozo, sticking to the spring, summer and autumn is best. Come winter time, ladders are often taken out restricting you to beaches and shore entry.
The optimum time to go diving in Gozo is September. By this point the weather is still warm but not scorching, the water is as warm as it’s going to get and the island is starting to quiet down after the summer holiday rush. You’ll find the general standard of divers will increase around this time as dive groups often plan their excursions for early to mid September.
January: 14°C Air | 15°C Water
February: 14°C Air | 15°C Water
March: 15°C Air | 15°C Water
April: 18°C Air | 16°C Water
May: 22°C Air | 18°C Water
June: 26°C Air | 22°C Water
July: 30°C Air | 25°C Water
August: 30°C Air | 27°C Water
September: 27°C Air | 26°C Water
October: 23°C Air | 24°C Water
November: 19°C Air | 21°C Water
December: 16°C Air | 17°C Water
Where to go diving on Gozo?
Gozo has a wide range of dive sites that suit almost any ability which is why diving in Gozo is a hit with families and dive groups. Depth ranges from shallow sand and stone beaches, right through to 100m+ dives. There is something for everyone with wrecks, reefs and caves.
There is approximately 60 “official” dives sites but here’s a run-down of great sites to try (depending on both weather and ability).
Easy Shore Dives: Xlendi Bay (including a great, easily accessible, shallow tunnel), Mgarr Ix-Xini (a beautiful location with a small cavern), Marsalforn Reef, Xwejini Bay.
Wreck Dives: MV Xlendi (30m+, shore) MV Karwela (30m+, shore), MV Cominoland (30m+, shore), xxxx, Hephaestus (30m+, shore), P31 (Comino, 18m max, boat)
Cave Dives: Billingshurst, Shrimps Cave
Other: Blue Hole, Inland Sea, Reqqua Point, Ras il-Hobz
Top Gozo Dive Sites
Inland Sea
Starting in a protected bay, a swim through an incredible, open-tunnel takes you to breathtaking views with wall-reefs that drop to 60m. Due to boats passing, buoyancy is key.
Features: Shore, Tunnel, Reef, Drop-off
Difficulty: Medium
Depth: Any Depth (Max 60m)
Access: Very Easy
Blue Hole
Described by Jaques Cousteau as Europe’s finest, Blue Hole is a must-dive. An adventurous walk from the car-park is rewarded by an incredible site accessible to all.
Features: Shore, Arch, Chimney, Reef
Difficulty: Medium
Depth: Any Depth
Access: Medium (Adventurous)
MV Karwela
Arguably Gozo’s best wreck, the 48m long, 8m wide purpose-sunk wreck sits upright playing host to a wide range of sea-life. Great platform to complete the dive.
Features: Shore, Wreck, Wall
Difficulty: Easy (but deep)
Depth: 12m platform, 35m+ wreck
Access: Easy to Medium
Ras il-Hobz
Also known as “Middle Finger”, an easy, flat access leads to a pinnacle that holds a variety of sea-life. Pick your level and circle the as you ascend finishing along the wall.
Features: Reef, Wall, Drop-off
Difficulty: Easy
Depth: Any depth (60m+ max)
Access: Easy
Cathedral Cave
Accessible by shore (100+ steps) or ladder, a cave you can surface in being bathed in blue-hue lighting. An unforgettable dive accessible to any certification level.
Features: Cave, Reef, Wall
Difficulty: Easy
Depth: Any depth (40m+ max)
Access: Medium (Adventurous)
Get Your Free Dive Site Map Download
Diving in Gozo? Get your free dive site map digital download including: Blue Hole, Xatt L-Ahmar Wrecks, Cathedral Cave, Inland Sea & more!
Fish Life
If you’re looking for incredible, abundant fish life then diving in Gozo is NOT for you. Now that’s not to say there’s nothing to look at. You can commonly see grouper, octopus, wrasse, barracuda, reef fish and eels. Those who are incredibly lucky, however, may be able to spot the gracious Mola Mola (Ocean Sunfish) – although these are rare.
Gozo’s charm comes in the easy-to-access dive sites that don’t rely on boats, along with incredible underwater structures – a divers playground. The only thing missing is a few more fish! So, although diving in Gozo won’t satisfy your fish-finding requirements, it will certainly scratch your diving itch!
Culture
On this little island there’s more than just diving in Gozo. The culture will enchant you. You’ll enjoy incredible diving, a relaxing pace of life, and, at the end of the day, the waves will whisper softly in your ear whilst you enjoy the best food and drink the island has to offer. After something more active? Each town celebrates its own festival, one almost every week, so be sure to find out where the next one is and celebrate with the locals.
On your pre-flight day, enjoy the beautiful nature, the abundance of churches, or explore the island on foot or on bike.
Key Questions
If you’re looking for warm but not uncomfortable air, reliable weather, warmest water and a quieter island try early September.
Reefs, walls, wrecks, drop-offs, tunnels, underwater arches and more. Gozo has an incredibly amount of shore-accessible dive sites that will please anyone of any standard. Be prepared, fish-life isn’t in abundance.
Aside from the elusive Mola Mola (Ocean Sunfish) there’s very little sea-life of interest. Commonly seen: Groupers, Wrasse, Jacks & Tuna, Eels, Octopus, Lobster and Reef Fish.
Apart from the beach dives, most access can be described as adventurous. Expect to walk a little to get to where you need to be but, don’t worry, as soon as you’re in it will all be worth it!
Yes! Diving in Gozo is great and possibly one of the best spots to choose in Europe. The sites are a divers playground and offer everything for any ability.
Xav
First qualified at 10 years old, I’m a PADI and SSI instructor, technical diver and general water enthusiast. I’ve dived and worked all over the world and aim to provide honest, open reviews of locations including information that will make your trip run smoother.
Want help planning your next trip? Get in touch for insider info including fully bespoke dive trip planning.
An Honest Review
Gozo’s a hidden gem in the heart of the Medetteranium that should be experienced by every European diver. Diving in Gozo is a real adventurous experience.
Now I always promise to give honest, impartial advice and that’s exactly what you’ll get here.
If you’re from Europe, or are close by, should you dive here? Absolutely! Gozo is undoubtedly one of the best places to dive due to it’s easy-to-access sites that are available island-round meaning you’ll never be unable to dive.
Would I fly 6+ hours to get here? No! If you’re 6+ hours away, chances are dive locations equally as impressive (if not, even better) that you can experience.
Top Dive Centers Gozo
Calypso Diving Centre
Calypso Diving Centre has been running since 1985, always with an enthusiasm to show our guests the beautiful underwater world of the Maltese islands.
Key Features:
– Nitrox
– Multi-lingual Instructors
– Rib Boat
– Dive & Accomidation Packages
Location: Marsalforn
St. Andrews Divers Cove
Whether you’re a beginner or experienced, a try-diver or wanted to get certified, St Andrews multi-lingual dive-centre is the place to come and have fun.
Key Features:
– Nitrox
– Multi-lingual Instructors
– Hard Boat
– Beach Front Location
Location: Xlendi
Gozo Technical Diving
When it comes to diving, not all training is created equal. Gozo Diving, don’t rush you through your course. They develop you as a diver.
Key Features:
– Tech-Diving focused
– Multi-lingual Instructors
– Boat diving
– Multi-Federation
Location: Xewkija
Plan Your Dive Trip To Gozo
Pre-Planning
If you’re looking to go diving in Gozo, try and plan a trip in September. Flights and hotels are usually cheaper, dive centres are less busy and the weather is still great.
Contact a dive centre of your choice (although we suggest using one above) and make sure passports, dive medicals and insurance are up-to-date.
Decide if you’re wanting to get any certifications done as you may be able to do the learning before you go leaving just the fun dive parts when you arrive.
If it’s been a while try getting a refresher done locally. If not, watch some videos just to refresh your memory.
Once all paperwork is in order it’s time to pull out your gear, having anything serviced and replace anything necessary.
Flight, Transport & Accommodation
Book your flights early. Look for the best luggage option – sometimes this is a normal suitcase, other times this may be oversized baggage. Remember, always pack your dive computer and your mask in your hand luggage (and preferably your regs if bringing your own).
Book your taxi from the airport to the ferry, and from the ferry to your hotel/apartment in advance. This will save you money and ensure you get top-quality service. I would personally take taxis rather than renting as once you get to the town where you’re staying, you won’t need a vehicle unless of course you are diving unaccompanied (i.e without a dive centre instructor/guide).
Personally, I would opt for a self-contained apartment. This allows you to make yourself a quick breakfast ready for diving and gives you the freedom to choose local restaurants rather than constantly opting for the hotel restaurant. Remember, most hotel restaurants are open to the general public as well!
If I were going back diving in Gozo, I would opt for a small flat in Xlendi, the view is not important as you’ll spend the evening sat by the sea in a bar or restaurant.
Ferry To Gozo
Booking the ferry is not required. When you arrive, head inside, buy yourself a ticket and wait for the next ferry. When it arrives head for the upper deck and enjoy the view. If you stand on the starboard (right) side, you’ll have a great view of Comino.
When you approach Gozo, head back inside and wait for the passenger bridge to open.
A Weeks Diving
The exciting part. Your week diving in Gozo is just about to start!
If diving with a centre, get there as soon as you arrive to finish up any paperwork and unpack your dive kit ready for the morning – you don’t want to delay a dive or forget something in the morning rush. Then, enjoy your first day, get in the water for a quick dip, stock up on snacks and bottled water, eat well, hydrate and get to sleep early.
If diving in Gozo unaccompanied, see if you can collect bottles the night before (although check your car insurance), if collecting in the morning, avoid peak times. Come up with a couple of different options the night before and then choose one depending on the weather. The most accurate weather app to use is WindGuru. Choose a dive site opposite to the wind direction, tides are not important.
At a minimum, before your week of diving in Gozo is up, make sure you dive:
– Inland Sea
– Blue Hole
– Cathedral Cave
Recommended plan (dependent on weather/wind):
Day 1: [1] Xlendi Bay, [2]Blue Hole
Day 2: [1] Wreck, [2] Blue Hole
Day 3: [1] Reqqa Point, [2] Inland Sea
Day 4: [1] Ras il-Hobz, [2] Cathedral Cave
Day 5: [1] Wreck, [2] Double Arch
Day 6: [1] Billingshurst Cave, [2] Mgarr ix-Xini
Day 7: 24h Surface time before your flight.
Explore: Xlendi Tower, Ramla Beach, Hondoq Beach, San Blas Beach & Dahlet Qorrot Beach
[1] = dive 1, [2] = dive 2
Top Travel Accessories For Diving In Gozo
If you purchase an item with these links the price is exactly the same however I get a small commission. This allows me to continue this website, and provide (hopefully) useful information whilst being able to support ocean-related charities. There is no sponsorship for these products, these are items I would highly recommend and use myself.
Diving Gozo & Comino – A great divebook written by a friend of mine. Dive maps mixed in with historic and cultural information.
View a snippet here.
Access to Gozo’s dive sites is notoriously adventurous, rocky and often full of sea-urchins. Hard-soled dive boots are a must when diving in Gozo to help keeping your feel and ankles safe. These boots have saved me many a injury.
Save your wetsuit from the sand and muck found on the floor when changing. When diving in Gozo you’ll be changing on rocks, adjacent to saltpans, or tarmac. Save yourself a whole load of hassle with a changing mat.
On a similar thread, save yourself the towel-changing-dance and grab yourself a light-weight microfibre towel to help change in and out of swimwear. Only 1 dive site on Gozo has a changing room, so save yourself a dropped towel…
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