For those looking for an underwater adventure, both Malta and the Canary Islands offer unique and captivating diving experiences. While both destinations boast warm waters and diverse marine life, distinct characteristics set them apart.
This article delves into the specifics of each location, helping you choose the perfect diving holiday.
Malta, along with its sister island Gozo, presents a world-class diving experience suitable for all levels, from novice to seasoned expert. The exceptionally clear visibility and vibrant blue waters provide a stunning backdrop for exploring the diverse underwater landscapes.
Malta's underwater world is a captivating mix of caves, arches, wrecks, and reefs teeming with marine life. The famous Blue Hole in Gozo, with its dramatic archway and deep azure depths, is a must see. Wreck enthusiasts will be drawn to sites like the Karwela, a scuttled ferry offering a fascinating glimpse into the past. For a more accessible dive, Xlendi Bay caters to all levels, with a shallow tunnel and gentle drop-offs perfect for beginners.
Throughout these sites, divers can encounter a variety of marine species, from colourful fish and octopus to moray eels and even the occasional seahorse. You can experience all three when you book through the Ritual Dive Gozo Diving Centre.
Malta enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate, allowing for year-round diving. Water temperatures rarely drop below 13°C, and the generally calm waters provide comfortable diving conditions.
The island's compact size means dive sites are easily accessible, with many reachable directly from the shore or just a short boat trip away. This convenience makes Malta an ideal destination for divers who prefer to maximise their time underwater.
Gozo, Malta's smaller neighbour, offers a more tranquil diving experience. Its dramatic coastline and pristine waters are home to some of the most spectacular dive sites in the archipelago. The Inland Sea, a lagoon connected to the open sea by a narrow tunnel, is a unique dive experience not to be missed.
The Canary Islands, a Spanish archipelago off the coast of Africa, offer a different diving experience shaped by their volcanic origins and Atlantic location.
The volcanic landscape extends beneath the surface, creating dramatic underwater formations, including caves, lava flows, and reefs. The diverse marine life reflects the islands' Atlantic location, with sightings of angel sharks, rays, barracuda, and even the occasional whale or dolphin. Each island offers unique dive sites, from the calm waters of Lanzarote to the more challenging currents of El Hierro.
The Canary Islands enjoy a subtropical climate, with warm waters year-round. Visibility is generally good, though it can vary depending on the location and time of year. Most dive sites are accessible by boat, with dive centres readily available across the islands.
The diverse nature of the Canary Islands allows for “island hopping,” offering divers the chance to explore a variety of underwater environments. Tenerife, the largest island, boasts diverse dive sites, while La Palma offers unique black sand dives. Gran Canaria, known for its vibrant reefs, caters to all levels of divers.
Choosing between Malta and the Canary Islands depends on your diving preferences and overall holiday desires. Let’s summarise the key factors.
Malta:
• Best for: Divers seeking easily accessible sites, calm waters, and a rich historical context. Ideal for beginners and those who enjoy exploring wrecks and caves.
• Consider: Malta's smaller size might limit the variety of dive sites compared to the Canary Islands.
Canary Islands:
• Best for: Divers looking for diverse volcanic landscapes, encounters with larger pelagic species, and a more adventurous diving experience. Suitable for all levels, but some sites may require more experience due to currents.
• Consider: Inter-island travel might be necessary to experience the full range of diving opportunities.
Ultimately, both Malta and the Canary Islands offer exceptional diving opportunities. By considering the specific characteristics of each destination, you can choose the perfect underwater adventure to suit your needs and create unforgettable diving memories.
