We often get asked when the dive season in Malta ends, and the real answer is: it doesn't.
One of the great things about Malta is the option to dive all year round, and each season brings different benefits. The temperatures may drop from November to March, but with the right thermal protection you can enjoy diving in Malta 365 days of the year.
Temperatures
During the summer the water in Malta can reach 30 degrees on the surface - perfect for a shorty or even just a rash vest. The water stays above 25 degrees until the end of October. As the days get shorter, some people think the diving season may end. However, as we head into November and December, the water is still above 20 degrees with lots of sunny days.
The coolest months are January to March, where the temperature falls to about 16 degrees, both at the surface and at depth. How cold this feels will depend on what you wear underwater (and on the surface).
The milder and wetter months may bring cooler waters, but they also mean cheaper flights and quieter dive sites.
Wetsuits
When the temperatures drop, it's important to add more thermal protection to keep your dives comfortable and safe. In winter we wrap up more to stay nice and cosy: full-length 5mm wetsuits are our go-to, and adding a shorty wetsuit over the top helps keep your core warm throughout the dive. With boots, gloves and hoods, everything is covered up and warm.
Layering up is key to staying warm on a dive. If you feel the cold easily, you might want to invest in a 7mm wetsuit or additional layers such as a hooded vest or a long-sleeved rash vest. Neoprene socks worn under your boots are a favourite of our dive team to keep feet and toes warm.
How to stay warm between dives
It is also important to keep yourself warm in between dives. The sun is often shining through the winter, but a strong breeze will cool you down quickly during the surface interval. A hot drink and a woolly hat makes a big difference when you're out of the water (our dive instructor Susie will often have her flask of hot tea with her).
Tips from our team:
- Bring two rash vests. This allows you to change into a dry top in between dives, so you start the next dive warm.
- If you feel cold on a dive, let the instructor know. We can swim a little faster to keep warm or keep the dive a little shorter.
- Invest in your own hood and gloves. If these are correctly fitted for you, you will feel warm and comfortable.
Is winter diving worth it?
Absolutely, if you are prepared. It may mean more layers but it also means diving throughout the year. As the water cools, the visibility can increase. The dive sites are less crowded, and we can't think of a better way to spend the winter months than diving reefs, wrecks and caverns.
Above the surface, Malta is beautiful in the winter as well as the summer. Without the high temperatures, it allows you to explore off the beaten track, for example the heritage trail in Xemxija, or along Dingli Cliffs.
Winter logistics
Malta really is an island that is open all year round. While the weather is more unpredictable, very few places are shut for winter. There is still a huge selection of restaurants, bars and hotels open, and so much on the island to discover. Our dive centre is open for diving throughout the winter. Although boat diving is not possible November to March, as most dive sites are shore dives we can still access the best wrecks and reefs Malta has to offer.
If you want to dive with us this winter, get in touch to discuss. We are happy to answer any questions you might have and will help you plan your dives to get the most out of your time here in Malta.