This page is an English translation of the original Italian article. The original publication date and historical context have been preserved.
Halfway between Europe and Africa, in the heart of the Mediterranean, Malta has long been a favourite destination for people who love the sea. In 2018 it also became the seaside base for the Y-40 team.
Y-40 DiveBase Malta was presented as a reference point for scuba and freediving experiences around Malta, Gozo and Comino. Its staff offered access to cliffs, caves, natural inlets and wrecks, with both shore and boat diving.
Malta
The Maltese archipelago is often described as the pearl of the Mediterranean. Its history and culture are closely tied to the sea. A mild climate, an active social atmosphere and relatively simple travel connections make the islands suitable for a complete holiday throughout the year.
Numerous shore sites, wrecks, generally pleasant water temperatures and good visibility have made Malta popular with scuba divers, freedivers and underwater photographers.
The islands are reachable by scheduled and low-cost flights from many European airports and by ferry from Sicily.
In brief
- approximately 197 kilometres of coastline;
- dozens of recognised dive sites;
- clear water and generally good visibility;
- shore and boat diving;
- cultural attractions throughout the islands;
- a diving season that can continue throughout the year;
- English and Maltese as official languages, with Italian widely understood;
- restaurants and nightlife available beyond the summer season.
Diving in Malta
Based in St Paul’s Bay, the operation aimed to reach the principal sites of the three inhabited islands. Divers could prepare at the centre, travel by minibus for shore dives or depart from a nearby harbour for boat trips.
The variety of sites offered options for different certification and experience levels: caves, walls, wartime wrecks, bays and tunnels opening into clear blue water.
Among the best-known names were the Blue Hole and Inland Sea at Dwejra, Ċirkewwa, Anchor Bay, Tug 2, the Rozi, P29, HMS Maori, Reqqa Point, Um El Faroud, MV Imperial Eagle and the Żurrieq reef.
