Malta: Scuba Diving Experience for Beginners w/certificate

If you’re dreaming of experiencing Malta’s crystal-clear waters without any prior diving experience, this scuba for beginners tour might just be your perfect match. While I haven’t personally been underwater on this tour, reviews consistently praise it for its friendly guides, stunning marine life, and excellent safety standards.

What really catches the eye? The tailored approach for first-timers, the inclusive full equipment and instruction, and the chance to leave with a certificate valid for a year to dive up to 12 meters.

That said, a potential consideration is the activity’s duration—at just three hours, it’s a quick taste of the sea rather than a full-day adventure. This experience suits travelers wanting a safe, beginner-friendly introduction to scuba diving, especially if they value personalized attention and professional guidance.

Key Points

• Ideal for beginners: no prior experience needed, with thorough safety briefings and practice.
• Small group size: limited to four participants ensures personalized care and guidance.
• Includes all gear and insurance: hassle-free setup so you can focus on enjoying the moment.
• Underwater photography: add-on options to capture your underwater memories.
• Certificate for future dives: valid for a year, enabling ongoing underwater exploration.
• Limited to specific groups: not suitable for children under 10, pregnant women, or those with certain medical conditions.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Malta Scuba Experience

Starting Point: OK Diving Malta

The adventure begins at OK Diving Malta, situated conveniently by the pool within the Sirens aquatic sports club. From the moment you arrive, the setup feels professional, with clean facilities and welcoming staff ready to guide you through the process. Most reviews highlight the instructor’s warmth and clarity as key to building confidence for first-timers, with guides like Ben noted for his positive attitude and calming presence.

The Safety Briefing: Laying the Foundation

The first hour is dedicated to comprehensive safety instructions. This segment is crucial because it sets the tone for the entire experience. We loved how the staff take the time to explain each step clearly, addressing concerns about equipment handling, underwater communication, and emergency procedures. One reviewer, Gabriela, mentioned, “The instructor and the photographer are real professionals,” emphasizing the importance of well-trained guides.

Practice in the Heated Outdoor Pool

Next, there’s a practical phase in the heated outdoor swimming pool. Here, you get to practice exercises like clearing water from goggles and mouthpieces, which are vital skills for safety and comfort in open water. This warm-up is especially appreciated by beginners, who often feel reassured by having a dry run. As one reviewer, Sean, pointed out, “They taught you everything on land before going to the pool to test out the equipment and exercises.”

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The Underwater Adventure

After practicing, it’s time for the sea exploration. The guided tour lasts about an hour and takes place at Maltas’s famously clear waters. Although the dive is limited to 12 meters, the experience feels immersive, with plenty of marine life to observe—starfish, small fish, and other colorful creatures. Reviewers like Karolina shared how safe and calm the guides made her feel, even highlighting the professionalism of divers like Ben, who can calmly soothe first-timers if nerves kick in.

The Final Piece: The Certification

One of the tour’s biggest perks is the certificate, valid for a full year, allowing you to dive up to 12 meters under supervision. This opens doors to further underwater adventures in Malta or anywhere else you choose to explore. The certification process is straightforward, and guides are happy to clarify how to use it for future dives.

End of the Tour and Return

The activity wraps up back at OK Diving Malta, with most participants feeling a mix of exhilaration and accomplishment. Many reviews mention how supporting guides like Rita and Ben contributed to a positive experience, especially for those with initial fears. Eleanor, for example, noted that she faced her fear with their help and found the experience unforgettable.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included in the package are a thorough briefing, exercises in the pool, all necessary scuba gear, diving insurance, and the certificate. This setup makes the experience very hassle-free—everything is ready for you, and you don’t need to worry about extra costs or equipment rentals.

Not included is hotel pickup or drop-off, which means you’ll need to make your way to the meeting point at OK Diving Malta. The location is easily accessible and well-signed, so travel logistics are straightforward.

Group Size, Duration, and Practicalities

The tour is designed for small groups—limited to four participants—which makes for more personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere. The total duration is about three hours, with flexible starting times depending on availability. This shorter window makes it ideal for those with tight schedules or as a quick introduction to the underwater world.

Timing and Requirements

Starting times vary, so it’s worth checking availability in advance. The tour is conducted in English and Spanish, with guides also able to assist in French and Italian. Participants should bring swimwear and a towel, and be prepared to fill out a medical questionnaire. Certain health conditions and age restrictions apply, notably for those over 45 or with specific medical concerns.

Authentic Experiences from Reviewers

Readers have praised the guides for their professionalism. Sean shared, “We went about 8 meters deep, and there was plenty of marine life to see,” emphasizing how accessible and rewarding the sea exploration can be for beginners. Eleanor recounted her birthday dive, saying, “Ben supported me throughout and made it so memorable,” highlighting the personalized care guides provide.

The underwater photography is another hit—many couples and solo travelers opt for the photos, which can be purchased for around €45. Reviewers consistently mention the value of these pictures for cherishing their first underwater moments.

Practical Tips for Future Divers

• Arrive prepared with swimwear and a towel.
• Book in advance, especially in peak seasons, to secure your preferred time slot.
• Check medical conditions beforehand using the provided questionnaire, and consult your doctor if needed.
• Plan your travel to the meeting point, as no transport is included.
• Avoid alcohol or drugs before the activity for safety reasons.
• Remember, wait at least 12 hours before flying after your dive.

Who Is This Experience Best For?

This tour is perfect if you’re new to scuba diving and want a safe, well-guided introduction. It’s ideal for adventurers who love marine life and are eager to try something new without committing to a full certification upfront. The small group size and professional guides ensure a supportive environment, especially for those with nerves or initial hesitations.

It’s less suited for children under ten, pregnant women, or anyone with certain medical conditions. If you’re looking for an adrenaline-filled, multi-day diving holiday, this likely isn’t the right fit—but as a first taste of the underwater world, it hits the spot.

Final Thoughts

This Malta beginner scuba experience offers a fantastic blend of professionalism, safety, and stunning underwater views. It’s designed to make first-timers feel confident and excited, with knowledgeable guides and all equipment included. The added bonus of a certificate for future dives is a great incentive to continue exploring Malta’s vibrant marine environment.

For travelers craving a fun, safe, and memorable introduction to scuba diving—especially those who value personalized attention—this tour is an excellent choice. Its affordability, combined with the opportunity to gain a tangible certification, makes it a smart pick for all aspiring underwater explorers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is prior experience needed to join?
No, this tour is designed specifically for beginners, with full instruction and safety briefings provided.

What should I bring?
Bring your swimwear and a towel. It’s also recommended to arrive a little early to settle in.

How long does the activity last?
The total experience takes roughly three hours, including safety briefings, practice, and the sea tour.

Can I get a refund if I cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is there an age restriction?
Yes, children under 10 are not suitable, and participants under 18 need parental approval.

Are there medical restrictions?
Yes, individuals with certain health conditions should consult the medical questionnaire and seek a medical certificate if needed. Participants with issues like breathing, heart, or neurological concerns should check the specific restrictions.

Will I receive a certificate?
Yes, you’ll get a certificate valid for one year to dive up to 12 meters with an instructor, which is a fun and practical takeaway to continue exploring underwater.

To sum it up, this Malta scuba adventure offers a thoughtful, approachable way for first-timers to dip their toes—or rather, fins—into the underwater world. With professional guides, all gear included, and the chance to take home a certification, it’s a value-packed experience for curious travelers eager to see Malta from beneath the surface. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to conquer a new skill, this tour makes underwater exploration inviting, safe, and unforgettable.

You can check availability for your dates here: