Diving atDouble Arch Reef (Malta)
Double Arch Reef in Gozo offers a visually striking underwater experience, centered around its dramatic geological formations. Divers can anticipate encountering shoals of barracudas cruising the reef, and sometimes spot larger groupers in the deeper sections. The structural elements of the archways themselves provide shelter for colorful sponges and delicate golden cup corals. Exploring this site presents opportunities to observe diverse marine life set against an impressive natural backdrop.
Tonight's objective overview for Double Arch Reef shows an air temperature of 17.1°C. The measured surface conditions include wave heights around 0.42m. This environmental data is logged for the close of the day.
Dive Site Coordinates
36.0824, 14.2466
Key Dive Site Facts
Dive Site Overview
Descending into Double Arch Reef feels like entering an aquatic architectural marvel. Off Gozo’s north coast near Xwejni Bay, this unique geological feature showcases two natural arches stacked one upon the other, creating a visually dramatic underwater landscape.
Shore access is typical, involving an extended surface swim of around 200-300 meters (650-1000 ft) from Xwejni Bay, often from a point locally known as "the washing machine" due to choppier conditions. Upon descent, the reef begins at about 14-18 m (45-60 ft), leading to a dramatic drop-off characterized by house-sized boulders, reminiscent of an underwater canyon.
The upper arch begins around 20 m, with the foot of the lower arch extending beyond 34 m, and the maximum depth reported at the end of the reef reaching 45 m (148 ft). Divers usually navigate over these boulders and through the lower arch, admiring the structure while checking for marine life.
Beyond the archways, the reef extends with various small caverns and overhangs, inviting further exploration along its sandy bottom sections. Careful planning and appropriate certification are essential for this deep dive profile and shore access.
Best Time to Dive
Optimal visibility is often a primary consideration for diving Double Arch Reef, making May to October the preferred period. During these months, reported visibility ranges from 15-35 m (50-115 ft), allowing for clear views of the impressive double arch formation and surrounding reef. Water temperatures during this season typically span 18-26°C (64-79°F), offering comfortable diving conditions. Air temperatures are also notably warmer, averaging 18.8°C (66°F) in May, peaking around 26.4°C (80°F) in August, and remaining high through October at 23.3°C (74°F). Rainfall is minimal from June to September, with recorded averages often below 1 mm (0.04 inches) or zero, significantly reducing runoff and sediment. Outside this period, from November to April, conditions tend to be moderate with higher average wave heights, increased wind speeds, and greater rainfall, which can impact surface conditions and visibility.
Climate Historical Averages
Monthly records compiled from satellite and marine observation nodes over the last 3 years. Data provided by Open-Meteo and MET Norway.
Dive Experience & Conditions
Accessing Double Arch Reef involves a shore entry from Xwejni Bay, necessitating a significant surface swim out to the reef drop-off. This initial swim can be arduous, especially if surface conditions are choppy; local divers sometimes refer to the entry point as "the washing machine." Once submerged, divers navigate a reef featuring a dramatic drop-off and large boulders. Its deep dive profile starts with the topmost reef around 15-18 meters, extending to the base of the lower arch at approximately 34 meters. Beyond the main archways, the reef continues into sections with various small caverns and overhangs, offering additional exploration. Consistent strong currents aren't frequently reported, yet local conditions and exposure to north winds can influence wave action and underwater movement. Navigating these deep sections and dramatic topography requires good buoyancy control.
Dive Difficulty & Safety Guidelines
Double Arch Reef presents challenges requiring an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent. Its deep profile, with maximum depths around 45 meters at the end of the reef, necessitates careful dive planning, gas management, and adherence to no-decompression limits. An extended surface swim from Xwejni Bay can be strenuous and should be factored into overall dive endurance and air consumption. Exposure to north winds can make surface conditions rough, particularly at the entry point known as "the washing machine." Divers must also be mindful of the actively harvested salt pans near the shore access; to prevent damage or contamination, only walk on the designated rocky ridges separating them. Always dive within your training and experience, preferably with a local guide familiar with the site's specific conditions and features.
Recommended Equipment
No verified equipment items yet.
Verified equipment recommendations for this dive site are being reviewed and may be added as additional source checks are completed.
Recommended Dive Suit
Repeated dives during the same day can gradually reduce overall body warmth.
The water around Double Arch Reef is currently holding at approximately 18°C (64°F), setting the tone for today's dives. Surface air temperatures are resting at 17°C (63°F). Divers spending extended time underwater often rely on 5mm wetsuit for balanced warmth and flexibility.
The forecast outlook suggests that temperatures will stay close to current levels.
Conditions last reviewed: 18:00 using the latest environmental data.
Dive Logistics & Preparation
Hyperbaric Chamber
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Entry Requirements
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Currency
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Marine Life at Double Arch Reef
Upon reaching the Double Arch, divers are often immediately struck by the sight of large shoals of barracudas patrolling the reef and around the arches. In deeper sections, the possibility of encountering impressive groupers adds to the excitement. Closer inspection of the archways and their shaded undersides reveals colourful sponges and delicate golden cup corals (Astroides calycularis). Moving over the boulders and along the reef walls, blennies, nudibranchs, and various anemones can be spotted. Within the numerous crevasses and on the seabed, observant divers might find slipper lobsters, large octopus, and diverse species of sea urchins.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Double Arch Reef a unique dive?
Its most striking feature is the geological formation of two natural arches, one built directly on top of the other. This creates a visually stunning underwater landscape that particularly draws experienced divers. Dramatic topography and a deep reef structure are also notable aspects.
What is the typical depth range for this dive?
Diving the Double Arch, divers will find the reef generally begins at 15-18 meters. The upper arch starts around 20 meters, with its lower arch extending to approximately 34 meters. Expect maximum depths at the reef's end to reach about 45 meters.
How do divers access the Double Arch Reef?
The site is primarily accessed from shore via Xwejni Bay, involving a significant surface swim. Boat access is also an option, with boats anchoring directly over the reef.
Is Double Arch Reef suitable for all certified divers?
No, this is considered an advanced dive due to its depth, the extended surface swim, and potential for varying surface conditions. Divers should hold an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent experience.
What kind of marine life might I see here?
Barracudas are frequently sighted, sometimes in large shoals. Groupers can be found in deeper areas. The arches themselves host colourful sponges and golden cup corals. You might also spot blennies, nudibranchs, anemones, slipper lobsters, and octopus.
Are there any special environmental considerations for this site?
Yes, near the shore entry, divers pass through an area with active salt pans. It's crucial to only walk on the rocky ridges dividing them to avoid damage or contamination during access.
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