Diving atParadise BAY, Cirkewwa (Norte) (Malta)
Starting a dive at Paradise Bay often begins in Sussie's Pool, a calm, shallow entry point that sets the tone for a relaxed exploration. This area, with depths ranging from 3 to 11 meters / 10 to 36 feet, serves as a natural preparation zone before venturing further along the reef wall. Its inviting conditions make it an excellent choice for divers seeking a smooth transition into Malta's underwater scenery.
Current morning readings from Paradise BAY, Cirkewwa (Norte) indicate an air temperature of 22°C. Surface wave heights are averaging around 0.5 m at this time. These local measurements provide a baseline for your daily dive planning.
Dive Site Location & Key Facts
Everything you need to know about this dive site.
Dive Site Overview
What sets Paradise Bay apart is its progression from a sheltered entry into a diverse underwater landscape, offering both natural formations and historical elements. The typical dive starts within Sussie's Pool, a natural basin ideal for buoyancy checks and initial orientation.
From here, divers navigate towards a distinct drop-off, turning right to follow a captivating wall for about 15 meters. Along this trajectory, observant divers may discover beautiful amphorae resting between 18 and 20 meters / 59 and 66 feet, silent witnesses to ancient maritime history. The dive continues to evolve with engaging passages between rock formations, eventually leading to a charming mini arch situated around 10 meters / 33 feet.
After exploring these features, the route gracefully circles back towards Sussie's Pool, concluding an experience suitable for Open Water certified divers. This site offers an array of experiences, from gentle reef exploration to encountering significant topography and historical artifacts, all within a protected marine environment.
Good visibility, often 20-30 meters / 66-98 feet, generally enhances the ability to appreciate the site's stunning landscapes.
Paradise BAY, Cirkewwa (Norte)
Conditions are Excellent
Best Dive Window
07:00 - 14:00
Optimal conditions expected
Current conditions near Paradise BAY, Cirkewwa (Norte) show 22° air, 24° sea temperature, 0.6 m waves, and 19 km/h wind. Forecast data is refreshed regularly to ensure accuracy.
Best Time to Dive
Conditions generally favor diving at Paradise Bay from spring through autumn, when the weather offers its best profile. During these months, particularly from June to September, the dive score is consistently rated "Good" (8), benefiting from average wave heights often below 0.9 meters and minimal rain. July, for example, sees an average air temperature of nearly 28°C / 82°F and negligible rainfall, making surface intervals pleasant. As the year progresses, months like October and November still offer "Good" (7) diving scores, with air temperatures around 23°C / 73°F and 19°C / 66°F respectively, though wave heights tend to increase slightly and rainfall becomes more present. The winter months, from December to February, present more moderate conditions, with "Moderate" (6) dive scores. Air temperatures drop to around 15°C / 59°F, and wave heights can average above 1.7 meters, alongside increased wind speeds and higher chances of rain. Paradise Bay is diveable year-round, but those seeking the calmest seas and warmest conditions will find the late spring to early autumn period most accommodating.
PEAK SEASON SCORE
Scores combine air & water temps, waves, wind & rainfall for overall conditions.
BEST MONTHS TO DIVE
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
Navigating the underwater terrain at Paradise Bay feels intuitive, beginning with a calm shore entry via purpose-built access points. Divers are quickly immersed into visibility that consistently ranges between 20 to 30 meters / 66 to 98 feet, offering expansive views. The minimal current typically found here ensures a relaxed pace, allowing ample time to explore the unique combination of the wall, rocky passages, and the distinctive mini arch. While systemic data on water temperature is limited, conditions from spring to autumn are generally warmer. This combination of clear waters, gentle currents, and varied topography provides an engaging experience, suitable for divers to hone their skills or simply enjoy a comfortable exploration without significant challenges.
Dive Difficulty & Safety Guidelines
This dive site is well-suited for Open Water certified divers due to its manageable depths and generally calm conditions. However, divers intending to explore the deeper amphorae or engage with the small caves and tunnel systems, also present in the broader Cirkewwa Marine Park, should possess appropriate advanced training, such as deep or cavern specialties, and carry a torch. Maintaining good buoyancy control is always beneficial, especially when navigating through passages or near delicate rock formations. Minimal current is typically encountered, but divers should always be aware of local conditions and plan their dive accordingly. As part of a protected marine area, adherence to responsible diving practices is crucial. This includes avoiding contact with marine life or the seabed and refraining from disturbing any historical artifacts. Always dive within your training and comfort limits, and consider diving with a local guide who understands the site's nuances.
Recommended Equipment
Current and surface separation risk. Local briefing strongly recommended.
- Dive Computer
- DSMB
- Reel / Spool
- Hard-soled Dive Boots
This gear list is based on verified equipment signals for Paradise BAY, Cirkewwa (Norte), Malta. Always confirm final gear choices with your dive operator, guide, or liveaboard.
Recommended Dive Suit
3-5mm wetsuit usually provides adequate warmth in water around this temperature. A hood or vest is suggested for sensitive divers due to surface winds. Surface intervals may feel cooler. Those diving at Paradise BAY, Cirkewwa (Norte) today will likely encounter water temperatures in the region of 24°C (75°F). Surface air temperatures are resting at 22°C (72°F).
Forecasts suggest rising temperatures later this week. A warming trend is expected over the next few days.
Conditions can vary slightly across different parts of the same dive site.
Emergency & Medical Support
Essential information to help you plan your dive trip to PARADISE BAY, Cirkewwa (Norte).
Hyperbaric chambers are a critical part of dive safety infrastructure. Availability varies significantly by region, and not all dive areas have immediate access.
Before diving, it's recommended to:
- confirm nearest medical facilities
- check emergency procedures with local dive operators
- ensure dive insurance covers evacuation if required
Divers Alert Network
Diving emergency assistance available through DAN Europe.
+39 0642115685- 24/7 emergency hotline
- Diving medical assistance
- Evacuation coordination
Emergency contacts are provided for reference. Always verify local emergency services before diving.
Closest Listed Hyperbaric Chambers
Showing listed hyperbaric chamber facilities within 200 km of this dive site.
Distances are approximate straight-line distances and may not reflect emergency travel time.
Gozo
24/7 ListedICU CapableVictoria, Malta•Approx. 10 km straight-line
Gozo
24/7 ListedICU CapableFacility Details
Information is provided for reference and planning purposes only. Dive Navigator does not verify operational status, staffing, availability, or quality of care at listed facilities. In an emergency, contact local emergency services, DAN, your dive operator, or the chamber directly. Do not travel to a facility without calling ahead.
Hyperbaric Unit - Mater Dei Hospital
24/7 ListedICU CapableMsida, Malta•Approx. 18 km straight-line
Hyperbaric Unit - Mater Dei Hospital
24/7 ListedICU CapableFacility Details
Information is provided for reference and planning purposes only. Dive Navigator does not verify operational status, staffing, availability, or quality of care at listed facilities. In an emergency, contact local emergency services, DAN, your dive operator, or the chamber directly. Do not travel to a facility without calling ahead.
Azienda Ospedaliera per l' Emergenza Cannizzaro
24/7 ListedICU CapableCatania, Italy•Approx. 185 km straight-line
Azienda Ospedaliera per l' Emergenza Cannizzaro
24/7 ListedICU CapableFacility Details
Information is provided for reference and planning purposes only. Dive Navigator does not verify operational status, staffing, availability, or quality of care at listed facilities. In an emergency, contact local emergency services, DAN, your dive operator, or the chamber directly. Do not travel to a facility without calling ahead.
Marine Life at Paradise BAY, Cirkewwa (Norte)
As divers traverse the underwater landscape of Paradise Bay, they'll encounter a variety of marine life thriving amidst the walls and reefs. Groupers often shelter within crevices, while octopus and moray eels might be spotted hiding amongst the rocks. Schools of bream and barracudas are not uncommon, particularly in open water sections. The natural arch formations are often adorned with sponges, providing habitat for smaller creatures. During the warmer months, there's an increased chance of observing pelagic species like tuna and amberjacks cruising by. Even sandy patches can reveal rays, adding to the diversity of sightings within this protected marine park.
Dive Sites Near Paradise BAY, Cirkewwa (Norte)
View all dive sites in MaltaDiscover more underwater gems in this area.
Dive Centers Near Paradise BAY, Cirkewwa (Norte)
Working Hours
Today: 08:00 - 17:00
Apnea Total Malta
Dawn Diving
Mad Shark Diving Malta
Plongée Malte Club Francophone
Blue Waters Dive Cove Diving Centre
Octopus Garden Diving Centre
Seashell Dive Centre
Nearest Airports
Nearest airports to help plan travel to this dive area.
Search Flights
Check available flights and routes on Expedia, using the nearby airports listed in this section.
Search Flights on ExpediaFrequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum depth for diving at Paradise Bay?
The maximum recommended depth for diving at Paradise Bay is around 30 meters / 98 feet. Specific features like Sussie's Pool range from 3-11 meters, while amphorae are found deeper at 18-20 meters.
Is Paradise Bay suitable for beginner divers?
Yes, Paradise Bay is considered suitable for Open Water certified divers. The dive usually begins in Sussie's Pool, which offers a shallow and calm entry, making it an excellent starting point for less experienced divers.
What kind of marine life might I see at Paradise Bay?
Divers commonly spot groupers, octopus, moray eels, scorpionfish, bream, and barracudas. During warmer months, there's also a possibility of encountering tuna and amberjacks, adding to the site's biodiversity.
Are there any wrecks to explore at Paradise Bay?
Paradise Bay primarily features natural reef structures, walls, and historical amphorae. While the broader Cirkewwa Marine Park, where Paradise Bay is located, is home to popular wrecks like the Rozi and P29, these are separate dive sites from the described Paradise Bay circuit.
What are the typical visibility conditions at the site?
Visibility at Paradise Bay is generally good, often extending between 20 to 30 meters / 66 to 98 feet. This clear water allows for excellent appreciation of the site's underwater topography and marine inhabitants.
How accessible is Paradise Bay for divers?
The site is easily accessible via a shore entry, with purpose-built entry points that include ladders and platforms. Facilities such as parking, shaded areas, and nearby kiosks are available, enhancing the convenience for divers.
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Paradise BAY, Cirkewwa (Norte)
Conditions are Excellent
Best Dive Window
07:00 - 14:00
Optimal conditions expected
Current conditions near Paradise BAY, Cirkewwa (Norte) show 22° air, 24° sea temperature, 0.6 m waves, and 19 km/h wind. Forecast data is refreshed regularly to ensure accuracy.