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.
Tonight's objective overview for Paradise BAY, Cirkewwa (Norte) shows an air temperature of 16.5°C. The measured surface conditions include wave heights around 0.36m. This environmental data is logged for the close of the day.
Dive Site Coordinates
35.9872, 14.3308
Dive Site Characteristics
Key Dive Site Facts
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.
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.
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
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
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Verified equipment recommendations for this dive site are being reviewed and may be added as additional source checks are completed.
Recommended Dive Suit
In these water temperatures, 5mm wetsuit is a common choice for recreational diving. A thermal robe or jacket is recommended between dives. Longer dive profiles can make thermal protection more important than short exploratory dives.
Conditions at Paradise BAY, Cirkewwa (Norte) currently place the water temperature near 18°C (65°F). Surface air temperatures are resting at 17°C (62°F).
Temperatures look set to gradually increase over the next several days. A warming trend is expected over the next few days.
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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Nearest Airports
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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.
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Frequently 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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