SSI Try Scuba Diving in the sea

SSI Try Scuba Diving in the Sea: A Genuine Intro to Malta’s Underwater World

Thinking about trying out diving but feeling unsure if you’re ready for all the gear and skills? This SSI Try Scuba experience offered at the Octopus Garden Diving Center in Malta has become a popular choice for first-timers. With a focus on safety, small group sizes, and professional guidance, it provides a taste of the underwater adventure without the need for prior certification.

What we love most? The small group sizes—limited to four participants per instructor—which means plenty of personal attention. Plus, the activity is designed to be accessible, even for those who don’t have diving licenses or experience. However, one thing to consider is the activity’s timing—scheduled at 3 p.m. from Monday to Friday—which might not suit everyone’s schedule but ensures calm seas and good conditions.

This tour is perfect for curious travelers eager to experience Malta’s marine beauty without diving full-on into certification. If you’re comfortable in the water, healthy, and eager for a safe, guided introduction, this experience could be a memorable highlight of your trip.

Key Points

• Small Group Focus: Max of four participants ensures personalized instruction and safety.
• No Prior Skills Needed: Designed for beginners, no license or experience required.
• Professional Instructors: Guided by experienced German diving professionals.
• High-Quality Equipment: Tested gear guarantees comfort and safety during your water time.
• Location: Activities take place right at the dive center’s house reef, making logistics simple.
• Cost-Effective: At $56, it offers a well-rounded introduction to scuba with all essential equipment included.

Overview of the Experience

The Octopus Garden Diving Center in Malta has carved out a reputation for delivering safe and well-organized introductory diving experiences. With over 30 years of experience, they know how to make first-time divers feel comfortable while ensuring safety at all times.

The experience kicks off with a theory briefing led by a SSI-certified professional, which is a perfect way for first-timers to get acquainted with the basics—think of it as the “what, why, and how” of scuba, minus the intimidating jargon. After that, you’ll get to try on the high-quality, tested diving equipment, which is included in the price, and participate in a brief safety and technique review.

Your underwater adventure takes place at the house reef directly at the dive center. This means no long transfers or boat rides—just a short walk from the center to the water. Expect about 30 minutes of actual water time, which is often more than enough for beginners to get a real feel for the underwater environment.

What the Water Time Looks Like

Once in the water, you’ll be accompanied by your dive instructor at a maximum depth of 5 meters. This depth is ideal for beginners because it offers visibility and safety, allowing you to take in Malta’s vibrant marine life without the pressure of deep diving. Multiple reviewers mention that the guides are attentive and very reassuring, with one noting, “I felt completely safe under their guidance.”

The Instruction and Supervision

The German instructors are praised for their professionalism and patience. Many reviews highlight that the instructors take time to explain everything clearly, which reassures nervous participants. One reviewer described their guide as “friendly and very knowledgeable,” making the whole experience both fun and educational.

The Group Dynamics

Limited to 4 participants per instructor, the tour maximizes personalized attention. That means fewer worries about feeling rushed or overlooked—a common concern for first-time divers. It’s clear that the team values safety and comfort above all, which is a significant plus for hesitant travelers.

Location and Logistics

The activity begins at the Octopus Garden dive center behind the Gillieru Harbour Hotel in St. Paul’s Bay. This location is convenient for those staying in nearby resorts or hotels, and since the activity is centered around the house reef, there’s no need for additional transfers or boat trips.

Participants are advised to bring swimwear, but cameras are not allowed during the water session—probably for safety reasons and to protect marine life. Since the activity takes place at 3 p.m., you might prefer scheduling it early in the day if you want to leave room for other activities.

It’s worth noting that hotel pickup or transfer services are not included, so plan to arrive at the dive center on your own. The activity duration is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, including briefing and gear-up time.

Pricing and Value

The price of $56 per person is quite reasonable for a beginner scuba experience in Malta, especially considering the small group size, professional guidance, and high-quality equipment. When you compare this to other similar experiences, it offers excellent value—you’re paying for safety, personalized service, and a memorable introduction to the underwater world.

Many reviews emphasize the value for money, with one mentioning, “For what I paid, I felt I got an incredibly safe and fun introduction, which I’ll remember forever.” For those dipping their toes into scuba without committing to certification, this activity offers a solid foundation and a taste of Malta’s marine beauty.

The Experience in Detail

Pre-Water Briefing

Expect a thorough yet approachable theory session, where your instructor will explain basic safety rules, breathing techniques, and how the equipment works. This briefing is critical because it sets the tone for your confidence underwater. Several reviewers appreciated how clear and patient the instructors were, especially for nervous first-timers.

Gear Fitting and Preparation

Getting fitted with high-quality equipment is part of the process. You’ll wear a wetsuit, mask, fins, and regulator, all tested and comfortable. Many reviewers felt that the equipment was well-maintained, adding to their confidence.

In-Water Exploration

Once in the water, your instructor will guide you through basic movements and help you get comfortable breathing underwater. You’ll have about 30 minutes to explore the vibrant marine environment, which includes the house reef’s features—likely colorful fish, coral formations, and perhaps even some sea creatures.

The depth of 5 meters is perfect for beginners because it keeps the environment safe and allows for excellent visibility. It’s common for participants to comment on how peaceful and almost surreal the underwater world feels, even in such a short time.

Post-Activity Reflection

After surfacing, many examine their gear and discuss their experience. Several reviewers mention feeling a sense of achievement and newfound respect for marine life. The instructors are available to answer questions and offer encouragement for future diving adventures.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal if you:

• Are curious about scuba diving but unsure if it’s for you.
• Want a safe, guided introduction without committing to a full certification.
• Prefer small, intimate groups for more personalized attention.
• Are comfortable in water and can swim safely.
• Are not pregnant, have back problems, or mobility issues, as these are restrictions.
• Want to explore Malta’s marine life without a long or complicated process.

It’s less suited for children under 10, people with certain health conditions, or those who prefer more extensive diving experiences. But overall, it’s a fantastic way to test the waters and see if diving is your next adventure.

The Sum Up

For travelers seeking a safe, affordable, and memorable first encounter with scuba diving, this SSI Try Scuba experience at Malta is a standout option. The small group size and professional guidance ensure you’re well looked after, while the location at the house reef provides an easy, stress-free environment to witness Malta’s underwater beauty.

It offers great value for money, especially for those who want a taste of the underwater world without diving into certification. The activity is ideal for those comfortable in water, eager to learn, and looking for a fun, safe introduction.

While it’s scheduled at a fixed time and doesn’t include transfers, the convenience of the location and quality of the experience make it worth planning around. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or part of a small group, this activity could be one of your Malta highlights.

FAQ

Is prior diving experience required?
No, this activity is specifically designed for beginners without any prior diving skills or license.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers a theory briefing, full tested diving equipment, and about 30 minutes of water activity, all guided by experienced instructors.

Where does the activity take place?
It happens directly at the dive center’s house reef, located behind the Gillieru Harbour Hotel in St. Paul’s Bay.

What should I bring?
Just swimwear; no other gear or equipment is necessary. Cameras are not allowed during water activity.

Can children participate?
Children under 10 are not permitted to join this experience.

What safety measures are in place?
You’ll be guided by certified professional instructors who adhere to their own security concept, ensuring a safe and controlled environment.

Is transportation included?
No, participants are responsible for their own travel to the dive center, as no transfers or hotel pickups are provided.

This tour offers a fantastic balance of safety, fun, and value, making it a top choice for those curious about discovering what lies beneath Malta’s waters. Whether you’re a total beginner or simply seeking a low-pressure introduction, this activity delivers an authentic glimpse into the underwater world with professional guidance every step of the way.