Malta: Open Water Course (PADI)

Taking the plunge into scuba diving is an exciting milestone, and Malta’s PADI Open Water Course offers an accessible, well-rounded introduction to this captivating activity. Over three days, you’ll learn everything from essential theory to practical skills, culminating in your certification to explore the seas around the world. Whether you’re a complete novice or have some water confidence, this course is designed to build your skills safely while giving you plenty of unforgettable underwater sights.

One of the standout features of this experience is the comprehensive support provided by certified instructors, who guide you through every step with patience and expertise. Plus, all the necessary equipment is included, removing the stress of sourcing gear yourself. A slight consideration is that the course length and schedule, with days mostly in the mornings, require some planning but are generally flexible if you’re staying in Malta for a while. This experience suits those eager to gain a globally recognized certification, enjoy small-group settings, and potentially extend their adventures with more dives.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Equipment: No need to rent gear separately — everything you need is provided.
• Expert Guidance: Certified instructors ensure safety and personalized attention.
• Flexible Learning: Theoretical parts are supported by videos and eLearning, fitting modern learning styles.
• Real-World Practice: You’ll complete over 20 exercises in a pool or similar conditions and do 4 open water dives.
• Accessible to Beginners: No prerequisites other than being over 12 years old; no prior experience needed.
• Authentic Certification: You leave with a PADI certification recognized worldwide, opening up diving opportunities everywhere.

What to Expect from the Malta PADI Open Water Course

This course is a finely balanced mix of classroom theory, confined water practice, and open water exploration. The goal? To teach you the skills and knowledge necessary to enjoy diving independently and safely, following international standards from ISO, RSTC, and ANSI.

Theoretical Learning

Your journey begins with classroom-style sessions supported by videos and digital study materials, which you can access via eLearning. You will be reading six chapters, each followed by a short quiz, alongside instructor-led discussions that clarify key concepts. This modular approach allows you to learn at a relaxed pace and revisit tricky topics if needed.

Practical Water Training

The real excitement kicks in with over 20 confined water exercises, which can take place in a pool or similar calm water conditions — think clear, shallow, and gentle. These exercises are designed to help you become familiar with all the scuba gear, including masks, fins, regulators, and buoyancy control devices. The instructors are attentive, and reviewers mention that their patience and professionalism make a big difference — “the instructor was very thorough and made me feel confident in my abilities,” said one participant.

Open Water Dives

On days two and three, you’ll perform four open water dives that gradually increase in depth, maxing out at 18 meters. These dives are scheduled carefully, often in the morning, to maximize good conditions and visibility. The dive sites are chosen for their calmness and clarity, making them ideal for beginners. Transportation from the dive center to these sites is included, easing logistical worries.

The Experience on the Water

Participants have highlighted how smooth the process is, thanks to small group sizes (limited to 4 participants), which ensures personalized attention. The reviews also point out the value of the guided approach: “The instructor explained everything clearly and was very patient, which helped me relax under water.” Snacks and water are provided during the outings, keeping energy levels up.

Certification and Beyond

Upon completing the course, you’ll receive a PADI certification, a globally recognized qualification that unlocks diving around the world. For many, this achievement is the highlight, enabling spontaneous dives during future travels.

The Logistics: How It Fits Into Your Malta Trip

Starting in the afternoon on day one, the course fits well into a Malta itinerary, especially if you’re planning shorter stays or day trips. The following two days are in the mornings, giving you the afternoons free to explore Malta’s vibrant towns, beaches, or historical sites. The meeting point is conveniently located in St. Paul’s Bay, accessible via Ramon Perellos Street, and the activity ends back there — no complicated transfers needed.

While the course fee covers most essentials—full equipment, instruction, certification, and snacks—keep in mind that extras like ferry trips to Gozo or additional food expenses aren’t included. So, plan accordingly if you want to explore further or dine out afterward.

Weather and Conditions

Malta’s warm Mediterranean climate typically means good weather for diving. However, weather conditions can influence schedule adjustments, especially in the mornings, but the instructors are flexible and will adapt as necessary. Reviewers note that the water is often calm and clear, making it ideal for beginners.

Group Size and Language Support

With small groups limited to four participants, you get more individual attention, which many find invaluable when learning new skills. The courses are offered in English, Spanish, and Italian, accommodating a broad range of travelers.

What You Need to Bring

Just pack swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and water. No need to worry about bringing your own gear—it’s all provided. Be sure to avoid alcohol and drugs the day of your dives, as safety standards demand.

Who Is This Course Best For?

This course is perfectly suited for beginners, those who are over 12 years old, and want to earn a reputable diving certification while enjoying Malta’s scenic waters. It’s also great for travelers who prefer small group experiences and value detailed instruction. However, it’s not recommended for pregnant women, individuals with back or heart problems, non-swimmers, or anyone with certain medical conditions like respiratory issues or epilepsy.

If you’re someone with a curiosity for the underwater world but without prior experience, this course offers a gentle, structured entry point. Even if you’re unsure about fully committing, the ability to cancel with a 24-hour notice and the option to book now and pay later adds flexibility.

The Bottom Line

This PADI Open Water Course in Malta offers a well-rounded, practical introduction to scuba diving, with safety and professionalism at its core. The inclusion of all necessary gear, expert guidance, and the chance to explore Malta’s underwater scenery make it excellent value, especially for those keen to make their first steps into diving.

The small group size and flexible scheduling are definite plus points, ensuring you don’t feel lost in a crowd or rushed through the learning process. Plus, the certification that results from this course opens doors to diving adventures worldwide, turning an impressive Malta experience into a lifelong hobby.

If you’re looking for a safe, beginner-friendly, and fun way to start your diving journey in Malta, this course ticks most boxes — especially if you’re eager to learn from qualified instructors in a relaxed setting.

FAQ

What is included in the course fee?
All necessary scuba equipment, four open water dives, one confined water session, digital study materials, instructor guidance, transportation to dive sites, and snacks are included. Certification fees are also covered.

Do I need to have previous experience in water activities?
No, there are no prerequisites. The course is designed for complete beginners over 12 years old.

How long does the course take?
The course runs over three days. Day one is in the afternoon, with days two and three mostly in the mornings, usually between 8:30 AM and 1:30 PM, subject to weather and logistics.

What should I bring?
Swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and water. All scuba gear is provided, so no need to bring your own.

Is the course suitable for children?
Yes, participants must be at least 12 years old. Minors need parental consent if participating alone.

What if the weather is bad?
The course schedule may be adjusted to ensure safety and optimal diving conditions, as the instructors are flexible and experienced in dealing with weather changes.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Booking now with a pay later option offers extra flexibility.

Whether you’re dreaming of exploring the vibrant marine life or simply want to conquer a new skill, Malta’s Open Water Course offers a structured, enjoyable, and safe way to start your diving journey. With expert instructors, all gear provided, and the chance to learn in calm, clear waters, it’s an experience that’s hard to beat for first-timers eager to see what lies beneath the surface.