Paradise Diving School

Located at the northern tip of Malta in Cirkewwa, Paradise Diving School offers a strategic base for exploring the Mediterranean's most iconic underwater sites. The centre operates from its own private beach at the Paradise Bay Resort Hotel, just a short walk from the Gozo ferry terminal. This location provides a direct gateway to the waters surrounding Malta, Gozo, and the islands of Comino and Cominotto.

Whether you are looking to complete your first certification or training for a professional career, the centre is open year-round. The proximity to the ferry terminal makes it an easy transition for those travelling between the islands, while the Blue Flag status of the local beach ensures a high standard of environmental care at the point of departure.

The centre is led by Neville, a PADI Course Director Silver Elite, and Rob, an instructor with over 16 years of experience. This level of expertise is reflected in the centre's history, having received the Malta Tourism Award for best dive instructor multiple times over a decade.

Training is conducted through the PADI system, covering everything from initial entry-level courses to the Instructor Development Course (IDC). The team is experienced in handling divers of all levels, from those making their first bubbles to professionals honing their skills.

Paradise Diving School provides a comprehensive range of PADI training. For those starting their journey, they offer the Open Water Diver and Advanced Open Water Diver courses.

For divers looking to expand their skill set, specialty courses are available, including Nitrox, Deep Diver, and Wreck Diver. The centre also facilitates professional progression through the Rescue Diver, Divemaster, and Instructor Development Course (IDC) programmes.

The centre operates three boats per day, using speedboats to reach dive sites quickly. These vessels allow for efficient transit to the various wreck sites and reefs scattered around the archipelago, including the islands of Comino and Gozo.

The marine life here is diverse, with many species inhabiting the various wrecks and reefs. You will regularly encounter groupers (Epinephelus), moray eels (Muraenidae), octopus, and various reef fish. The rocky areas and seagrass meadows are home to crustaceans such as lobster and shrimp, as well as crabs and hermit crabs.

Macro life is abundant throughout the area, particularly around the caves and tunnels. Keep an eye out for nudibranchs, scorpionfish, and various species of sea stars.

In the warmer summer months, you may see larger pelagics such as barracuda, rays, and occasionally small tuna or swordfish. The reefs are also populated by colourful sponges, corals, and tube worms, which provide a rich habitat for smaller inhabitants like cuttlefish and various molluscs.

The area is subject to varying conditions depending on the site. At Cominotto Reef, currents can be strong, and the use of a DSMB is recommended during the summer months due to increased boat traffic. Many of the cave and lagoon sites are well-sheltered, though visibility can reach up to 30 metres in optimal conditions.