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Gozo · Malta · Mediterranean

Inland Sea, Gozo: Gateway to the Azure Window Tunnel

Descend into Gozo's famed Inland Sea, a saltwater lagoon connected to the open ocean by a dramatic tunnel, accessible to all levels of divers.

What makes this site special

  • Dive starts in a tranquil inland lagoon.
  • Navigate an impressive natural rock tunnel.
  • Emergence onto a dramatic sea wall.
  • Suitable for divers of all experience levels.
  • High visibility, typical for Gozo.
  • Unique geological and dive experience.

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Inland Sea about the site

Diving the Inland Sea starts in an almost surreal environment: a landlocked lagoon of seawater, accessed by a small pebble beach, providing a tranquil and protected entry point. The journey begins with a gentle swim across this shallow, often sun-drenched pool, preparing you for the transition into the deeper, darker world beyond. The unique geological formation, a result of millions of years of erosion, creates a distinct atmosphere from the very first fin strokes. You'll sense the gradual shift in environment as you approach the main attraction – the iconic tunnel leading out to the open sea.

The true adventure of the Inland Sea unfolds as you enter the impressive tunnel, a natural wonder carved through the towering cliffs. This long, relatively wide passage acts as a marine highway, connecting the calm waters of the lagoon to the vibrant blue of the Mediterranean. As you navigate the tunnel, the light gradually changes, shifting from the diffused glow of the lagoon to the intense azure of the open water. This transition, a visual spectacle in itself, is a defining characteristic of the dive, creating a sense of exploration and discovery with every fin kick.

Upon exiting the tunnel, you emerge onto a dramatic wall face that plunges into the depths, alive with the characteristic biodiversity of the Maltese waters. While the specific species found here are consistent with the region's rich ecosystem, the experience of encountering them after the tunnel swim adds another dimension. The shelter provided by the lagoon and the tunnel fosters a unique micro-environment before opening up to the larger currents and more varied life of the open sea, inviting you to explore the crevices and overhangs of the main wall.

Diving Inland Sea: the marine life you’ll meet

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Diving conditions

The Inland Sea is accessible to divers of all levels, making it an inclusive site for both beginners and experienced individuals. The currents within the tunnel and the open water section are generally mild, contributing to a relaxed diving experience. Visibility here can reach up to 50 metres, offering clear views of the underwater topography and marine life.

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Frequently asked questions about Inland Sea

What experience level is suitable for diving Inland Sea?

Inland Sea is accessible to divers of all levels, so you can choose it whether you are a beginner or an experienced diver. The dive begins from a tranquil, protected inland lagoon reached by a small pebble beach, offering a distinctive setting before you enter the natural tunnel and continue toward open water.

What are the currents like at Inland Sea?

At Inland Sea, currents within the tunnel and the open-water section are generally mild. You can expect a relaxed diving experience while swimming from the lagoon through the natural rock passage and toward the sea wall. The lagoon and tunnel provide shelter before the route opens into the larger open-water environment.

What will you see while diving Inland Sea?

At Inland Sea, you can see the transition from a sunlit inland lagoon into a darker natural rock tunnel, followed by an emergence onto a dramatic sea wall. The wall includes crevices and overhangs, while the surrounding Maltese waters provide characteristic regional biodiversity and varied marine life.

What makes the diving route at Inland Sea distinctive?

Inland Sea offers a distinctive geological journey from a landlocked seawater lagoon through an impressive, relatively wide natural tunnel to the open Mediterranean. Light changes from the lagoon’s diffused glow to the intense blue outside, while visibility can reach up to fifty metres for clear views of the underwater topography and marine life.