Diving Cirkewwa Right Arch, Malta: A Submerged Cavern

Cirkewwa Right Arch is a geological formation sculpted by time, essentially a cavern that has collapsed, leaving behind a magnificent arch. The top of this natural arch begins its ascent at merely 7 metres below the surface, providing a dramatic entry point for divers while its base extends to a depth of 18 metres. This structure offers a compelling exploration, with light filtering through the opening, illuminating the sharp edges and contours of the rock as you approach.

The dive typically commences from the shelter of a nearby protective reef, a vibrant ecosystem teeming with seagrasses and various marine algae. This initial reef section acts as a soft introduction to the deeper geological features, gradually leading you towards the more dramatic architecture of the arch. As you navigate the reef, you’re already immersing yourself in the rich biodiversity that characterises the Maltese waters, setting the stage for the arch itself.

Once you reach the Cirkewwa Right Arch, the scale of the collapsed cavern becomes evident. The arch creates an inviting passage, a natural gateway through the rock, which you can easily swim through. It's truly a sight to behold, with a variety of marine life taking refuge within its shadows and along its textured surfaces, making every turn a chance to discover something new.

The resident fauna beneath the arch includes several species that thrive in such sheltered environments. Keep a keen eye out for barracuda (Sphyraena barracuda) patrolling the archway, often seen as solitary hunters or in small groups. Demoiselles (Chromis chromis) will dart in and out of the crevices, adding splashes of color to the rocky seascape. The dark recesses and cracks provide perfect hiding spots for moray eels (Muraena helena), their heads occasionally peeking out from their rocky lairs, observing the passing divers with quiet intensity. And if you're lucky, you might spot a nimble amberjack (Seriola dumerili) cruising by, a testament to the healthy ecosystem.

This site is also known for its potential to be combined with a dive to the nearby Tugboat Rozi wreck. Such a combination offers a varied dive profile, moving from natural reef and cavern structures to an artificial reef, enriching the overall experience and allowing you to explore different aspects of the underwater world in a single outing. The proximity of these sites adds flexibility to your dive plans, offering more exploration opportunities.