Comino Island, a picturesque gem of the Maltese archipelago, offers scuba divers an unparalleled underwater odyssey. Equipped with specialized private boats, adventurers can embark on a personalized journey to explore the island’s captivating dive sites. From the mesmerizing Inner Lantern Point to the historic Patrol Boat P31 wreck and the mystical Santa Maria Caves, each dive promises an immersive experience in the vibrant marine life of the Mediterranean. With experienced guides and all necessary gear provided, this scuba trip promises to leave divers with memories that will linger long after they’ve surfaced.
Key Points
- A specialized dive boat with a skipper ensures a personalized scuba diving experience around the captivating dive sites of Comino Island.
- The dive trip includes visits to three renowned locations, such as Inner Lantern Point, Patrol Boat P31 wreck, and Santa Maria Caves.
- The package covers fuel for the entire trip, rental of certified dive gear, and comprehensive safety briefings before each dive.
- AOWD certification or equivalent is required, and an instructor can be available for an additional fee.
- The dive sites offer a range of underwater environments, from depth-intensive tunnels to vertical wrecks, catering to experienced divers.
Comino Island Dive Location
Nestled in the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean, Comino Island is a renowned destination for scuba divers seeking to explore its pristine underwater landscapes.
This stunning island boasts a wealth of captivating dive sites, each offering unique marine environments and diverse ecosystems. From the intriguing underwater tunnels and coral walls of Inner Lantern Point to the impressive wreck of the Patrol Boat P31, divers can expect to encounter a vibrant array of colorful fish, octopuses, and starfish.
The Santa Maria Caves, with their numerous exploration routes and shelters, further add to the allure of this diving haven, making it a must-visit destination for both novice and experienced underwater enthusiasts.
Ready to set sail again? More boat adventures we've reviewed in Kalkara
Pricing and Booking Details
The dive trip to Comino Island is priced from Kč12,868 per group (up to 2 people).
The 7.5-hour excursion offers a private or small group experience with:
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
- Reserve now & pay later option available
- English-speaking guides
- Specialized dive boat with skipper and fuel included
- Light refreshments such as water, coffee, tea, and snacks
Divers must possess an Advanced Open Water Diver (AOWD) certification or equivalent and dive with a partner.
An instructor can be arranged for an additional fee with advance notice.
Exploring Inner Lantern Point
One of the primary dive sites on the Comino Island excursion is Inner Lantern Point, renowned for its underwater tunnels and vibrant coral walls. This depth-intensive site attracts experienced divers due to its challenging currents and depth profile. Divers can expect to encounter a diverse array of marine life, including:
| Sea Creature | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Colorful Fish | Abundant | Wide variety of species |
| Octopuses | Occasional | Shy but fascinating to observe |
| Starfish | Common | Various shapes and sizes |
The site’s captivating features and abundant wildlife make Inner Lantern Point a highlight of the Comino Island diving experience, though it’s best suited for those with advanced certification and comfort in stronger underwater conditions.
Visiting Patrol Boat P31
Towering 52 meters above the seabed, the Patrol Boat P31 sits almost vertically, offering divers a unique experience.
The wreck sits at a depth of 20 meters at the bow and 18 meters at the stern, providing an opportunity to explore its intricate features:
-
Experienced divers can descend into the wreck’s interior, navigating through its compartments and corridors.
-
The vessel’s silhouette creates an impressive backdrop, attracting a variety of marine life, including schools of fish.
-
Divers can observe the corals and algae that have colonized the wreck, showcasing the resilience of underwater ecosystems.
-
The wreck’s inclination adds an element of adventure, requiring divers to navigate carefully to ensure safe and memorable dives.
-
Photographers can capture the wreck’s unique profile and the vibrant colors of the surrounding marine life.
Discovering Santa Maria Caves
Several unique exploration routes await divers at the Santa Maria Caves. Descending to a depth of around 18 meters, divers can weave through a maze of caverns and shelters, uncovering a hidden underwater world. The caves offer sheltered areas and alcoves to observe the diverse marine life, including sponges, nudibranchs, and schooling fish.
| Dive Site | Depth (m) | Duration (mins) |
|---|---|---|
| Santa Maria Caves | 18 | 45 |
| Inner Lantern Point | 25-35 | 45 |
| Patrol Boat P31 | 18-20 | 45 |
The Santa Maria Caves provide an exciting and immersive diving experience, allowing adventurous divers to discover the intricate network of underwater caverns and observe the vibrant ecosystem within.
Dive Trip Itinerary Overview
Participants first greet and board the specialized dive boat, eager to embark on their underwater adventure.
After preparing their dive equipment, they’ll enjoy a scenic journey across the waters, taking in views of Malta and Comino.
The itinerary includes:
- Three dives, each lasting 45 minutes, at the Inner Lantern Point, Patrol Boat P31, and Santa Maria Caves.
- Surface intervals with tea, coffee, and light snacks.
- Safety briefings and guidance from a certified dive guide.
- Post-dive discussions and the opportunity to review photos and videos of the experience.
Inclusions and Amenities
The dive trip includes a private boat with a skipper, ensuring a personalized and seamless experience. The package covers all the necessary amenities for an unforgettable underwater adventure.
| Inclusions | Details |
|---|---|
| Boat & Skipper | Specialized dive boat with experienced captain |
| Fuel | Fuel for the entire duration of the trip |
| Dive Sites | Visits to three renowned dive locations |
| Safety Briefing | Comprehensive safety orientation before dives |
| Refreshments | Light snacks, water, coffee, and tea provided |
| Dive Equipment | Rental of certified dive gear and guide services |
| Transportation | To and from the agreed marina location |
The comprehensive inclusions make this dive trip a turnkey experience, allowing participants to fully enjoy the wonders of the Comino Island’s underwater world.
Diving Requirements and Guidance
To partake in the dives, divers must hold an Advanced Open Water Diver (AOWD) certification or equivalent. This requirement ensures participants have the necessary skills and experience to navigate the challenging dive sites safely.
Plus, divers must dive with a partner throughout the excursion.
The dive trip offers the option of an instructor’s presence for an additional fee, provided advance notice is given. This allows for personalized guidance and support, especially for less experienced divers.
It’s important to follow all safety protocols and heed the instructions of the certified dive guide to make the most of this remarkable underwater adventure around Comino Island.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Type of Marine Life Can I Expect to See During the Dives?
Divers can expect to see a variety of colorful marine life, including vibrant fish, octopuses, and starfish, particularly at the Inner Lantern Point dive site known for its underwater tunnels and coral walls.
How Experienced Do I Need to Be for the Santa Maria Caves Dive?
The Santa Maria Caves dive is best suited for experienced divers, as it involves navigating through numerous caves and shelters. Divers need an Advanced Open Water Diver (AOWD) certification or equivalent to participate in this exploration-focused dive.
Are Underwater Photography and Videography Allowed During the Dives?
Underwater photography and videography are allowed during the dives. The dive operator encourages participants to capture their experiences and provides guidance on safely using cameras underwater.
Can I Request a Longer or Shorter Dive Duration at Each Site?
Participants can request longer or shorter dive durations at each site, subject to approval by the dive operator. However, the standard dive duration at each site is 45 minutes, which is included in the package.
Is There a Minimum Group Size Requirement for the Private Dive Option?
The private dive option does not have a minimum group size requirement. Participants can book the dive trip for as few as 2 people. The only requirement is that divers must have an Advanced Open Water Diver (AOWD) certificate or equivalent.
Recap
The Comino Island scuba diving trip offers a thrilling underwater adventure. With three captivating dive sites, experienced guides, and all necessary gear provided, divers can safely explore the vibrant marine life of the Mediterranean. The personalized boat journey and refreshment breaks enhance the overall experience, making this excursion a must-try for seasoned underwater enthusiasts.
You can check if your dates are available here: