Malta has been named the Best Cave/Cavern/Grotto Diving Destination in the World by Scuba Diving Magazine, the official publication of the PADI Diving Club in the United States and one of the most influential voices in the global diving community.
The accolade forms part of the magazine’s 2026 Readers’ Choice Awards, which rank destinations based on feedback from experienced divers worldwide.
Caves, wrecks and more…
In addition to taking the top spot in the cave and cavern category, Malta secured second place for both Wreck Diving and Shore Diving, and was recognised as “One of the Best” in five further categories: Best Value, Best Overall, Best Beginner Diving, Best Advanced Diving, and Best Wall Diving. The strong performance reinforces Malta and Gozo’s long-standing reputation as leading international diving destinations.
Maltese Tourism Authority Chairman Dr Charles Mangion said the results highlight the nation’s continued work to enhance both the quality and sustainability of its diving sector.
“This award continues to showcase Malta’s commitment to quality and sustainability in our diving sector,” Dr Mangion said. “It recognises the expertise of our dive operators, the richness of our underwater environment and the investments being made to protect it. Achievements like this strengthen Malta’s reputation among high-value travellers whilst creating lasting benefits for our local communities and economy.”
The Scuba Diving Readers’ Choice Awards are based on verified input from divers across the globe, reflecting real-world experiences and community sentiment. The 2026 results will be promoted throughout the coming year across the magazine’s print editions, website, newsletters and social media channels, reaching millions of certified divers and underwater enthusiasts. Tourism officials say the recognition provides Malta with valuable visibility within one of the world’s most influential audiences for dive travel.
Malta’s Top Five Dive Sites
Widely regarded as one of Europe’s premier underwater playgrounds, Malta and Gozo offer a variety of world-class dive sites. Five of the most celebrated include:
1. The Blue Hole, Gozo. A natural limestone formation leading to dramatic drop-offs, arches and crystal-clear visibility. Popular with both recreational and technical divers, it offers an iconic descent into open blue water.
2. Ċirkewwa, Malta. One of Malta’s most versatile shore-diving areas, home to the Madonna Statue, dramatic reef walls and two wrecks — the P29 patrol boat and the Rozi tugboat.
3. MV Karwela, Gozo. A purpose-sunk passenger ferry resting at around 40 metres. Famous for its striking staircases and wide-open swim-throughs, it’s considered one of the Mediterranean’s most photogenic wrecks.
4. Inland Sea & Tunnel, Gozo. A sheltered lagoon connected to the open sea by a 70-metre tunnel that opens onto dramatic underwater cliffs. The play of light inside the tunnel makes it a favourite for photographers.
5. HMS Maori, Valletta. A historic WWII destroyer lying in shallow waters in St Elmo Bay. Its accessibility and abundant marine life make it ideal for beginners, underwater archaeologists and history-minded divers.
