Malta: PADI Advanced Open Water Diver Course

Malta: PADI Advanced Open Water Diver Course

If you’re looking to expand your underwater skills while soaking in the beauty of Malta’s clear waters, the PADI Advanced Open Water Diver course offered by Orangeshark Diving Centre might be just the ticket. This two-day program promises not only to boost your confidence beneath the waves but also to introduce you to some of Malta’s most intriguing dive sites, from wrecks to scenic underwater navigation. The price is around $590 per person, which, considering all the equipment, instruction, and certification included, is quite reasonable for those serious about their diving journey.

What I find especially appealing is how flexible and personalized the experience can be. You get to select three adventure dives tailored to your interests—be it wreck exploration, buoyancy mastery, or even an underwater scooter ride. Plus, the small group size—limited to just six participants—means you’ll get plenty of individual attention from your instructor, making learning both effective and enjoyable.

On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind is that this course requires some preparation. If you want to hit the water on Day One, the theory component should ideally be completed beforehand via online e-learning. It’s a smart way to maximize your practical time, but it does add a layer of planning. Also, the course is not suitable for those with heart problems, respiratory issues, or non-swimmers, so a little self-assessment before booking is wise.

Key points / Takeaways

• Small Group Sizes: Limited to six participants, allowing for personalized guidance and a more relaxed learning environment.
• Flexible Adventure Choices: Pick from wrecks, buoyancy, scooters, or other experiences to tailor your dive profile.
• Comprehensive Equipment: High-quality gear, including a dive computer and scuba tank, is included, so you don’t need to bring much besides your enthusiasm.
• Clear Certification Path: Complete five dives over two days, including the mandatory deep and navigation dives, to earn your certification.
• All-Inclusive Price: The fee covers training, gear, transfers, and the PADI registration fee and certificate, making it good value for serious divers.
• Multilingual Instructors: Guides speak Italian, English, French, and Spanish, ensuring clear communication and comfort.

Discovering Malta’s Underwater World: What the Experience Looks Like

When I imagine myself taking this course, I see a well-organized setup at the Orangeshark Diving Centre in Mellieha, a popular hub for divers. You’ll arrive about 30 minutes before your first session—important if you’re doing the theory in person. But if you’ve completed the e-learning modules in advance, you’ll be ready to jump into the water immediately, which means more time exploring Malta’s underwater treasures.

The equipment provided is of high quality—think reliable dive computers, tanks filled to 200 bars, and comfortable gear for all shapes and sizes. This attention to detail ensures you’re safe and comfortable, allowing you to focus on your new skills. The instructor, often fluent in multiple languages, emphasizes safety and techniques, helping even nervous swimmers gain confidence.

The curriculum includes five dives: two compulsory ones and three others, which you can choose based on local conditions and your interests. The core dives are the deep dive to 30 meters and the navigation dive, both of which are practical skills that you’ll use on every further dive. Many students find the navigation drill particularly useful, as it sets a solid foundation for exploring unfamiliar sites confidently.

Beyond the essential training, the optional adventure dives are what make this course stand out. You might opt for a wreck dive—Malta has some interesting wrecks, including the WWII wrecks near Comino—or try a buoyancy-focused dive to perfect your control underwater. Some reviews mention the underwater scooter ride, which adds an element of fun and a different perspective. Based on comments, guides like Mark and Luca are praised for their friendly, professional approach, making even complex skills feel manageable.

Over the two days, you’ll be in the water three times on one day and twice on the next, with plenty of breaks and opportunities for questions. The timing is flexible, but the core aim is a steady, enjoyable learning experience that leaves you feeling competent.

Why This Course Is a Great Fit for Certain Travelers

This program is perfect for divers who already have basic certification and want to push their limits safely. If you’ve completed your Open Water Diver course and are eager to explore deeper waters and wrecks around Malta, this is a practical next step. It’s also ideal if you enjoy small-group settings, personalized instruction, and a variety of dive options.

Travelers who value well-organized, all-inclusive packages will appreciate the comprehensive fee structure that covers gear, training, and certification. And if you’re eager to explore Malta’s underwater scenery—whether it’s wrecks, caves, or vibrant marine life—this course will give you the skills and confidence to do so independently. For those with a love of adventure and a desire for professional guidance, it offers strong value.

However, this experience might not be suitable if you’re not comfortable in the water or have health concerns like respiratory or heart issues. Also, if you prefer solo adventures or more extensive certifications, you might find this course is just the beginning of your underwater journey.

Entering the Underwater World of Malta: What You Can Expect

Malta’s waters are renowned for their clarity, warmth, and fascinating wrecks, and these elements will be the backdrop of your advanced course. The dives are conducted at carefully selected sites, often near Mellieha or Comino, which are known for their calm conditions and vibrant marine life. Expect to see a variety of fish, corals, and perhaps even some wrecks that are teeming with history and marine ecosystems.

The deep dive, reaching 30 meters, is an exhilarating experience, giving you a new perspective on yourself and the underwater environment. It’s a chance to practice controlling your buoyancy and managing your air consumption at depth—skills you’ll carry forward into all your future dives. The navigation dive is equally practical, involving using a compass and natural landmarks to find your way—a skill that’s surprisingly fun to master.

The optional dives are where your interests can shine through. A wreck dive might reveal a sunken vessel with abundant marine life, while a buoyancy session could help you perfect your control, making your overall diving more comfortable and sustainable. Some reviews mention the “peak performance buoyancy” as a favorite, because it’s a skill that improves your overall experience underwater.

The instruction is thorough but relaxed, with guides like Luca and Marco often praised for their patience and clarity. They’ll help you troubleshoot any issues and answer questions, ensuring you’re comfortable at every stage. After completing the five dives, you’ll leave with new skills and the confidence to explore Malta’s waters independently—a true reward for your efforts.

The Practicalities: Logistics, Price, and Value

The cost of $590 may seem steep at first glance, but when you break down what’s included—the five dives, all gear, transfers, certification, and theory training—it’s quite competitive compared to standalone dive trips or courses elsewhere. Plus, the convenience of a small-group, all-inclusive package means fewer surprises and more focus on your learning experience.

The two-day format is efficient. You’ll start with the theory (preferably completed online beforehand) and then spend the bulk of your time in the water. The flexible start times allow you to fit the course into your Malta itinerary without hassle.

The group size, capped at six, is a real advantage. It means your instructor can tailor the experience to your pace, and you won’t feel lost in a crowd. This personal touch often translates into better learning outcomes and a more enjoyable adventure.

Transfers between the dive center and sites are included, simplifying logistics. This is especially valuable in Malta, where some of the best dive spots can be spread out and difficult to reach without a guide.

In terms of suitability, I’d say this course fits best for travelers who already love the water and want to enhance their skills in a safe, friendly environment. It’s a good fit for individuals, couples, or small groups who appreciate a professional but relaxed setting.

Final Thoughts: Is This the Right Experience for You?

If you’re at a point where you’ve completed an Open Water certification and want to explore more challenging or varied underwater environments, this course offers a very practical next step. The small group setting, personalized choices, and expert guidance make it an appealing option for those who want to maximize their Malta diving experience without the complexity of a multi-week course.

The all-inclusive fee covers everything you need, and the trained guides seem committed to making the learning fun and safe. You will leave with new skills, deeper confidence, and a certificate that opens doors to dive up to 30 meters on your own.

For travelers eager to discover Malta’s diverse underwater scenery—be it wrecks, scenic reefs, or caves—this course provides the foundation and confidence to do so independently. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy structured learning with a personal touch, who appreciate good value, and who want to turn Malta’s famous waters into their next underwater playground.

To sum it up, this experience balances adventure with education, making it a worthwhile investment for passionate divers looking to elevate their skills while enjoying Malta’s underwater beauty.

FAQ

How long does the course take?
It spans two days, with one day dedicated to three dives and the second day completing the remaining two.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers five adventure dives, five knowledge sessions (theory), high-quality gear, tanks, a dive computer, transfers, e-learning materials, registration, and certification.

Is it suitable for non-swimmers?
No, this course isn’t suitable for non-swimmers or those with respiratory issues, but if you’re comfortable in the water, you’ll be fine.

Do I need to prepare before arriving?
If you plan to dive immediately, completing the online e-learning modules beforehand is recommended.

What diving sites are used?
Sites are chosen based on weather and availability but generally include scenic and wreck sites around Malta, such as near Mellieha or Comino.

Can I pick my adventure dives?
Yes, you can choose among options like wrecks, buoyancy, or scooters, with guidance from your instructor on what’s best suited for conditions and your interests.

Are transfers included?
Yes, transfers to and from the dive sites are included in the package.