Scuba-Diving Courses in Malta: Choosing a Licensed Centre

Malta has a large diving sector and year-round training options. The first verification is simple: use the Malta Tourism Authority’s current licensed-establishment register and match the operator name and location.

Then compare the actual course, instructor, group and conditions. A recognised agency logo does not by itself tell you the teaching quality or what the price includes.

Choose the correct first experience

A try dive introduces equipment and breathing under close supervision; an entry-level certification course adds theory, confined-water skills and open-water dives. Ask what certification is issued, prerequisites, minimum age, swimming assessment and the maximum depth for the programme.

Before comparing courses, open the Malta Tourism Authority (MTA) licensed-establishment register and match the centre’s current trading name and locality. A PADI or other training-agency logo is not a substitute for the operator’s Malta licence. If the advertised brand and licensed name differ, ask the centre to identify the matching register entry.

Complete medical screening honestly

Read the current medical questionnaire before paying. A “yes” answer may require medical clearance; it does not automatically mean you cannot dive. Tell the centre about medication, ear or sinus problems, respiratory or cardiac conditions and previous difficulty in water.

Ask who teaches and how large the group is

Request instructor-to-student ratio, language, training site, transport, confined-water arrangement and what happens if a student needs more time. Confirm emergency oxygen, first-aid arrangements and how sea conditions change the plan.

Get an all-in course price

Ask whether learning materials, certification fee, equipment, cylinders, transport, boat fees and extra training are included. Clarify cancellation for weather, illness and incomplete skills. Keep the operator licence reference and written booking terms with your course record.

Complete the medical screening before a non-refundable payment and ask whether a doctor’s clearance could be required. The written price should also explain weather cancellation, rescheduling and what happens if illness or an incomplete skill means extra pool or open-water training is needed.

Malta starting points to investigate

Starting point	Useful for	Verify directly
MTA licensed-establishment register	Mandatory operator verification	Exact trading name, locality and current licence
University of Malta Diving Resource Centre	Academic and public course pathway	Eligibility, dates and certification
A licensed Malta dive centre	Convenient Malta-based training	Group, language, site and all-in cost
A licensed Gozo dive centre	Gozo training and shore access	Transport, weather alternative and course sequence

Continue with the related guides

Use Family activities in Malta for the other side of this category. Browse all Activities & Leisure guides.

Last reviewed: 12 August 2026. Opening hours, programmes, prices, eligibility and booking rules can change; verify the linked source for the exact session before paying or travelling.