In the second part of his family snorkelling trip, Andy Torbet looks at must-visit locations above and below the water.
Snorkelling, unlike continually submerged forms of diving, allows us to appreciate the terrestrial landscape as much as the underwater one. It’s why I’ve snorkelled in water of very limited visibility but still thoroughly enjoyed the experience as I swam past towering sea-cliffs crowded with bombing gannets; or quietly drifted down rivers, passing wildlife and history.
But what I hadn’t really considered until a recent trip to Malta is that the simplified logistics of snorkelling allows you more free time. And I used this free time to do something I have, somewhat embarrassingly, failed to do over the decades of diving in Malta – visit some of the non-diving attractions.
The three cities
However, staying on brand for this column, let’s look at the snorkel sites. My wife and two sons had joined me, so the examples below are shallow and suited to beginners, with short walks and easy entry/egress. But there is a plethora of great snorkelling sites around Malta to suit all interests, right up to the very experienced.
Snorkel sites
Anchor Bay: Let’s start with our favourite. Also known as Popeye’s Village due to the proximity of the 1980 film set, now a tourist attraction. However, the real draw is below the surface. A concrete jetty creates very sheltered water, easy access and plenty of life amid the man-made and natural rock formations, overhangs and gullies. This is our top spot for families.
[L] The Torbet boys prepare to enter the water; [R] Family duck dive
Ghar Lapsi: A completely sheltered pool in all conditions, with a small exit into the open sea leading to reefs and walls in both direction. There is also a short, multi-exited cavern system to explore for the experienced diver, or very experienced snorkeller.
Mellieha Bay: A safe haven in most wind directions and often with incredible visibility, this sandy bay makes for easy snorkelling. Although it may not offer as much topographical interest as rockier locales, chances are you’ll see thornback rays and blue crabs aplenty.
Snorkelling provided access to cave-pool rock hideaways
Blue Hole: Arguably the most famous dive in Malta, although it’s actually on the island of Gozo. It may seem a restrictively small pool for surface-dwelling snorkellers but the 360 degree walls offer plenty of wildlife and you can peer down the shaft to the archway at 6m even if a duck dive there is a bit too much.
Malta’s heritage
Mdina, the ancient capital of Malta
On our land-based excursions we restricted ourselves to the main island (the country of Malta is made of up the islands of Malta, Gozo and Comino) but we were fortunate to be hosted by an official guide, who had to undertake three years of study to attain a Guide Licence. Malta, boasting three World UNESCO Heritage sites is a phenomenal country for lovers of the past. Here’s a sample of what we packed in.
Valetta: This UNESCO-listed medieval stronghold is the capital of Malta. Built by The Knights of St John, its original streets and architecture transport you back through Centuries. Within the walls are the Upper Barrakka Gardens, with their midday cannon firing. Also worth a visit is is the Church of St John, housing two beautiful Caravagios, The Grandmaster Palace and more.
The Three Cities: Three fingers of land jut out into the heavily fortified harbour. Each developed into distinct cities hundreds of years ago, retaining their individual heritage and character.
[L] Brilliant guide Stanley walking the boys through Fort Elmo; [R] Gazing out over the three cities
Mdina – The Silent City: High-walled and built to repel invaders, the ancient capital of Malta was never developed beyond its medieval walls. It seems like one, large, open-air museum where the exhibit is the narrow streets, intriguing buildings and architectural details that tell the stories across centuries. It also has the distinction of housing perhaps the greatest café in the world – Fontenella, with views across the whole of Malta and a long and impressive list of magnificent cakes. An opportunity to refuel for the next dive!
Go snorkelling!
Learn more on snorkelling with BSAC. Looking to introduce snorkelling into your club? Find out more at bsac.com/snorkellinginstructor
Article 'Malta: Room to breathe' by Any Torbet first published in SCUBA magazine, Issue 163 March 2026.
