Clear
Water Around Malta
The possibility of diving all
the year round with everything geared to the needs
of the sports diver and the benevolent attitude
of the officials may in themselves still be not
enough to make the Maltese islands an ideal place
for diving.
It is the excellent underwater
visibility, the unique topographic structure of
its underwater landscape and the healthy flora
and fauna which qualify the islands as the ideal
place for this wonderful sport.
The clarity of the sea around
the islands is to be found in very few other places.
The waters are still extremely clear and clean
and for that reason certain rare species of fish
can be found - even the Anthers - which unfortunately
have vanished from other parts of the Mediterranean.
The visibility under water in Malta is influenced
by the individual diving site, the weather and
the sea situation. But thanks to the overwhelmingly
rocky coasts and the unpolluted water the visibility
on average is 30 meters/90 feet.
The Government Protection
of the Sea and Divers
The Maltese islands are a renowned
destination for activity holidays. Sensible and
responsible people intend to keep them this way.
Diving has a prominent position in this concept
and that is the reason why diving finds the special
attention and promotional assistance of the Maltese
Government in this connection three aims are being
followed:
Safety Standards for Diving
Protection of the sea, its flora
and fauna. Protection of finds of cultural value.
These targets are in the diver's sole interest
and agree with the regulations of practically
all international diving clubs and schools all
of which are pledged to maintain the fascination,
freedom and safety of this wonderful sport for
future generations. Anyone who wants to dive within
the territory of the Maltese islands needs a diving
permit, the C-card. It is issued by the Department
of Health and costs 1 Maltese Lira. A medical
certificate, 2 photographs and the logbook of
the applicant must be presented. Minimun age for
divers in Malta is 14 years of age and those under
18 years require a written approval of a parent
ot legal guardian.
The diver who wishes to dive independently
of a diving school has to present a certificate
to the authorities equivalent to at least the
CMAS/2-star certificate.
All diving schools will ensure
that administrative procedures are complied with
without problems, and even the "professional"
would be well advised to apply through diving
schools rather than on his own. Participants in
diving courses under the control of an authorised
diving instructor do not need any official permission
except for a medical certificate. Spear fishing
without a license is absolutely forbidden. There
is a heavy fine - possible expulsion and/or confiscation
of equipment according to the severity of the
case. In some areas of the island, which will
be made known to the diver when receiving his
diving permit, diving is strictly prohibited for
reasons of environmental and archaeological protection.
Archaeological Findings
Must Be Reported
Removal and non-reporting of cultural
finds is unlawful. It is a criminal act which
will be prosecuted. Do not let temptation spoil
your vacation. Report any such discoveries to
the officials directly or to your school.
These guidelines are practically
self-evident to any serious sports diver, since
they are a contribution to the protection of the
sea, its fauna and flora. |
