Malta: PADI Advanced Open Water Diver Course

Malta: PADI Advanced Open Water Diver Course Review

Thinking about taking your scuba skills to the next level? This PADI Advanced Open Water Diver Course in Malta offers a fantastic mix of deep-sea exploration, navigation skills, and exciting adventure options—all in one compact, well-organized package. While it’s designed for divers with some experience looking to push further, it’s accessible and rewarding for anyone eager to expand their underwater horizons.

What we love about this experience? First, the opportunity to dive down to 30 meters—a depth that reveals a whole new layer of marine life. Second, the chance to choose three adventure dives tailored to your interests, whether wrecks, buoyancy skills, or even underwater scooters. Third, the small group size (limited to six participants) ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

A potential consideration? The program requires you to complete some theory online beforehand, which might feel like a hassle if you prefer in-person learning. Plus, the two-day schedule demands a bit of tight planning, but it’s a fair trade for earning your certification so quickly.

This course suits divers who want to build confidence, learn specialized skills, and explore Malta’s vibrant underwater scenery in a safe, structured way. It’s ideal for those who enjoy guided instruction with a personal touch and are ready for a bit of adventure.

Good To Know

• Two-day certification: Fast-track your advanced skills in a weekend.
• Includes all gear and tanks: No hidden costs for equipment.
• Choose your adventure: Customizable dives based on weather and interest.
• Small group size: More personalized attention and safety.
• Online theory options: Flexibility for your schedule.
• Expert instruction: Certified PADI instructor speaks multiple languages.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Malta PADI Advanced Open Water Course

Location and Setting

Malta’s crystal clear waters are a magnet for divers, combining calm visibility, warm temperatures, and a variety of marine life. The Orangeshark Diving Centre, based in Mellieha, is well-reputed for its friendly, professional team. They operate from a convenient spot with easy access to multiple dive sites, making logistics smooth and hassle-free.

The setting is perfect for those who want to maximize their underwater time without long boat rides or complicated transfers. The proximity to popular diving spots means you’ll spend less time in transit and more time exploring.

Itinerary and Structure

This two-day course is thoughtfully designed to balance theory, practical skills, and fun. It begins with a meet-and-greet at the dive center about 30 minutes before the scheduled start. If you’ve completed the e-learning modules beforehand, you can jump straight into the practical dives, making the most of your limited time.

The first day typically involves three dives: a navigation dive to hone your underwater compass skills, and a deep dive down to 30 meters to get comfortable with the pressure and environment at greater depths. These two are mandatory and form the core of the certification.

The third dive of the day is flexible—offering choices like wreck exploration, buoyancy mastery, or even a dive with underwater scooters. The instructor will recommend what’s best based on the weather, your skill level, and your interests. Reviewers mention how helpful it is to have tailored advice, especially if you want to focus on specific skills or experiences.

The second day completes the remaining dives, often involving the other adventure options, depending on prior choices. After completing all five dives and the five knowledge development sessions, you’ll receive your certification, allowing you to dive up to 30 meters confidently.

Instructors and Group Dynamics

The course is led by experienced, multilingual instructors who are praised for their professionalism, patience, and clarity. With a maximum of six participants, the small group setting fosters a relaxed atmosphere, allowing plenty of individual feedback and assistance if needed.

Reviewers note that the instructors are approachable and genuinely passionate about diving, which helps new divers feel more at ease in unfamiliar surroundings. This personalized approach makes a tangible difference, especially when trying new skills at deeper depths.

Equipment and Gear

All high-quality gear is included, which is a major plus. You’ll get your own scuba tank, dive computer, and full gear setup—no need to worry about packing or renting equipment locally. The gear is modern and well-maintained, ensuring safety and comfort during each dive.

Learning Materials and Flexibility

The e-learning option allows you to complete some of the theory modules online before arriving, saving time and enabling you to start practical sessions immediately. For those who prefer in-person learning, the center offers comprehensive knowledge development sessions.

This flexibility is a real advantage for travelers with tight schedules or those who want to minimize classroom time in favor of more diving.

Cost and Value

At $590 per person, the price covers all five adventure dives, theory lessons, equipment, tanks, and certification fees, making it a solid value. When you consider that it includes personalized instruction, quality gear, and a quick pathway to advanced certification, the cost appears justified, especially given Malta’s stunning underwater scenery.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included are five adventure dives, five knowledge development sessions, high-quality gear, scuba tanks, dive computer, transfers, e-learning, and the PADI registration fee and certification. You’ll want to bring essentials like swimwear, sunscreen, water, snacks, and a waterproof camera to capture the underwater sights.

Accessibility and Practical Considerations

The course is suitable for non-swimmers and those with respiratory issues, provided they can meet certain health criteria (not suitable for people with heart problems). Participants must have an existing diving certification—this isn’t for complete beginners.

The small group size ensures safety and personalized attention, but it also means spots can fill quickly, so booking in advance is advised. Cancellation policy is flexible, allowing full refunds if canceled 24 hours beforehand.

What to Expect During Your Dives

Navigation Dive: Expect to learn and practice underwater navigation skills, such as using a compass and natural landmarks. Many reviewers appreciated that the instructor took time to explain techniques clearly, making them feel more confident underwater.

Deep Dive: The highlight for many is the 30-meter depth, where marine life and underwater formations become more prominent. Some reviewers shared that they saw schools of fish and interesting rock formations not accessible at shallower levels.

Adventure Dives: Depending on your preference, you might explore wrecks, practice buoyancy, or zoom around with underwater scooters. These dives are tailored to your interests and the weather, adding a fun, personalized touch.

Post-Dive Experience: After each session, there’s often time to relax, share experiences, and ask questions. Many recommend bringing a waterproof camera to capture the marine scenery, as the visibility in Malta’s waters is generally excellent.

Why This Course is Worth It

The two-day format makes this course a convenient and efficient way to upgrade your diving skills without a lengthy commitment. The inclusions of gear, small groups, and expert instructors all add to the overall value. Plus, Malta’s underwater environment—teeming with marine life, wrecks, and colorful formations—is an ideal backdrop for learning and adventure.

This experience suits travelers who want a mix of instruction, adventure, and the chance to meet like-minded divers. It’s especially perfect for those who have some diving experience but wish to expand their skills and confidence in a safe, well-organized setting.

Final Thoughts

The Malta PADI Advanced Open Water Diver Course from Orangeshark Diving Centre offers a practical, rewarding way to deepen your diving experience. You’ll leave with a new set of skills, a certification, and unforgettable memories of Malta’s underwater beauty. The small group size and personalized instruction make it stand out, ensuring you get the attention you deserve.

If you’re looking for a quick but comprehensive way to advance your diving, enjoy Malta’s warm, welcoming waters, and learn from friendly, knowledgeable guides, this course is well worth considering. It strikes a good balance between instruction, adventure, and value, making it suitable for most intermediate divers eager to grow their underwater repertoire.

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FAQs

Is this course suitable for beginners?
No, this course is for certified divers looking to advance their skills. Beginners should consider a basic open water course first.

Can I complete the theory online?
Yes, the e-learning material can be done beforehand, allowing you to focus on practical dives during the two days.

What safety measures are in place?
Certified instructors lead all dives, gear is high quality, and small groups ensure personalized guidance and safety.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, swimwear, towel, snacks, sunscreen, water, waterproof camera, comfortable clothes, and your diving certification.

Are the dives customizable?
Yes, after the mandatory navigation and deep dives, you can choose from options like wreck or scooter dives based on weather and your interests.

Is transportation included?
Yes, transfers to and from the dive spots are included in the package.

How flexible is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering peace of mind if your plans change.

To sum it up, the Malta PADI Advanced Open Water Diver Course provides an excellent blend of training, adventure, and convenience. Whether you’re seeking to explore Malta’s underwater wrecks or simply want to challenge yourself with deeper dives, this program offers genuine value and expert guidance. It’s perfect for divers ready to build confidence and expand their horizons in one of the Mediterranean’s most inviting waters.

You can check if your dates are available here: