You’re about to breathe underwater for the first time. This Malta try-scuba experience gives you hands-on coaching, all equipment included, and two guided water sessions in clear coastal water near Sliema. I was especially drawn to how instructors like Francesca are described as patient and calm.

I also like the small-group setup (max 4 people), because you get real attention while learning the basics. One possible drawback: it’s not a certification course, and it’s only for swimmers with the required medical and language checks, so it’s not the right fit for everyone.

Key highlights to know before you go

• Two guided water sessions in half a day: first training, then a shore session with a max depth of 5m.
• All scuba gear is included: you won’t be stuck renting the pieces you don’t yet understand.
• Max 4 people, lots of personal attention: calmer learning, more instructor time.
• Pre-learning is built in: online theory plus a short in-person safety and equipment briefing.
• English required: you’ll be able to understand the steps and safety rules clearly.

What a first try-scuba session in Malta is really like

Malta has a way of making first-timers feel like the sea is doing you a favor. You get that classic moment where you stop thinking and start listening to your breathing—slow, controlled, and weirdly relaxing once you settle.

The program is designed to move fast but not sloppy. You do the basics first (theory plus safety rules), then you practice underwater with an instructor right there with you, and you repeat the key skills again on the second water session.

The “value” idea here is simple: you’re not just watching from the sidelines. You’re learning by doing, with enough structure that you can build confidence by the end of the morning/afternoon.

From online eLearning to equipment fitting: setting yourself up for success

Before your appointment, you complete online theory materials in your language. After that, the team contacts you by WhatsApp (or SMS/email if WhatsApp isn’t available) with the learning link and your exact start time. This matters because the course depends on you showing up ready—both mentally and physically.

On the day, you’ll go through a safety briefing and equipment orientation before you ever go underwater. That includes how the scuba gear works and what to do if something feels off. The whole flow is meant to answer the questions that usually pop up when people see a regulator for the first time.

Bring two practical items and you’ll feel smoother immediately: a towel and a swimsuit (they’re not included). If you arrive not feeling confident, tell the instructor early. Several instructors are described as handling nervous first-timers with extra patience, and that extra calm usually makes the difference.

Two water sessions: practice skills, then explore near shore (max 5m)

Your first underwater session is all about skills. This is where you practice breathing underwater and get comfortable with the basics—things like equalizing, regulator use, and controlled movement. Instructors are described as staying close and not letting beginners wander off into panic mode.

Then you move to the second shore session, with a max depth of 5 meters. That shallow depth is intentional. It keeps the experience achievable while still letting you look around and see life near the surface.

And yes, the marine life can be a huge part of why people love this course. In past experiences, beginners have spotted fish close to the surface, and some have mentioned sea urchins and even a barracuda. Even if you don’t see a “big movie moment,” you’ll usually notice more sea life than you expected, because the whole plan stays beginner-friendly and close to the learning zone.

Meeting in Sliema and getting to the water: what the timing really means

You meet in the Sliema area at Ix-xatt Ta’ Qui Si Sana, near public transportation. The activity ends back at the same meeting point, so you’re not left figuring out how to get back on your own.

Transportation to and from the water site is included, but hotel pickup and drop-off is not. So you’ll want to plan a simple “meet me there” commute.

Duration is listed at about 2 hours 30 minutes, but expect the schedule to flex. Weather and sea conditions can change timing, as can traffic and parking—especially in June, July, and August. If you have a tight connection after this, I’d leave a buffer. This is a hands-on course, and being rushed at check-in is the fastest way to feel stressed.

Gear is included, but warmth is on you to manage

The good news: your complete diving kit is included. That’s everything you need for the experience, which saves you money and prevents the classic “I rented the wrong size” problem.

The other good news: you’re in wetsuit gear, and people have noted that it helps you stay warm even when it’s cooler out (one review specifically mentioned April and the wetsuits being a big help). Still, cold water can affect how quickly you relax, so think of warmth as part of the skill-building.

What you supply yourself: a swimsuit and a towel. That’s it. Simple packing here keeps the focus on learning, not shopping.

If you want to go a step further, the center offers upgrades. One common add-on mentioned is going down to see a ship, and people also suggest coordinating anything camera-related ahead of time.

Safety rules that actually matter (and who shouldn’t do this)

This is the part you should treat like real diving safety, not paperwork theater.

You need to meet the course requirements for swimming ability and you need English understanding. You also need a moderate level of physical fitness. If you have listed medical conditions—pregnancy is included in the restrictions—written medical approval is mandatory before you go underwater.

The details matter because the rules are strict:

• Heart/lungs/blood issues, eyes/ears/nasal problems, recent surgeries, and neurological conditions are listed.
• There are also restrictions around back problems, diabetes, stomach/intestinal issues, and certain prescription medications.
• Age 45+ with high cholesterol/blood pressure/smokers is called out in the requirements.

If you can’t provide written medical consent, you’re expected to join the snorkelling option instead. If you’re unsure, reach out early rather than showing up and hoping.

Finally, flying advice is included: for safety, wait at least 12 hours, and 24 hours is recommended before flying after the activity.

Instructors and small-group attention: why beginners often feel calm

This program lives or dies on instructor quality, and the feedback you get is strongly consistent: instructors are patient, communicative, and attentive.

People have praised instructors by name, including Holly, Francesca, Emma, Marcell, Alex, Julia, Davide, Georgia, and Yolanda. Others have mentioned instructors like Matteo handling a thorough safety briefing and taking time with anxious first-timers. Even when there are different instructor styles, the common thread is the same: you’re not left alone to figure it out.

The small group size (max 4) supports that. With fewer people, instructors can watch your body language, slow down when needed, and repeat directions in a way that actually sticks.

One balanced note: there are also complaints about the experience feeling rushed when check-in didn’t go smoothly and when a beginner couldn’t progress comfortably. If you’re someone who gets panicky fast, study the online materials and tell your instructor upfront. You’ll get the best outcome when you arrive ready to learn the sequence, not when you arrive hoping it magically becomes easy.

Price and value: what $96.55 buys you in Malta

At $96.55 per person, the price can feel like a steal or a fair deal, depending on what you expected to pay.

Here’s what you’re getting:

• Online theory material
• Safety briefing
• Complete diving kit
• 1 training water session
• 1 shore session with a max depth of 5m
• Transportation to and from the water site

What’s not included:

• Towel
• Swimsuit
• Hotel pickup/drop-off

The “value” logic is that you’re paying for a structured, supervised first attempt plus the gear. If you’ve ever done an activity where you spend half your time sorting equipment or waiting your turn, this setup is designed to reduce that.

One more important value point: this course does not provide an internationally recognized scuba certification. If your goal is a license, you’ll need scuba course options instead. But if your goal is to see Malta from underwater and leave with confidence that you can breathe underwater, this try experience is exactly that.

Should you book this Malta try-scuba experience?

I think you should book it if you:

• Want a true first-timer, hands-on experience in Malta
• Are comfortable as a swimmer and can follow English instructions
• Appreciate structured coaching and you like small groups
• Want the basics plus a shallow shore session up to 5m, without signing up for a certification track

I would skip it if:

• You’re dealing with any listed medical conditions and can’t get the required written approval
• You need an internationally recognized certification from this session
• You’re flying soon and don’t have the recommended time buffer

If you’re the right fit, this is one of those trips where you leave with a new skill and a memory you can’t get from land.

FAQ

FAQ

Do I get scuba certification with this try experience?

No. This program does not provide an internationally recognized scuba diving certification. If you want a license, you’ll need their scuba course options.

What’s included in the price?

The price includes online theory material, a safety briefing, complete scuba gear, 1 training water session, 1 shore session with a maximum depth of 5m, and transportation to and from the water site.

What should I bring?

Bring a towel and a swimsuit. Everything else needed for the scuba gear setup is included.

How deep do you go?

The shore session has a maximum depth of 5 meters.

What are the age requirements?

Minors must be at least 10 years old, and they need tutor/parental written consent to participate.

What medical conditions can prevent participation?

The experience lists restrictions such as pregnancy, heart/lungs/blood issues, eyes/ears/nasal problems, recent surgeries, neurological conditions, and several other health situations. If you have listed serious medical conditions, written approval is mandatory before diving.

Is hotel pickup included?

No. Transportation to and from the activity location is not included as hotel pickup/drop-off, but transport to and from the water site is included.

What happens if the weather is poor?

The experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.