Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124

Discover Malta’s underwater world with a safe, beginner-friendly SSI Try Scuba experience at the Octopus Garden Diving Center for $56.

The SSI Try Scuba Diving in the sea offered by Octopus Garden Diving Center Malta provides a captivating introduction to diving, perfect for those without prior experience. For $56 per person, this 1.5 to 2-hour activity takes place directly at the house reef behind the Gillieru Harbour Hotel in St. Paul’s Bay. With small groups limited to 4 participants and high-quality diving equipment, this tour emphasizes safety and personal attention.
This experience is designed for beginners who want to try diving in Malta, one of Europe’s top diving destinations. It requires no prior diving license or skills, making it accessible to anyone who can swim and is healthy. The tour runs Monday to Friday at 3 p.m., providing a flexible window for visitors eager to explore Malta’s underwater scenery without long commitments.
While no hotel transfers are included, the clear location at the diving center simplifies logistics. The activity also emphasizes safety, with German-speaking instructors guiding guests through a thorough briefing and underwater exploration at a maximum depth of 5 meters.
You can check availability for your dates here:
Planning more time in St Paul S Bay? We've covered other experiences worth considering.

The tour starts at the Octopus Garden Dive Center, which is situated behind the Gilleru Harbour Hotel in St. Paul’s Bay. This central location makes it straightforward to find and access, with the entire activity taking place at the dive center’s house reef. Guests are expected to arrive ready with swimwear and prepared to participate in the briefing and water session.
Since transfers are not included, visitors should plan to arrive independently. The dive center offers a timely, well-organized activity that fits smoothly into a Malta itinerary. The meeting and end point are the same, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

The SSI Try Scuba Diving offers a comprehensive briefing led by a certified SSI dive professional. This session covers safe diving practices and familiarizes participants with the tested diving gear. The full equipment set includes everything needed for the 30-minute dive—mask, fins, wetsuit, regulator, and more.
The activity overall lasts about 1.5 to 2 hours, balancing preparation, briefing, and the actual underwater time. This structured approach ensures guest safety and confidence, especially for first-timers diving in Malta’s clear waters.

The activity takes place at the house reef, a familiar local site that offers a calm environment for beginners. Maximum depth is 5 meters, allowing participants to enjoy the underwater scenery without concern. The reef environment provides opportunities to see marine life and explore Malta’s underwater landscapes with experienced guidance.
Because the activity is limited to a half-hour water dive, guests can comfortably experience the underwater world without feeling overwhelmed. The small group sizes ensure plenty of space for each diver to enjoy the surroundings and receive personal tips from the instructors.
More Great Tours Nearby
The diving instructors are fluent in German and English, offering clear instructions and reassurance throughout the experience. With over 30 years of experience, the guides are well-versed in ensuring safety, organization, and enjoyment.
Guests appreciate how the professional guides explain the equipment and safety protocols, making the experience accessible even for complete novices. For children aged 10 and above, specially trained instructors are available, although children under 10 cannot participate.
Participants need to be fit, healthy, and able to swim safely. The activity is not suitable for pregnant women, people with back problems, mobility impairments, claustrophobia, or non-swimmers. Those with epilepsy, a cold, high blood pressure, recent surgeries, or other medical conditions should consult a doctor before booking.
Diving activities are not allowed within 24 hours of flying, so planning accordingly is recommended. Guests should also bring swimwear and avoid cameras, alcohol, drugs, littering, or touching marine life during the dive.

The tour offers free cancellation if canceled up to 24 hours in advance, allowing for flexible planning. Visitors can reserve now and pay later, which adds convenience to travel arrangements. Since the activity is valid for one day, checking availability and starting times is essential.

This tour is part of a wider selection of Malta diving experiences, including scuba with instructor, discovery dives, and advanced courses. The small group size and beginner-friendly approach distinguish it from more intensive programs. It offers a great entry point for those considering further diving adventures in Malta.

The SSI Try Scuba Diving in Malta at the Octopus Garden Diving Center provides a trustworthy, well-organized experience for beginners. Priced at $56, it offers personalized guidance with small groups and high-quality equipment. The experience at the house reef makes it simple and convenient to enjoy Malta’s underwater environment.
While no diving license is needed, participants should meet health and swimming requirements. The German and English-speaking instructors ensure clarity and safety, making this a reliable choice for first-time divers. Visitors looking for a safe, short introduction to Malta’s underwater beauty will find this tour a worthwhile option.
Is prior diving experience required?
No, this activity does not require a license or previous experience. It is designed for complete beginners.
What is included in the price?
The price of $56 includes theory briefing, full diving equipment, and 30 minutes of water time under supervision.
Where does the tour take place?
The tour takes place at the house reef of the Octopus Garden Dive Center, located behind the Gillieru Harbour Hotel in St. Paul’s Bay.
Can children participate?
Children aged 10 and above can participate, provided they are fit and able to swim. Children under 10 cannot join.
What should I bring?
Participants should bring swimwear and are advised not to bring cameras or touch marine life during the dive.
Is transportation included?
No, transfers are not included. Guests need to arrive independently at the dive center.
Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. You can also reserve now and pay later.
What languages are available?
Guides speak German and English, ensuring clear communication during the briefing and dive.
How physically demanding is the activity?
Participants need to be fit and able to swim safely. The maximum depth is 5 meters, suitable for most healthy individuals.
Is the tour suitable for pregnant women or those with health issues?
No, pregnant women and individuals with serious health problems are advised not to participate.