MaltaMedia.com

The Maltese Islands have been voted the premier dive destination in Europe and third best globally by ‘Diver’ magazine in their annual ‘Diver Awards’. The award, which is voted for by the magazine’s readers, confirms the Maltese Islands as one of the most sought-after global destinations for diving and is the first time such an award has been given to a Mediterranean country. Malta joins a prestigious list of well-established dive destinations around the world to receive the prize including Egypt and the Maldives.

The Maltese Islands have been creating a name for themselves in the international diving scene in recent years – and with good reason. Malta has diving to suit all levels and interests and boasts some of the very best conditions anywhere in the world. The sea temperature is warm year-round and visibility is consistently excellent – it is not uncommon to be diving in crystal clear waters with up to 30 metres visibility.

There are plenty of shallow reef dive sites for beginners and some new artificial ones in deeper water that teem with tropical fish and colourful flora. There are also an abundance of wreck dives dotted around the islands’ shores for more experienced or adventurous divers. This, coupled with very high standards in service and safety, give Malta a truly competitive edge.

The success of diving on the Maltese Islands is no real mystery. In addition to the superb conditions underwater, the laidback charm and relaxed nature of the Islands and its people ensure a diving holiday to Malta is a truly unforgettable experience.

Alex Incorvaja, Malta Tourism Authority UK Director, said that ‘We’re delighted to pick up this award as we have worked very hard to promote Malta as the world-class diving destination that we know it is. This really is great news for the diving industry in Malta and I’m pleased that the discerning readers of ‘Diver’ magazine have recognised what we have to offer to diving enthusiasts in the UK and around the world’.

The Malta Tourism Authority picked up the award at a ceremony held on Friday 27 March 2009 at the Novotel London Excel. The award ceremony, hosted by ‘Diver’ magazine, was attended by over 100 key industry figures.