Gozo’s Top Dive Sites: Mgarr ix-Xini
Gozo is blessed with a wealth of great dives. Mgarr ix-Xini, a scenic valley on the south coast of the island, is the perfect example of a location which can suit all levels, from absolute beginner to experienced diver.
Mgarr ix-Xini translates to "harbour of galleons" in English, named after the cliffs that extend into the open sea, creating this picturesque, protected inlet—a perfect place for ships to find shelter in days gone by.
View of the stunning Mgarr ix-Xini
The landscape above the surface alone is worth a visit, not to mention the famous restaurant that sits just a few metres from the water's edge. It’s a great example of the island's natural beauty, so anyone visiting the dive site should take their time, enjoy the views, take a swim, and savour some good food.
Divers benefit from an easy entrance from the beach. The water is very shallow initially, so a short surface swim is necessary. Once you reach a suitable depth, you can descend onto a rocky area that slopes gently down to about 5m, where the bottom becomes mostly sandy. This rocky area is home to many small critters and reef fish, making it perfect for easing into the dive while exploring in the clear, calm water.
Navigation here is extremely simple and stress-free. Divers can follow either the left or right wall outward, then cross the valley at the designated turn pressure, and return along the opposite wall. Generally, I follow the right wall out, turn at around 120 bar, then return along the other wall.
The descent is very gradual, sloping down to around 13–14m. If you swim close to the wall, there’s a rocky reef with plenty of hiding places for octopuses, cuttlefish, and moray eels. The middle of the valley features a sandy bottom, where you can often spot lizardfish, flying gurnard, stargazers, and starfish nestled in the sand.
After about 15 minutes, there is a small cave to explore. It’s spacious and relatively light, so even entry-level divers can enjoy the spectacular view from inside. The silhouette of the cave entrance, with beams of light bursting over the top of the arch, is stunning and will be appreciated by divers of all levels.
There is also a second cave after around 25–30 minutes of similar dimensions, should you have good air consumption and be up for a nice, long dive.
When turning and crossing the valley, it’s worth spending some time on the sandy bottom. It’s not uncommon, especially in the summer months, to find seahorses and small stingrays!
The return journey is equally beautiful, with plenty of opportunities for memorable marine life encounters during the gentle, slow ascent.
Due to the shallow depth, this site is wonderful for all levels. It can work for a DSD, an Open Water course, a check dive, or just a gentle and relaxed dive with plenty of opportunities to encounter a wide range of marine life.
It’s a great way to build confidence for divers early in their diving life, or for those looking to find a meditative state. Plus, due to the protection offered by the valley, it’s often a good place to dive, even when the weather is less favorable during the winter months.
To join us for some underwater exploration, get in touch!