The dive site on our doorstep: Hondoq Bay
Here at Blue Waters, we are blessed to have the beautiful Hondoq Bay just a stone’s throw from our front door. Hondoq Bay is a wonderful, sheltered little bay on Gozo's southeast coast. It is the perfect place to relax by the crystal-clear water in the summer sun, grab a bite at the seaside kiosk, or dive into the Mediterranean from the jetty.
The crystal clear water of Hondoq Bay
Not only does this hidden gem offer all of this, but it also provides us with a beautiful and versatile dive site right on our doorstep!
The dive itself has multiple entry and exit points. Those looking for a more relaxed entrance can stroll in from the beach, while others can practice their giant stride entry from the jetty.
Inside the sheltered bay, it is shallow, with depth slowly and smoothly increasing as you work your way out from the beach. There is still plenty to see here: a variety of smaller reef fish such as Salpa, Bream, Wrasse, and Damselfish, along with occasional sightings of smaller Octopuses and Moray Eels that call the rocky seabed home.
There is also a pipeline that extends towards Comino, making a great hiding place for crustaceans and species seeking more seclusion.
Divers can enjoy a mix of bottom topography, including rocky areas, sandy patches, and large stretches of healthy Posidonia seagrass to explore. Various small valleys with cracks and crevices provide perfect hiding places for a whole host of marine animals.
As you make your way to the maximum depth of around 12m, you can also spot large cart wheels, originally used to transport stone from the nearby former quarry to barges for transport to Malta and beyond—including for the construction of landmarks such as Liverpool Cathedral in the UK.
The neighbouring valley of Ta’ Bumberin is also stunning, with a gently sloping rocky reef surrounded by impressive walls.
The dive site's gradually sloping, shallow depth, easy entry, and generally protected, calm, clear waters make it an ideal location for those taking their first steps into the underwater world.
Divers participating in a Discover Scuba Diving experience or Open Water course will appreciate the forgiving conditions. The variety of marine life in this safe and comfortable environment ensures that first-time divers will enjoy their experience to the fullest!
It is also a great location for a check dive or any advanced skills training.
Having such a fantastic dive site so close means that those planning to dive for a few days or more can check their equipment, adjust weighting, and get comfortable before their deeper dives—all in a safe environment close to the shop, should they need anything.
More advanced skills training, such as navigation, rescue skills, or even professional training for the Divemaster course, can all be conducted here. The bay's protection makes it the ideal place to focus on perfecting dive and safety skills in a controlled setting while still enjoying the space and tranquility of the sea.
Plus, after the diving is done, there’s nothing better than unwinding at such a picturesque beach! If you stay with us at Blue Waters B&B, it’s very common for guests to head down to Hondoq for a relaxed evening by the water.
Get in touch now for details on our dive packages and courses—perhaps a dip in Hondoq Bay could be the perfect addition to your trip!
