Mgarr Ix-Xini

Mgarr ix-Xini is a scenic valley on the south coast of Gozo, with a sheltered inlet that suits every level from absolute beginner to experienced diver. The name means harbour of galleons, after the cliffs that reach into the open sea and gave ships shelter. It is a shore dive, and divers need to be certified to 12 m.

The entry is easy from the beach, with a short surface swim over very shallow water. Divers then descend onto a rocky area that slopes gently to about 5 m, where the bottom turns sandy, home to small critters and reef fish. Navigation is simple. Follow the left or right wall out, cross the valley and return along the other wall. The bottom slopes gradually to 13 or 14 m, and the maximum is a little over 16 m.

Along the reef there are two caverns, the second smaller than the first, with nudibranchs on the reef and a torch useful inside. The sandy bottom is active, with octopuses, flying gurnards and, with luck, seahorses. A number of rare fish not usually seen elsewhere live here. The sheltered position and shallow depth make it a good night dive.