A shore dive and snorkel site off Zonqor Point where the tugboats Tug 10 and St Michael lie as shallow wrecks, with shallow reefs on both sides of the peninsula.
Zonqor Point is a headland on the south-east coast of Malta, about 1 km north-east of the centre of Marsaskala, and it is a popular shore dive and snorkel site. Two tugboats, known as Tug 10 and St Michael, lie as shallow wrecks off the point, and there are shallow reefs on both sides of the peninsula. Because the wrecks are in modest depth, the site works for both scuba divers and confident snorkellers, and it is often used for training dives and check-out dives. Marine life on the wrecks and reef includes wrasse, bream, damselfish, small groupers and octopus, and the tugs give novices a first look at wreck diving without the depth or complexity of larger wrecks elsewhere in Malta.
Access is from the shore near Triq Ghar ix-Xama, where divers enter over rock and shallow ledges and swim out to the wreck positions. The main prerequisite is a certification such as Open Water for scuba, or a reasonable level of swimming fitness for snorkelling. Snorkellers need a mask, fins and snorkel, and many also wear a wetsuit or shortie in spring and autumn. Divers need full kit, a delayed surface marker buoy and, ideally, a torch. Equipment can be rented from dive centres in Marsaskala and nearby towns. Age limits follow the agency standard, and children snorkelling should be supervised closely because of the rocky entry and water movement near the point.
Safety briefings are normally given by dive centres, or agreed between buddies for independent dives. The briefing covers the entry and exit points, the compass heading to the wrecks, the maximum depth, boat traffic and weather. Emergency help in Malta is available by calling 112. The best season runs from April to November, when sea temperatures and visibility are most favourable. Because Zonqor Point is exposed, east and south-east winds can create surge and poor visibility, and the site is best avoided in rough conditions. Summer weekends bring more swimmers and boats, so early starts are advised. Visitors should wear reef-safe sun protection and water shoes for the rocky entry.
| Difficulty | moderate |
|---|---|
| Season | April to November |
| Address | Triq Ghar ix-Xama, Zonqor Point, Marsaskala MSK, Malta |
Activity facts
- Where
- Marsaskala (Zonqor Point)
Equipment
Mask, fins and snorkel; certified-diver kit for the wrecks; DSMB
Location
Triq Ghar ix-Xama, Zonqor Point, Marsaskala MSK, Malta
35.8677, 14.5732 View on map
Highlights
- Two shallow tugboat wrecks, Tug 10 and St Michael, off Zonqor Point
- Shore access for both scuba divers and snorkellers
- Shallow reefs on both sides of the peninsula
- Close to Marsaskala, with dive centres nearby for hire
Tips for visiting
- Wear water shoes; the entry is over rock and shallow ledges
- Check the wind first; east and south-east conditions cause surge here
- Snorkellers should stay close to the shore and use a surface float
- Start early in summer to avoid crowds and boat traffic
- Carry a DSMB when diving the wrecks
When to visit
April to November, early in the day, when the water is calm and fewer visitors are in the water.
Accessibility
The shoreline is rocky and uneven, so the site is not suitable for wheelchair users and is demanding for anyone with limited mobility.
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Frequently asked questions
Which wrecks lie at Zonqor Point?
The tugboats Tug 10 and St Michael lie as shallow wrecks off the point. They can be visited by certified divers and, where depth allows, viewed by snorkellers.
Can non-divers snorkel here?
Yes, the shallow reefs on both sides of the peninsula suit confident swimmers with mask, fins and snorkel. Conditions should be checked first because the point is exposed.
How do visitors reach the dive site?
The site is about 1 km north-east of Marsaskala town centre, near Triq Ghar ix-Xama. It is entered from the shore, with no boat required.