Snorkelling by the Shore in Malta: What You Can See Around Marfa & Ramla Bay (Near Bluewaves Watersports Malta)
Malta’s northern tip is one of the island’s most underrated snorkelling spots—especially the stretch of shoreline around Marfa and Ramla Bay in Mellieħa. The area has calm, clear water, shallow rocky formations, and an incredible amount of marine life that stays close to shore.
And since Bluewaves Watersports Malta operates right in the Marfa/Ramla Bay area, it’s the perfect base for anyone who wants to explore the coastline either from the beach or by heading further out with one of their self‑drive boats, private boat rides, or jet ski safaris.
What Marine Life You Can See in Shallow Water Around Marfa
Snorkelling straight from the shoreline, right near Ramla Bay Resort, you can expect to spot a surprising variety of Mediterranean species. These shallow areas (1–4 metres deep) are ideal because they’re full of seagrass meadows, rock crevices, and sandy patches where fish love to hide.
Most common species you’ll see:
🌿 Posidonia Seagrass Fields
These aren’t fish, but they’re the heart of Malta’s marine ecosystem. You’ll find lots of life hiding inside.
These aren’t fish, but they’re the heart of Malta’s marine ecosystem. You’ll find lots of life hiding inside.
🐠 Damselfish (Williebaħar)
Small, dark, fast-moving fish that swarm around rocks in shallow water.
Small, dark, fast-moving fish that swarm around rocks in shallow water.
🐟 Wrasse (Ħamiem tal-Baħar)
Often brightly coloured—green, blue, orange. Very common and easy to spot along the rocky coast.
Often brightly coloured—green, blue, orange. Very common and easy to spot along the rocky coast.
🐠 Bream (Sparli / Sargi)
These swim in groups and aren’t shy. You’ll see them even knee‑deep.
These swim in groups and aren’t shy. You’ll see them even knee‑deep.
🐡 Filefish & Triggerfish
Slim and pattern‑covered; they hover around rocks and algae.
Slim and pattern‑covered; they hover around rocks and algae.
🦑 Small Squid & Cuttlefish
Common in sandy shallows—sometimes you see them change colour as they glide past.
Common in sandy shallows—sometimes you see them change colour as they glide past.
🦀 Crabs, starfish, sea urchins
Found around the rockier pockets. Sea urchins are extremely common—good water shoes help.
Found around the rockier pockets. Sea urchins are extremely common—good water shoes help.
🐙 Octopus
If you’re patient, you may spot one hiding in a rock cavity.
If you’re patient, you may spot one hiding in a rock cavity.
Why the Marfa shoreline is great for snorkelling
- Sheltered coves reduce wave action, keeping visibility high.
- Rocky seabeds attract fish and marine creatures that love staying near shore.
- Sandy patches + seagrass meadows create a perfect mix of habitats.
- Very clear water—especially early morning.
This area is also incredibly peaceful compared to busier spots like Mellieħa Bay or Sliema.
Exploring the coastline further with Bluewaves Watersports Malta
If you want to go beyond the shoreline and snorkel in more remote areas, Bluewaves offers several options right in the Marfa/Ramla Bay area:
🚤 Self‑Drive Boat Hire (no licence needed for some boats)
Perfect for stopping at quiet coves between Marfa and Comino. Great for snorkelling in places you cannot reach from land.
(Driver age rules and experience requirements apply.)
(Driver age rules and experience requirements apply.)
⛵ Private Boat Rides with a Skipper
If you prefer a guide who knows the best snorkelling pockets around Crystal Lagoon, Santa Marija Caves, or the coves behind Comino, this is ideal.
🛥 Speedboat trips to Comino
Their 3–3.5 hour trips include cave visits and time around snorkelling hotspots with extremely clear water.
🌅 Jet Ski Safari (including Sunset Safari)
Not directly snorkelling, but a fantastic way to scout out Comino’s coastline and later return by boat to swim in the quieter spots.
Bluewaves has over 30 years of experience, and all activities include a safety briefing plus a zero‑alcohol policy to keep everyone safe on the water.
Safety Tips for Shore Snorkelling in Marfa
- Wear water shoes (lots of sea urchins).
- Avoid windy days—visibility drops quickly.
- Don’t touch or step on seagrass meadows.
- Watch out for incoming boats—stay close to shore.
- Early morning = best visibility + calmest water.
- Never snorkel alone.
If you go out with Bluewaves by boat or jet ski, just make sure to arrive on time and remember trips may change due to weather or technical reasons.
Mini‑FAQ
Usually only 1–4 metres along the first 20–30m, perfect for easy snorkelling.
Sometimes, depending on currents. Malta’s common species are not dangerous, but always observe before entering.
Check availability—especially in summer and weekends—as all activities depend on weather and demand.
Bluewaves focuses on boat and watercraft services; bring your own snorkelling gear.
