Diving Ras il-Ħobż
Ras il-Ħobż, also known as Middle Finger, is a remarkable underwater pinnacle on the south coast of Gozo. The rock rises dramatically from deep water, with its upper section reaching to around 8–10 metres below the surface.
The site is particularly interesting because of the enormous change in depth around the pinnacle. The narrow channel between the rock and the shore reaches approximately 35 metres, while the seaward side drops dramatically into much deeper water.
The Middle Finger
The name Middle Finger refers to the distinctive shape of the underwater pinnacle. Rising from the surrounding seabed, the formation gives the dive its unusual character and provides a dramatic focal point as divers descend and swim around it.
Although the deepest water around the pinnacle is beyond normal recreational diving limits, the upper part of the formation can be explored at considerably shallower depths. This makes it possible to experience the site without necessarily following the deepest routes.
The Pinnacle
The pinnacle rises from deep water to within approximately 8–10 metres of the surface. Its walls and rocky surfaces provide numerous cracks, ledges and sheltered areas for marine life.
The narrow channel between the pinnacle and the shoreline reaches around 35 metres. On the seaward side, the seabed falls away dramatically, eventually reaching depths of more than 100 metres according to published dive-site descriptions.
Shallow Reef
A nearby shallow plateau reaches only around 5 metres and provides a useful area for training, safety stops and decompression. It also offers a very different environment from the deep walls surrounding the main pinnacle.
The shallow reef can be particularly interesting when light levels are good, with cracks, rocks and seagrass providing shelter for smaller marine life.
Marine life
Ras il-Ħobż is known for its rich marine life. Divers may encounter groupers, dentex, amberjack, moray eels, octopus, lobsters and other Mediterranean reef species around the pinnacle and its surrounding rocks.
The deeper open-water environment also provides opportunities for encounters with larger pelagic species. Marine-life sightings are never guaranteed, but the combination of deep water, rock formations and sheltered cracks makes the site particularly productive.
Depth and dive planning
The published depth figures for Ras il-Ħobż vary because different descriptions include different parts of the pinnacle, channel and surrounding deep-water wall.
The top of the pinnacle is around 8–10 metres below the surface, while the channel between the pinnacle and shore reaches approximately 35 metres. The seaward side continues to depths exceeding 100 metres.
Photographs
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Location
Ras il-Ħobż is on the southern coast of Gozo near Għajnsielem, close to the Mġarr ix-Xini area. The dive is accessed from the shore and centres on the large underwater pinnacle known as Middle Finger.
Location & map
Ras il-Ħobż is on Gozo's southern coast near Għajnsielem and Mġarr ix-Xini. The dive site is centred on the distinctive underwater pinnacle known as Middle Finger.
Ras il-Ħobż diving FAQ
Where is Ras il-Ħobż?
Ras il-Ħobż is on the southern coast of Gozo near Għajnsielem and the Mġarr ix-Xini area. The dive site is also known as Middle Finger.
Why is Ras il-Ħobż called Middle Finger?
The site is known as Middle Finger because its large underwater pinnacle rises dramatically from the surrounding deep water, creating the distinctive shape from which the English nickname is derived.
How deep is Ras il-Ħobż?
The top of the pinnacle is approximately 8–10 metres below the surface. The channel between the pinnacle and shore reaches around 35 metres, while the seaward side drops to much greater depths.
What level of diver is recommended?
The site can be explored at different depths, but Advanced-level experience is recommended for the deeper channel and wall sections. Technical divers can explore considerably deeper water around the pinnacle.
What marine life can be seen at Ras il-Ħobż?
Divers may encounter groupers, dentex, amberjack, moray eels, octopus, lobsters, barracuda and many other Mediterranean reef species.
Is Ras il-Ħobż suitable for shore diving?
Yes. Ras il-Ħobż is accessed from the shore. Entry conditions, sea state and currents should always be assessed before entering the water.