The 1961 Malta Expedition was a two‑month diving‑based research project focused on developing and testing advanced underwater techniques applicable to marine archaeology. Building on earlier expeditions in the Azores and Cornwall, the team sought to move beyond simple observational dives and instead establish methods for effective deep‑water work, including improved underwater recording, prolonged safe operation at significant depths, and enhanced diver mobility and communication.
A team of eight trained aqualung divers, supported by a botanist and a catering supervisor, travelled to Malta in July 1961. Their objectives were shaped through consultation with the University of London Institute of Archaeology and Maltese specialists. The expedition’s work centred on two primary archaeological sites—Marsaxlokk Bay in Malta and Xlendi Reef in Gozo—with supplementary investigations at Salina Bay and several biological collections made throughout the islands.
The first month (7 July–7 August) was spent surveying Marsaxlokk Bay, believed to contain remains from Roman occupation and the 1565 Turkish invasion. Despite extensive systematic searches using aquaplanes and refined scanning methods, no archaeological material was found. This period served as an essential proving ground for diving techniques, equipment evaluation, and team coordination.
From 7–29 August, the team shifted operations to Xlendi Reef, where Royal Navy divers had earlier discovered Classical pottery but were limited by depth regulations. The divers developed new decompression tables enabling daily 20‑minute dives at 65m with their standard aqualungs. They successfully surveyed the reef and recovered approximately twenty complete amphorae and several anchor stocks from what appeared to be a 3rd–2nd century BC shipwreck. These artefacts were deposited in the Gozo Museum.
Additional work included biological sampling for the British Museum, mapping submerged structures at Salina Bay, and testing new equipment such as diver‑to‑surface telephones and electric tugs. The expedition significantly advanced deep‑water archaeological diving practice and stimulated further research initiatives in both Malta and London.