Full day private charter around Comino, Gozo & Malta

Exploring Malta, Gozo, and Comino by Private Boat: A Truly Authentic Day in the Mediterranean

Taking a full-day private boat trip around Malta’s stunning islands promises a mix of natural beauty, cultural sights, and leisurely fun. The experience centers on a traditional luzzu, a vibrantly painted fishing boat that has become a symbol of Maltese culture, recently renovated for a touch of luxury. With the boat capable of comfortably accommodating up to 20 guests for around 7 hours, this tour offers a balanced mix of sightseeing, swimming, and relaxation.

What we particularly love about this experience is how flexible it is — your guide will tailor the stops based on weather and your preferences, making it feel personalized and spontaneous. Plus, the onboard bar serving alcoholic drinks, soft drinks, snacks, and ice-cream really enhances the laid-back vibe.

One thing to keep in mind is that, due to weather conditions, some stops like Popeye Village or Ghadira Bay may be skipped or altered. This is standard for outdoor activities, but it’s worth noting if you have specific sights in mind. This tour suits travelers who want a private, relaxed day on the water, with ample opportunities to snorkel, soak up scenery, and enjoy local food and drink.

Key Points

• Private, customizable experience with an emphasis on customer satisfaction.
• Stunning stops like Blue Lagoon, Santa Maria Caves, and Crystal Lagoon offer fantastic swimming and photo opportunities.
• Cultural highlights, including the Santa Maria caves and filming sites for the Count of Monte Cristo.
• Onboard amenities such as a bar, snorkeling masks, paddleboards, restroom, and freshwater shower add comfort.
• Flexible itinerary allows for spontaneous changes based on weather and group preferences.
• Great value for money when considering the inclusions and personalized experience.

The Comfortable and Authentic Maltese Boat Experience

Our review of this private boat tour focuses on how it balances the scenic beauty of Malta with the comfort and flexibility that makes for a memorable day. The vessel, a traditional luzzu, isn’t just a pretty face; it’s recently refurbished to meet luxury standards while maintaining its traditional charm. It’s a floating piece of Maltese culture, and you’ll love how it stands out against the turquoise waters.

Travelers can expect a well-equipped vessel: a sound system connected via Bluetooth, a restroom, a freshwater shower, and a bar serving a variety of drinks and snacks. This means you can relax in style without feeling cramped or uncomfortable. For those who love water activities, snorkeling masks and paddleboards are on hand—making it easy to float around reefs and explore underwater marvels or just lounge with a drink in hand.

The guides, who speak both English and Italian, are known for their knowledgeable and friendly approach. They aim to make your trip both fun and educational, sharing insights about the islands’ history and geology. As one reviewer noted, “The guides are passionate about their islands and really eager to share their stories,” which adds a layer of authenticity many other tours miss.

Unpacking the Itinerary: What You’ll See and Do

The day is thoughtfully planned with frequent stops at the most photogenic and culturally interesting spots. Starting from either Sea Life Cruises or Mgarr, the tour kicks off with a brief sightseeing cruise, giving you your first scenic glimpses of the coast.

Crystal Lagoon is the first major stop—here, you’ll have about an hour to swim, snorkel, or try parasailing. The lagoon’s crystal-clear waters and the two caves that adorn it are a highlight. One of these caves, located under Saint Mary’s Tower, features a sandy beach at its end—a perfect spot for a quick swim or just soaking in the views. As one guest put it, “Swimming through the caves was surreal, like being in a natural aquarium.”

Next up is the Blue Lagoon on Malta, arguably the most famous stop. Expect stunning scenic views on the way and plenty of time to relax, swim, and snorkel. The lagoon’s turquoise waters and sandy beaches are perfect for lounging, with kiosks nearby offering food, drinks, and even parasailing. It’s a true Maltese postcard moment, and many reviewers mention that the Blue Lagoon is the one place they could’ve stayed longer.

Moving to the Santa Maria Bay on Malta, you get another chance to swim in peaceful surroundings, especially appealing for families or travelers looking for calmer waters. The Santa Maria Caves are the next highlight, offering both a visual treat and the chance to go inside a natural cave. The caves have a fascinating history—this is where the Count of Monte Cristo was filmed, providing a bonus for movie buffs.

Other stops include Mgarr ix-Xini, famed for its tranquility and excellent snorkeling, and Ramla and San Blas beaches, known for their golden sands and clear waters. Dahlet Qorrot stands out for its superb snorkeling spots with pristine conditions. Each location offers roughly 20-30 minutes to swim, take photos, or just relax in the sun.

The tour also includes a stop at Popeye Village, ideal for families, and a final sightseeing cruise that wraps up the day before heading back to your pickup point. The flexible itinerary means your guide may skip some stops if weather conditions aren’t ideal, but they’ll always ensure you get the best possible experience.

Realistic Expectations: What Makes This Tour Stand Out

One aspect that stands out from reviews is the knowledge and friendliness of the guides. Guests consistently mention how guides like “Michael and Francesco” went out of their way to share interesting facts and ensure everyone was comfortable. They seemed genuinely eager to make the trip memorable, not just a scenic cruise.

The snorkeling spots, particularly the caves and reefs, receive high praise. Reviews note that the snorkel equipment provided is of good quality, and the water clarity is excellent—perfect for spotting marine life and underwater caves. The paddleboards add fun for those who prefer floating or gentle paddling.

As far as value for money, the cost of $715 for a group of up to 20 guests seems justified when considering the inclusions—bar, snorkeling gear, food, and the personalized service. The tour’s long duration and the chance to explore multiple islands and beaches make it a comprehensive experience.

The timing (around 7 hours) is generous enough to avoid feeling rushed. The start times are flexible, so you can choose what suits your schedule, and the pickup options make logistics easy.

Practical Tips for Booking and Making the Most of Your Day

• Book early to secure your preferred start time, especially in peak season.
• Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses, as you’ll spend much of the day in direct sun.
• Pack a towel and extra dry clothes for after swimming.
• If you’re keen on water sports or parasailing, plan to arrive early at the Lagoon, as spots can fill up.
• Keep in mind that weather can affect the itinerary—be flexible and trust your guides to prioritize safety.
• For families, note that Dahlet Qorrot and San Blas beaches tend to be calmer, ideal for children.
• Alcohol consumption is allowed onboard, but drink responsibly, especially if you plan to swim afterward.

Who This Tour Is Perfect For

This private boat experience is best suited for those who value flexibility, comfort, and authenticity. It’s ideal for groups of friends, families, or couples seeking a personalized adventure with plenty of opportunities to snorkel and relax. If you love a mix of scenic beauty, cultural sights, and water-based activities, this tour will tick all your boxes.

Travelers who prefer a more relaxed, less crowded day on the water will especially appreciate the private setting and the chance to customize the stops. The onboard bar, the scenic caves, and the tranquil beaches make it an enjoyable experience for both adventure-seekers and sunbathers.

However, those looking for an organized group tour with fixed stops or a strict schedule might find this experience more flexible than they prefer. Also, if your priority is visiting specific landmarks or beaches, double-check with the provider about the possibility of customizing the itinerary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, especially since some stops like San Blas and Dahlet Qorrot have calmer waters and sandy beaches, making it family-friendly. The tour also visits Popeye Village, which kids generally enjoy.

Are meals or drinks included?
No, but there is a bar onboard serving alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, snacks, and ice-cream. Local appetizers are also provided during the trip, adding a tasty touch.

How long is each stop?
Most stops last between 20 to 30 minutes, giving enough time to swim, take photos, or explore caves without feeling rushed.

Can I snorkel at every stop?
Snorkeling is available at many key locations like Blue Lagoon, Santa Maria Caves, and Mgarr ix-Xini. The provided masks are of good quality, and the water clarity is generally excellent.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, a towel, and extra clothes for after swimming. You might also want to bring a waterproof camera for capturing underwater moments.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, the skipper may deviate from some spots if weather conditions are adverse for safety. Flexibility is built into the experience, so trust your guides to make the best call.

Are there any hidden costs?
No hidden charges are mentioned; the price covers the boat, guides, snorkeling gear, and onboard refreshments. Any additional water sports or parasailing might incur extra costs.

Wrapping Up: Who Will Love This Day Out

This private Maltese boat tour offers a perfect blend of scenic beauty, cultural interest, and relaxed fun on the water. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate personalized service and want to see the islands in a flexible, comfortable setting. The inclusion of snorkeling, caves, beaches, and a traditional luzzu makes it an immersive, authentic experience that captures Malta’s coastal charm.

Travelers seeking a well-rounded, engaging day that combines natural wonders with light adventure and cultural sights will find this tour to be a fantastic choice. The knowledgeable guides, excellent amenities, and stunning scenery mean it’s more than just a boat ride—it’s a memorable Malta highlight.

In brief, for anyone wanting to explore Malta’s coast with a private, relaxed, and well-organized experience, this boat tour delivers on all fronts. Whether you’re into snorkeling, photography, or simply soaking up the sun on a pristine beach, this trip offers a great way to enjoy Malta’s maritime treasures in comfort and style.