BBQ Bay Cruises: Elephant Rock, Blue Lagoon, Gozo & Comino

Exploring Malta by boat offers a different perspective of this stunning archipelago. The BBQ Bay Cruises provide a curated private experience, combining sightseeing, snorkeling, and a delicious BBQ—all wrapped up in a three-hour adventure. Whether you’re looking for a romantic escape or a fun family outing, this tour promises picturesque views and memorable moments on Malta’s clear waters.

What caught our eye is how flexible and personalized this experience can be—your own private boat, your preferred spots, and a catered BBQ feast. On the flip side, some travelers note that the experience depends heavily on weather conditions and punctuality, so being prepared is key. It’s a perfect fit for those who value intimate, scenic trips with a focus on comfort and customization, especially if you’re eager to avoid crowded tourist spots.

Key Points

• Private & Personalized: The tour is exclusive for your group of up to six, allowing for a tailored experience.
• Scenic & Snorkeling Spots: Highlights include Comino’s caves, the Blue Lagoon’s turquoise waters, and the scenic coastlines of Gozo.
• Comfort & Convenience: The boat has comfortable seating, sun decks, shade canopies, and amenities like WiFi and Bluetooth speakers.
• Food & Drinks: Savor a BBQ feast prepared on the boat, with options for customization based on weather and tide conditions.
• Flexible & Weather-Dependent: The skipper may alter routes or timings to ensure safety and the best experience.
• Excellent for Relaxed Exploration: Ideal for travelers who want a private, relaxed atmosphere with the freedom to choose their stops.

A Closer Look at the Experience

This private boat tour is designed to blend sightseeing with leisure, perfectly suited for those who want a more intimate encounter with Malta’s coastlines. Priced at $182 per group (up to six people), it offers genuine value considering the exclusivity and the personalized nature of the trip. The boat itself is equipped with all essentials—comfortable seating, shaded canopies, safety gear, and even WiFi, which is a nice touch for sharing those photos instantly.

Departure points are conveniently located at Mgarr Harbour for Gozo, near Sicilia Bella Restaurant, and in Cirkewwa on Malta, close to the Kiosk at the Gozo Channel Terminal. Booking is flexible, with a “reserve now, pay later” option and a full refund available if canceled 24 hours in advance.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Exploring Comino and Elephant Rock

The tour starts with a cruise around Comino’s coast, where your skipper will navigate past stunning caves and quiet coves. If you’re lucky, you might get to see Elephant Rock, one of Malta’s iconic natural formations. Reviewers mention the guides’ expertise in choosing the best spots, which means you’ll get to see some lesser-known areas that aren’t crowded with travelers.

Blue Lagoon’s Tranquil Waters

The highlight for many is the Blue Lagoon, renowned for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life. You’ll have time to swim, snorkel, or just lounge on the boat while soaking in the views. The Blue Lagoon permits included in the package ensure you can enjoy this pristine spot without hassle. Several reviews note that the lagoon gets crowded later in the day, so an early start is recommended for those seeking peace.

Off to Gozo and Hidden Coves

Next, the boat heads toward Gozo’s coastline, revealing more secluded beaches and caves. This stretch offers plenty of opportunities for photography and contemplation—an ideal backdrop for a relaxed, unhurried experience.

Snorkelling and Swimming Opportunities

Snorkel gear is provided, and many reviewers appreciated the chance to explore underwater caves and vibrant marine life. The calm, shallow waters near the beaches are perfect for novice snorkelers, while more adventurous travelers can explore the caves with a bit of caution. The clarity of the water, as one reviewer put it, allows you to “see the fish and the rocks as if they’re right next to you.”

The BBQ Feast

After hours of exploring, the boat transforms into a floating feast hall. You can expect a delicious BBQ, prepared on board, with options for customization based on the skipper’s guidance and weather conditions. Reviewers loved the laid-back atmosphere, describing it as “a unique way to enjoy good food while cruising along stunning scenery.” The sound system with Bluetooth speakers allows you to enjoy your favorite tunes, adding to the fun.

Flexibility and Safety

The skipper retains full authority to adjust routes or timings if weather conditions change. This flexibility was praised in reviews, with one noting, “Our skipper was attentive and made sure we had the best possible experience, even if it meant changing plans last minute.”

Why This Tour Stands Out

The personalization aspect is a big plus—it’s not a cookie-cutter tour but a private experience where you can choose to spend more time at certain spots or explore hidden caves and beaches. The skipper’s local knowledge and ability to select optimal locations based on tides, weather, and your preferences make a significant difference. Several reviews mention how the guides are friendly and well-informed, adding value to the trip.

On top of that, the inclusion of amenities like WiFi, Bluetooth speakers, and snorkeling gear elevates the experience from just a boat trip to a full day of relaxation and fun. The boat’s design with ample sun decks and shaded areas ensures comfort, even on warmer days.

Considerations for Travelers

While this experience is largely positive, some aspects are worth keeping in mind. Since weather conditions can impact the route, travelers should be prepared for potential changes to the itinerary. Promptness is important—arriving 30 minutes early helps ensure you’re ready to set sail on time. The tour is priced per boat, not per person, so it’s quite economical for groups wanting a private adventure.

If you’re looking for a lively party scene, this might not be the right activity; it’s more about relaxed exploration and enjoying the scenery, with good food as a bonus. Also, note that additional expenses like food, drinks, or fishing gear are not included, so plan your own provisions if desired.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This boat cruise is perfect for couples, small families, or friends seeking a quiet, private day on Malta’s waters. It’s especially suitable for those wanting to avoid crowded tourist spots and enjoy a customized experience with personal attention. If snorkeling and a fresh BBQ appeal to you, this trip ticks all the boxes. It also suits travelers who appreciate flexibility, safety, and comfort, thanks to the knowledgeable skipper and well-equipped boat.

Final Thoughts

This private boat tour offers a combination of scenic beauty, relaxed exploration, and good food—all in an intimate setting. The ability to customize your stops, combined with the stunning natural sites like Blue Lagoon and Elephant Rock, makes it a compelling choice for anyone wanting to see Malta from the water in style.

While weather can influence the itinerary, the skipper’s expertise ensures you’ll get the best experience possible. The inclusion of amenities like WiFi, snorkeling equipment, and a comfy sun deck adds convenience and comfort, making this more than just a boat ride—it’s a floating escape.

In short, if you’re after a peaceful, personalized adventure with incredible views and a tasty BBQ, this tour is well worth considering. It’s especially valuable for travelers who want to experience Malta’s coastlines without the hassle of large groups or crowded beaches.

FAQ

How many people can join this tour?
The private boat is designed for groups of up to six people, making it ideal for small, intimate trips.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the exclusive private boat, snorkeling equipment, safety gear, WiFi, Bluetooth speakers, and Lagoon permits. Food and drinks are not included.

Can I customize the route or stops?
Yes, you can tailor the experience with your skipper, who will suggest the best locations based on weather, tides, and your preferences.

Where is the departure point?
In Gozo, the boat departs from Mgarr Harbour near Sicilia Bella Restaurant. In Malta, the departure point is Cirkewwa, close to the Kiosk at the Gozo Channel Terminal.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours. Check availability for specific starting times.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen to make the most of your time on the water.

In summary, this private BBQ cruise around Malta’s coast offers an authentic, relaxing way to explore the islands with a focus on comfort, scenery, and personalized touches. It’s a fantastic choice for those wanting a memorable day on the water—without the crowds and with plenty of time to unwind, snorkel, and feast.