Comino and Gozo Private Boat Tour : Julie Pearl Boat

Imagine cruising along Malta’s shimmering waters, stopping at crystal-clear bays and caves, with your own private skipper guiding the way. That’s exactly what the Comino and Gozo Private Boat Tour with Julie Pearl Boat offers—a flexible, comfortable, and truly personalized day at sea. Whether you’re after stunning scenery, prime snorkeling spots, or just a relaxing day away from crowded beaches, this tour provides a wonderful way to see some of the archipelago’s most beautiful sights.

What makes this trip stand out? First, the custom-built, spacious boats are designed for comfort, with both shaded and sunbathing areas, plus amenities like a toilet and stereo. Second, the tour’s flexibility—being able to choose your duration and stops—means you can tailor it to your interests and energy levels.

However, it’s worth noting that, while the boats are licensed for 25 passengers, the recommendation for longer trips is to keep groups to no more than 15 for maximum comfort. The price per group (up to 15 people) might seem steep at $616.53, but considering the personalized experience, private Skipper, and access to several spectacular locations, many find it well worth the cost—especially if you’re traveling with friends or family.

This tour is ideal for travelers who value customization, comfort, and a relaxed pace. It’s perfect for groups seeking a private escape, mixed with active swimming and snorkeling, or simply a scenic cruise to enjoy Malta’s best bays.

Key Points

• Private and customizable trip, with flexibility on duration and stops.
• Comfortable, well-equipped boats designed for leisure with shade, sunbathing, and amenities.
• Multiple scenic stops, from famous Blue Lagoon to hidden caves and quiet bays.
• Excellent value for a private experience, especially for groups up to 15.
• Ideal for swimmers, snorkelers, and nature lovers wanting a personalized sea adventure.
• Great reviews highlight good communication, helpful skippers, and stunning scenery.

The Itinerary in Detail: What You Can Expect

Starting Point and Duration

The tour begins with an easy pickup or meeting point, and the duration can be tailored from 2 to 6 hours. This flexibility means you can opt for a quick half-day cruise or a more leisurely exploration, depending on your schedule and interest. The boats are licensed for 25 guests, but during longer trips, groups are recommended to stay under 15 for added comfort—something many reviewers appreciate, especially when relaxing or enjoying activities like swimming and sunbathing.

Stop 1: The Blue Lagoon

The Blue Lagoon on Comino is the highlight for many visitors—and for good reason. The shallow, bright blue waters and crystal-clear quality make it one of the most photographed spots in Malta. During high season, it attracts large crowds, but on a private tour, you get the advantage of choosing your perfect anchoring spot, avoiding the chaos.

We loved the way the boat anchors in a prime swimming and snorkeling spot—giving everyone a chance to cool off in that famous, inviting water. Snorkeling gear is provided free of charge, letting you explore the underwater world with ease. Expect to spend about two hours here, soaking up the sun or floating in that beautiful water. One reviewer called it “a must,” emphasizing the spectacular views and the chance to swim in pristine waters.

Stop 2: Crystal Lagoon

Next, the boat heads to Crystal Lagoon on the north-west side of Comino, known for its turquoise waters and scenic caves. This is a quieter spot, perfect for those wanting a little more tranquility. Here, you can snorkel in shallow sandy beds or explore caves where movies like Lovers Cave and Popeye’s Cave were filmed—adding a touch of Hollywood magic to your day.

The approximately 1.5-hour stop is ideal for relaxing, swimming, or even fishing for bream, which are common in these waters. The caves are shallow but dramatic, offering great photo opportunities or just a peaceful backdrop for your swim. As one guest noted, “We did another stop for swimming and snorkeling, and the caves were stunning.”

Stop 3: The Coast of Gozo

Cruising toward the south coast of Gozo, the boat passes by Qala, giving you sweeping views of the island’s rugged coastlines. The stops include Tal-Halfa beach—a quiet, clay-rich beach behind a lone rock called Halfa Rock, steeped in history—Hondoq Bay, a lovely pebbly beach with vibrant blue waters, and the Bemberin Gorge, a hidden inlet with caves accessible only by boat.

This part of the trip is especially suited for cliff diving enthusiasts and those who love exploring caves. The water here is crystal clear, making it perfect for swimming and taking in the scenery. Travelers have raved about the crystal waters and the secluded charm of these spots.

Stop 4: Santa Marija Bay

For a relaxing, quieter experience, the boat visits Santa Marija Bay. This small sandy beach is less crowded than Blue Lagoon and offers a peaceful setting, perfect for unwinding. The shallow, clear waters are ideal for lounging or gentle swimming. Surrounded by tamarisk trees, you’ll find some shade when needed, making it a good spot to stretch out and relax.

Elephant Rock and Santa Maria Caves

On the way back, the boat passes Elephant Rock, a natural arch formation that resembles an elephant drinking from the sea—an excellent photo op. The seabed here is sandy and suitable for all levels of divers, with depths from 3m to 18m.

The Santa Maria Caves are a highlight for cave lovers. These five shallow caves are some of the most fascinating natural formations in the area and have been used in films like The Count of Monte Cristo. The boat stops here for about 30 minutes, giving you a chance to admire the caves’ natural beauty.

What the Tour Includes and Excludes

Included in the price are snorkeling equipment, fuel surcharge, and the use of the boat’s amenities—like shade, open deck, bathing platform, and stereo. The tour does not include lunch or drinks, but you’re encouraged to bring your own. A cooler with ice is provided for free, so you can keep your snacks and beverages cold while enjoying the trip.

The private nature of the tour means you won’t be sharing the boat with strangers, which allows for a tailored experience. Whether you want more swimming, less time at certain stops, or just to relax and take in the scenery, your skipper will accommodate.

The Experience and the Feedback

Reviewers consistently praise the friendly and helpful skippers, mentioning how they allow guests control over stops and routes. One guest called the skipper “Fabio,” noting how helpful and accommodating he was, which truly enhances the overall experience.

Many also mention the stunning scenery—from the famous Blue Lagoon to hidden caves—making it clear that the views are the main highlight. The boat’s comfort and the opportunity to swim and snorkel in unspoiled waters are frequently mentioned as top reasons to choose this tour.

Some reviews point out the excellent communication and organization—Jeanette, the coordinator, keeps guests updated and arranges transfers smoothly, adding a layer of hassle-free planning.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This private boat trip offers great value for those who want a personalized, flexible day at sea in Malta. Its comfortable boats and professional skippers ensure a relaxed atmosphere, ideal for families, friends, or couples craving an intimate adventure. If you enjoy swimming, snorkeling, discovering caves, or just soaking up scenic views in a quiet, private setting, this tour ticks all those boxes.

While the cost might seem high for some, the all-inclusiveness, privacy, and flexibility make it a smart choice—especially for groups wanting to avoid crowded public tours. The ability to customize the stops, combined with the stunning locations, makes it a memorable way to experience Malta’s coastline.

However, if you prefer a more structured or guided experience with specific historical narration, you might find this tour’s focus on scenery and relaxation more appealing. It’s best suited for those who want to set their own pace and enjoy the sea with friends or loved ones.

Final Summary

In essence, the Comino and Gozo Private Boat Tour with Julie Pearl Boat offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, active swimming and snorkeling, and private comfort. It’s an excellent choice for those looking to explore Malta’s coast away from crowds, with the flexibility to craft the perfect day at sea.

This tour is particularly well-suited for travelers who value personalized experiences, scenic stops, and the freedom to choose how long to stay in each location. The friendly crew, comfortable boat, and stunning locations make it a worthwhile splurge for many visitors.

For those seeking a relaxed, scenic, and private boat adventure—complete with beautiful bays, caves, and tranquil beaches—this tour could be the highlight of your Malta trip.

FAQs

How long does the tour last?
The tour duration can be anywhere from 2 to 6 hours, depending on your preference and the stops you choose.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers the private boat, snorkeling equipment, fuel surcharge, and the use of amenities like shade, sunbathing deck, toilet, and stereo.

Are meals or drinks provided?
No, food and drinks are not included, but you’re encouraged to bring your own. A cooler with ice is supplied for keeping your refreshments cold.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s suitable for most travelers, including families. The shallow waters at some stops are great for kids, and the boat is equipped with necessary facilities.

Can I customize the stops or duration?
Absolutely, the tour is private and flexible, allowing you to choose how long to stay at each site and which stops to prioritize.

What is the maximum group size?
While the boats are licensed for 25 passengers, for longer trips and optimal comfort, groups are recommended to stay under 15 guests.

To sum it up, if you’re after a private, scenic, and comfortably paced boat experience in Malta, the Julie Pearl Boat tour offers a memorable way to explore Comino and Gozo’s most beautiful spots. It’s a smart choice for anyone wanting to combine adventure, relaxation, and stunning views in a personalized setting.