Full day private charter around Comino, Gozo & Malta

Comprehensive Review of the Full Day Private Charter Around Comino, Gozo & Malta

Traveling through Malta’s waters offers a chance to see some of the most beautiful and nearly untouched parts of this small Mediterranean island nation. This private boat tour, operated on a charming luzzu — a traditional Maltese fishing boat — promises an intimate day exploring the coastlines, beaches, caves, and scenic bays of Malta, Comino, and Gozo. With a full seven hours onboard, it’s perfect for travelers seeking an authentic experience, away from crowded tours and impersonal groupings.

Two features stand out: the customizable itinerary based on your interests and the chance to snorkel in crystal-clear waters, combined with the onboard bar offering local drinks and snacks. A potential consideration is that weather conditions can influence the route — the skipper may adjust stops if the seas turn rough. This tour is best suited for those who enjoy relaxed exploration, scenic beaches, and the comfort of a private vessel.

Key Points

• Private and flexible: You own the boat for the day, making it ideal for personalized experiences.
• Cultural and natural highlights: Visit iconic caves, beaches, and the Blue Lagoon for swimming and snorkeling.
• Facilities onboard: Restroom, freshwater shower, bar with drinks, snorkeling gear, paddle boards, and Bluetooth sound system.
• Comprehensive itinerary: Multiple scenic stops, including Santa Maria Caves, Mgarr ix-Xini, and Popeye Village.
• Value for money: At $715 for up to 20 people, the cost breaks down well considering the private experience and all included amenities.
• Ideal for families and groups: The full day with a dedicated skipper ensures comfort and personalized attention.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Maltese Waters: What You Can Expect

We loved the way this tour combines sightseeing with relaxation and fun. You and your group will be cruising along Malta’s coastlines in a beautifully renovated luzzu, a boat that’s famous for its colorful, traditional design. The guides are knowledgeable and eager to share insights, making your day both educational and entertaining.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Start & Pickup Points:
The tour begins with convenient pick-up options at Sea Life Cruises or Mgarr, with the boat departing from a location behind the Gozo Fuel Station. This flexibility means you won’t waste precious time traveling to your boat — just show up and get ready for a full day of discovery.

First Stop: Crystal Lagoon
This is a prime spot for swimming and snorkeling, with the added thrill of parasailing if you’re feeling adventurous. The lagoon’s caves, especially the one beneath Saint Mary’s tower, offer a unique experience — swimming through a cave to a sandy beach inside. The lagoon’s calm waters and caves make it a favorite among previous guests who praise its “amazing swimming spots” and “spectacular caves.”

Blue Lagoon:
Arguably Malta’s most famous highlight, the Blue Lagoon’s turquoise waters and sandy beaches are postcard-perfect. Expect plenty of photo opportunities here, along with time to snorkel or relax onshore. Several reviews highlight the “crystal-clear waters” and “delicious local snacks and drinks served in pineapples.” Be aware that this popular spot can get crowded, but a private tour ensures you can enjoy it at your own pace.

Santa Maria Bay & Santa Maria Caves:
These quieter beaches offer a peaceful setting, ideal for families or those seeking a more relaxed swim. When visiting the Santa Maria Caves, you’ll get a chance to enter natural caves and even swim inside a pond within one — a truly unusual experience. The caves are also notable for their film connection, having been a filming location for the Count of Monte Cristo, adding a layer of cinematic charm to your visit.

San Niklaw Bay & Dahlet Qorrot:
San Niklaw Bay offers a serene environment, perfect for those wanting to avoid the larger crowds of Blue Lagoon. Dahlet Qorrot, with its remarkably clear waters, is perfect for snorkeling and exploring marine life. These spots are praised by travelers for their “beautiful waters” and “excellent snorkeling.”

Mgarr ix-Xini & Popeye Village:
Mgarr ix-Xini is more than just a scenic bay; it’s also a top snorkel spot, with calm waters at the end of a picturesque valley. Popeye Village, while more touristy, provides a fun, family-friendly stop with its colorful set, which has a whimsical, nostalgic appeal.

The Experience on Board

The renovated luzzu is equipped with modern comforts — restroom, freshwater shower, and a bar serving local drinks and snacks. The sound system connected via Bluetooth lets you set your playlist, adding a personal touch to the day. Kayak and paddle boards are included, giving you more options to enjoy the coast.

Guests often comment positively on the “knowledgeable guides” who make the trip special by sharing local lore and ensuring they see the highlights. The boat’s size — up to 20 people — offers intimacy without feeling crowded, making it suitable for families, couples, or private groups.

The Value and Practicalities

At $715 for a group of up to 20, this experience offers an economical way to enjoy a full day on Malta’s waters, especially considering that all amenities, snorkeling gear, and a private skipper are included. That breaks down to around $35 per person if you’re in a full group — a fair price for the comfort, flexibility, and personalized service.

Timing-wise, the tour lasts about 7 hours with multiple short sightseeing cruises and stops, giving you a good balance of activity and relaxation. You can check available start times, but most departures are flexible enough to fit your schedule.

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What We Appreciate Most

• The customizable nature of the day allows you to focus on your favorite spots or explore new ones without rushing.
• The quality of the guides and their ability to share stories and insights makes the experience engaging and educational.
• The variety of stops, from caves and beaches to historical sites like Popeye Village, means no two days are the same.
• The amenities onboard (bar, snorkeling gear, paddle boards) enhance the comfort and fun factor.

Considering the Experience

While the tour provides a fantastic overview of Malta’s coastal beauty, weather can influence which stops are possible. Skippers are flexible and will prioritize safety, but if the seas turn rough, some spots might be skipped or shortened. This is worth keeping in mind when planning your day.

Also, since Popeye Village and Ghadira Bay are only visited upon request, it’s best to communicate your interests beforehand. This way, your skipper can tailor the day to your preferences.

Who Should Choose This Tour?

This private boat experience suits travelers looking for a relaxed, personalized day on the water, away from large tour groups. It’s perfect for families, couples, or small groups wanting to snorkel, swim, and enjoy Malta’s natural beauty in style. Adventure seekers can add parasailing, while those wanting cultural tidbits will appreciate the stories about caves and filming locations.

If you value flexibility, comfort, and authentic scenic experiences, this tour ticks all the boxes. It’s a way to see Malta from a different perspective, with the added bonus of having your own boat for the day.

Final Thoughts

For travelers seeking a well-rounded, value-packed day on Malta’s waters, this private charter offers an excellent combination of scenic beauty, cultural highlights, and onboard comfort. You’ll love the way the guides blend local knowledge with genuine friendliness, making the experience truly memorable. The opportunity to snorkel in pristine waters, explore caves, and relax at iconic beaches makes it a standout choice.

While it might not be suited for those prone to seasickness or seeking a more structured, large-group tour, it’s ideal for anyone craving a flexible, intimate adventure. With attention to detail and a focus on authentic experiences, this tour provides a meaningful way to enjoy Malta’s coastline.

In short, if you’re looking for private, scenic, and relaxing exploration of Malta’s coastal treasures, this full-day boat trip offers substantial value and memorable sights.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families with children?
Yes, the private nature and calm waters of many stops make it family-friendly. The boat is equipped with amenities suitable for children, and the stops include beaches and caves where kids can enjoy swimming and exploring.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), and possibly waterproof camera gear. The boat provides snorkeling masks and paddle boards, but you may want to bring your own if preferred.

Can I customize the stops or itinerary?
The tour is designed to be flexible, and the skipper can adjust the route based on weather and your preferences, such as visiting Popeye Village or other spots upon request.

How long do we stay at each location?
The itinerary includes around 7 hours of cruising and stops, with specific durations at each location, such as 1 hour at the Blue Lagoon and 30 minutes at Santa Maria Bay. These can vary slightly depending on weather and skipper decisions.

Is food included in the tour?
Local appetizers, snacks, and beverages are served aboard throughout the day, with alcoholic drinks also available at the onboard bar. There’s no mention of a full meal, so you might want to bring extra snacks if needed.

What is the maximum group size?
Up to 20 people, making it a personal and intimate experience. Larger groups up to 40 are possible but may require a different arrangement.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The skipper may deviate from some stops for safety reasons. It’s a good idea to check weather forecasts beforehand and be flexible about the specific spots visited.

This private Malta boat tour offers a fantastic way to see the islands’ coast in comfort, with the flexibility to tailor your day. Whether you’re snorkeling, exploring caves, or simply relaxing with local drinks, it’s a memorable way to experience Malta’s natural beauty.

You can check availability for your dates here: