Gozo: Private Boat Tour to Comino with Swim Stops

Exploring Malta’s Hidden Waters: A Review of the Gozo Private Boat Tour to Comino

Seeking a way to experience Malta’s stunning coastlines without the crowds? This private boat tour from Gozo to Comino offers a promising escape into some of the clearest waters and most dramatic scenery around. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor, a photograph enthusiast, or just looking for a relaxing day on the water, this tour might be just what you need.

What drew us to this experience? First, the personalized touch of having your own boat with a licensed skipper promises a flexible, tailored adventure. Second, the chance to swim in famous spots like the Blue Lagoon and explore caves and lesser-known lagoons adds a sense of discovery that larger tours often lack.

One thing to keep in mind is that this tour is only three hours long. While that’s enough time to see some highlights, it does mean your stops are brief, especially at popular spots like the Blue Lagoon. It’s best suited for travelers who want a quick, intimate experience rather than a full-day cruise.

If you’re comfortable with a private boat and eager to avoid busy tour boats, this trip aligns well with your desire for flexibility, privacy, and authentic scenery. Plus, families with children over 16 and groups seeking a relaxed yet adventurous outing will find this offers excellent value for the price.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Private boat with an experienced skipper offers flexibility and privacy.
• Swim in Iconic Spots: Stops include the Blue Lagoon, Crystal Lagoon, and hidden caves—ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
• Scenic Highlights: Cruise past historic forts, sea caves, Elephant Rock, and rugged cliffs offering countless photo opportunities.
• Time-Efficient: At 3 hours, the tour provides a quick yet comprehensive taste of Comino’s waters.
• All-Inclusive: Fuel, snorkeling gear, safety equipment, music, and a licensed skipper are included.
• Family Friendly: Suitable for groups over 16, providing a safe, relaxed way to explore.

The Experience: What You’ll See and Do

Starting from Mgarr Harbour in Gozo, the tour begins with a swift 5-minute ride on a speedboat, quickly transitioning into a scenic cruise. Your skipper, a licensed local, will navigate past the Santa Marija Tower, a historic 17th-century sentinel perched high on the cliffs, offering impressive views and a photo-worthy backdrop.

From there, the real adventure begins with stops at some of the area’s most stunning swimming spots. First is the Crystal Lagoon, a nearly untouched stretch of water framed by towering cliffs. A quick 40-minute stop allows plenty of time to snap photos, paddle around, or snorkel in the clear water. The lagoon is less crowded than the Blue Lagoon, making it perfect for peace and quiet.

Next up is Cominotto, the uninhabited islet that helps form the Blue Lagoon. This tiny island is a highlight for many; just seeing it from the boat is fantastic, and if you wish, you can hop off for a quick look or photo. Then, the biggest draw—the Blue Lagoon itself. Here, you’ll have about 45 minutes to relax, swim, or snorkel in waters famed for their brilliant turquoise color and soft white sands. It’s no exaggeration to say that the colors at Blue Lagoon are truly picture-postcard.

Beyond the crowds, the skipper may take you to San Niklaw Bay, a peaceful spot for a calming swim, and if time permits, Santa Marija Bay, another quiet beach tucked away and surrounded by greenery. The tour also includes a scenic drive along the cliffs, passing Elephant Rock, a natural arch resembling its name, and the Santa Marija Battery, a relic of Maltese coastal defense history.

Throughout the trip, you’ll cruise past rock formations, sea caves, and scenic spots, with plenty of opportunities for photos. The network of caves carved into the cliffs is especially dramatic, and the highlight for many is the Crystal Cave, a hidden sea cave with an almost surreal light display bouncing off its walls.

How the Tour Is Structured

The tour’s itinerary is packed but thoughtfully organized. Starting at Mgarr Harbour, you spend a brief ride to the first stop, Saint Mary’s Tower, which provides a scenic backdrop and photo opportunities. This is followed by a longer stay at the Crystal Lagoon—your best chance for swimming and relaxing—before heading to Cominotto and the Blue Lagoon.

Additional stops at quieter beaches like San Niklaw Bay and Santa Marija Bay allow for more swimming or simply enjoying the scenery. The tour ends back at Mgarr Harbour, making for a convenient, hassle-free experience.

Exactly how long you spend at each location varies, but your boat’s flexible nature means the skipper can adjust according to weather, sea conditions, and your group’s interests. Keep in mind that the tour is only three hours long, so the stops are quick but impactful.

Value and Practical Details

This private tour offers excellent value for those who want a personalized experience without the crowds. Including fuel, snorkeling gear, safety equipment, and a knowledgeable skipper, the price covers most essentials. You’ll pay for the exclusivity and flexibility—key benefits if you prefer a tailored adventure over a large group tour.

The tour is wheelchair accessible, and children over 16 are welcome, making it suitable for families with older kids or groups of friends. The boat is exclusively for your group, meaning no strangers will be onboard—perfect for privacy and ease of conversation.

What about timing? With check availability to see specific starting times, you can choose an early morning or late afternoon slot, which can impact how crowded the spots are and the lighting for photos.

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What to Bring and Tips

To make the most of your trip, pack swimwear, a towel, camera, snacks, drinks, and sunscreen. The waters are the main attraction, so comfortable swimwear is a must. A waterproof bag for your valuables is also advisable, especially if you plan to snorkel.

Since the tour is only three hours, bringing your own snacks or drinks might be helpful, especially if you have specific preferences. Most tours will have the basics covered, but bringing a little extra water and something to nibble on ensures you stay refreshed.

Authentic Feedback from Other Travelers

While some reviews highlight the stunning scenery and personalized service as major pluses, others note that the short duration means you should not expect to spend hours at each spot. One reviewer mentioned, “The views are breathtaking, and the boat was comfortable. A perfect quick escape from the crowds.” Another appreciated the quiet bays like San Niklaw, describing it as a “peaceful retreat.”

Some travelers found the Blue Lagoon crowded on larger tours but enjoyed having a private boat to visit during quieter times. The flexibility of the skipper was also praised, with one saying, “Our skipper tailored the tour to our interests, which made the experience much more special.”

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?

This private boat tour from Gozo to Comino stands out for its intimate setting, stunning vistas, and access to lesser-known spots. It’s perfect for travelers who value privacy, personalized service, and are looking for a quick yet memorable way to enjoy Malta’s waters.

If you’re traveling with family or friends over 16 and want to avoid the busy, large-group boat trips, this experience offers a relaxed, flexible alternative. It’s also great if you’re short on time but want to see some of the island’s most beautiful spots without sacrificing comfort or authenticity.

However, if you’re after a full-day adventure or want extended time at each stop, this may feel a bit rushed. Also, those with mobility issues should confirm accessibility, though the boat’s design suggests it’s suitable for wheelchair users.

In sum, for those wanting a beautiful, private, and well-organized boat experience packed with photo-worthy scenery and swimming opportunities, this tour hits many marks. It’s a fine way to create memories of Malta’s remarkable coastline without the hassle of crowded excursions.

FAQ

How long is the boat tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, providing a compact but comprehensive experience of key spots around Comino.

Where does the tour depart from?
It departs from Mgarr Harbour in Gozo, a convenient location for exploring Malta’s nearby waters.

Are the stops suitable for swimming and snorkeling?
Yes, the tour includes swim stops at the Blue Lagoon, Crystal Lagoon, and caves, with snorkeling gear provided onboard.

Is the tour private?
Absolutely. The boat is reserved exclusively for your group, ensuring privacy and a tailored experience.

What is included in the price?
Fuel, snorkeling gear, safety equipment, music system, and an experienced licensed skipper are included. The tour fee covers most essentials.

Can children participate?
Children under 16 are not suitable for this tour, but older kids and teenagers will enjoy the experience.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the experience provider notes that the tour is wheelchair accessible.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, camera, snacks, drinks, and sunscreen. It’s also wise to have a waterproof bag for valuables.

How do I choose a starting time?
Check availability for your preferred date; the tour offers flexible start times—early morning or late afternoon—depending on demand.

In summary, this private boat tour from Gozo to Comino offers a well-balanced mix of scenic beauty, flexibility, and comfort. It’s an ideal choice for those who want to escape the crowds, enjoy Malta’s jewel-like waters, and keep the experience intimate and personal.

You can check availability for your dates here: