Malta: Private Boat Cruise with Caves, Beaches & Swim Stops

Malta: Private Boat Cruise with Caves, Beaches & Swim Stops – A Detailed Review

Travelers looking to experience Malta from the water will find this private boat cruise offers a mix of scenic beauty, comfort, and authentic moments. Designed for small groups—up to seven people—it’s a fantastic way to escape the crowds and explore the Maltese Islands at your own pace. We’ve looked into what makes this experience stand out and what potential travelers should consider before booking.

Two things we particularly like about this tour are the personalized service provided by the crew—especially the knowledgeable skipper—and the chance to swim and snorkel in crystal-clear waters at secluded spots. The option to enjoy a local Maltese platter with breathtaking views is another highlight that adds flavor to the day.

One consideration worth noting is the cost. At $397 for a four-hour private experience, it’s not the cheapest option, but the value lies in exclusivity, flexibility, and the quality of the experience. This trip is best suited for families, couples, or small groups who want a relaxed, tailored day on the water rather than a large, hurried tour.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Intimate experience: Perfect for small groups seeking a private, customizable day.
• Flexible itinerary: Skipper can take you to preferred spots or trust their expertise.
• Swim and snorkel: Multiple stops in pristine waters offer chances to refresh and explore.
• Local cuisine option: Maltese platter served with stunning sea views enhances the experience.
• Comfort and safety: Includes life jackets, snorkel gear, fresh water showers, and a Bluetooth sound system.
• Value for money: Personal service and exclusive access make this a worthwhile splurge.

Exploring Malta’s Coasts and Caves

This private boat trip is a refreshing departure from crowded group tours. With just your family or friends, you can enjoy complete flexibility—choosing where to anchor, swim, or relax. The experience begins at Sea Life Cruises, where the crew welcomes you aboard a comfortable vessel, clearly prepared for a day of adventure.

The total duration is around four hours, which sounds short but feels just right given the pace and the stops. The tour includes a few speedboat transfers at the start to reach some of the most scenic spots, notably the Caves of Comino and the famous Blue Lagoon.

What Makes This Tour Special?

The real draw here is the personalized approach. Unlike large group trips, your skipper can customize stops based on your preferences or trust their judgment to show you the best sights. Many reviews highlight the skippers’ knowledge and friendliness—”Frances was a fantastic guide,” one reviewer raves—making the experience both informative and relaxed.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Start at Sea Life Cruises: Your journey begins from a central point, behind the Cirkewwa Cafe. After a quick briefing, you’ll board the boat, ready to set sail.

Speedboat transfers (two stops, each about 10 minutes): These transfers quickly get you to key locations, saving time and energy. These are not lengthy rides but are essential for accessing more remote spots.

Caves and Rock Formations: One highlight is exploring the enchanting caves and unique rock formations around Comino. The scenery here is dramatic—imagine towering limestone cliffs and intricate caves that invite exploration. Many guests mention the “incredible caves and beautiful scenery,” as well as the chance to admire the sea views that only a boat can offer.

Swim and Snorkel Stops: The Blue Lagoon is often the star attraction, renowned for crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Reviews often mention how gorgeous and pristine these waters are, and how much fun it is to float in such a peaceful environment. The tour also includes snorkel masks, fins, and noodles, making it easy for everyone to enjoy the underwater world.

Additional Stops: Depending on the skipper’s judgment and your interests, you might also visit St. Maria & St. Nikolaus Bays or other secluded lagoons, avoiding the crowds of larger tours.

Optional Maltese Platter: After some swimming, you can indulge in a local Maltese platter—featuring bigilla dip, stuffed olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and a traditional ftira—served with drinks and enjoyed while soaking in breathtaking sea views. Multiple reviews praise the delicious food and the relaxed atmosphere it creates.

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The Experience on Board

The boat itself provides a comfortable setting with features like Bluetooth sound system for your playlist, fresh water showers, and life jackets for safety. The side ladder makes getting in and out of the water easier, and the ice cooler keeps drinks cold throughout the trip.

Guests often comment on the relaxed pace and the friendly, attentive nature of the crew. As one reviewer put it, “Francis was great and looked after us so well… it was lovely to not be on one of the very overcrowded bigger boats.” This intimacy and attention to detail are what set this tour apart.

Pricing, Value, and Practicalities

At $397 for up to 7 people, this trip offers solid value for money if you’re looking for exclusivity, flexibility, and a personal guide. The cost includes the boat, skipper, snorkel gear, and the Maltese platter if selected, plus safety equipment.

However, there’s a fuel surcharge of €89 payable in cash at the end, which is important to keep in mind. Also, drinks and additional food are available for purchase, so bringing your own or planning for extra snacks could enhance your comfort.

The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, those with back or mobility issues, or people prone to motion sickness. Arriving on time is critical, as latecomers won’t be able to extend the trip.

What to Bring

• Camera to capture the stunning scenery
• Sunscreen for protection in the Maltese sun
• Beachwear and towels for swimming
• Cash for extras and the fuel fee
• Food and drinks, if you want more than what’s provided

Meeting and Ending Point

You’ll find the boat behind the Cirkewwa Cafe, and the tour concludes back at the same spot, making logistics straightforward.

Authentic Experiences and Authenticity

Reviews consistently emphasize the knowledge and friendliness of the crew. Many mention the guides’ ability to explain what you see, adding a layer of educational value to the trip. The delicious Maltese platter—a highlight for many—allows travelers to taste local flavors amid stunning surroundings, elevating the experience from just sightseeing to something more immersive.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This private boat cruise is ideal for those who value exclusivity and customization. It suits small groups or families wanting a relaxed, personal day at sea. The emphasis on swimming, snorkeling, and scenic stops makes it perfect for adventurers and water lovers. If you’re seeking a romantic escape or a memorable family outing, this tour ticks all those boxes.

However, if you’re prone to motion sickness, or traveling with very young children or mobility-impaired individuals, you might want to consider other options, as the activity involves some transfers and boat movement.

Final Thoughts

This Malta private boat cruise offers a fantastic balance of comfort, flexibility, and genuine scenic beauty. The small-group format ensures a more intimate experience, allowing you to explore Malta’s coastlines and caves without the hustle of large tours. The reviews underscore the value of having a friendly, knowledgeable skipper and the chance to swim in some of the clearest waters around.

The delicious Maltese platter and the chance to discover hidden beaches and caves make this trip a truly memorable experience. It’s a splendid choice for travelers who want to enjoy Malta’s natural beauty with a personal touch, rather than a crowded or cookie-cutter tour.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts around 4 hours, which is enough time to visit key spots, swim, and relax without feeling rushed.

What is included in the price?
The booking covers the private boat, skipper, snorkel gear, life jackets, safety equipment, water showers, and the optional Maltese platter with drinks.

Can I choose the stops or is it set?
The itinerary is flexible. Your skipper can take you to spots of your choice or recommend the best locations based on weather and sea conditions.

Is food and drink included?
If you select the option, you’ll enjoy a traditional Maltese platter. Additional drinks and food are available for purchase onboard.

Are there any age restrictions?
The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, those with back or mobility issues, and children over 70 or with motion sickness concerns.

Do I need to bring anything?
Bring a camera, sunscreen, swimwear, towels, cash for extras, and perhaps some snacks or drinks if desired.

Where do we meet?
At the dock behind the Cirkewwa Cafe, where the white and brown boat awaits.

Is the experience weather-dependent?
Yes, the skipper reserves the right to cancel or modify the itinerary due to weather, tides, or other legitimate factors.

What about the fuel surcharge?
A €89 cash fee for fuel is payable onboard at the end of the trip.

This private boat experience offers a wonderful way to see Malta’s coast in a relaxed, personalized manner. Whether swimming in the Blue Lagoon or exploring caves, you’ll come away with memories of crystal waters, stunning scenery, and a taste of local hospitality. It’s particularly suited for those wanting a more intimate, flexible day on the water—an authentic Maltese adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: