Boat Charters Blue lagoon, Crystal Lagoon, Comino, Malta

Exploring Malta by boat offers a unique chance to see some of the island’s most beautiful spots away from crowded beaches and busy tour boats. This private boat charter, which typically lasts around 3.5 hours, is tailored for up to 11 people, making it an intimate way to discover the Blue Lagoon, Crystal Lagoon, and several caves and bays around Comino and Gozo. Price-wise, at about $295 per group, it’s a fair investment when you consider the personalized experience, private guide, and the chance to beat the crowds—something many reviews highlight as a major plus. The trip is fully customizable, led by a knowledgeable local skipper with a wealth of experience in local history and culture, which adds an enriching layer for those interested.

Two aspects stand out in reviews: First, the small vessel makes a difference. When you see the large, crowded boats trying to cram in travelers, the comfort and space of this private boat truly shine. As Caroline noted, she appreciated “our smaller vessel when we saw how big and crammed some of the other tourist boats were,” emphasizing how much more relaxed and personal the experience feels. Second, the ability to enjoy key stops like the Blue Lagoon and caves without the typical hustle and bustle is a real highlight. Melissa praised her guide Nicholas, saying, “everything ran smoothly,” and that the boat was “very clean” and spacious—crucial considerations for comfort and safety.

A possible consideration is the weather dependency. Since this is an outdoor experience on the water, poor weather could result in cancellations or adjustments. The company offers full refunds if the trip is canceled due to bad weather, but it’s worth keeping an eye on the forecast. Also, some travelers might find the price of €45 for taxi transfers to the boat a little extra, especially if traveling solo or in a small group.

Key Points

Personalized private experience – You’ll enjoy a smaller, more relaxed trip than the typical crowded tour boats.
Expert local skipper – Knowledgeable guides enrich your trip with insights into Malta’s history and spots seen in movies like The Count of Monte Cristo.
Flexible itinerary – Visits to Blue Lagoon, caves, and scenic bays offer both adventure and relaxing spots.
Excellent value for the price – Private, customizable, and includes amenities like snorkels and water.
Weather considerations – Good weather is essential; cancellations are fully refundable.
Ideal for families and adventure seekers – Suitable for most travelers, including kids, with plenty of opportunities for swimming and snorkeling.

In-Depth Review of the Experience

This boat tour in Malta is a well-curated way to explore the island’s scenic coastlines, especially if you like a mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural highlights. Priced at around $295 per group, the experience includes skipper services, fuel, boat facilities (shower, toilet), drinking water, ice cooler, and snorkel gear. It’s a package designed for comfort, convenience, and local insights, making it a strong choice for those who want a more exclusive, tailored trip rather than a big-group excursion.

Booking in advance—about 16 days ahead on average— is recommended since this trip is quite popular and fully private, giving you the flexibility to choose your timing and stops. The mobile ticket means you can plan your day seamlessly, and the full cancellation policy allows peace of mind if weather or schedules change.

Detailed Itinerary and What You Can Expect

Stop 1: Blue Lagoon
The trip kicks off at the famous Blue Lagoon, renowned for its incredibly clear, turquoise waters. This spot is ideal for swimming, relaxing on the boat, or simply soaking up the scenery. Many reviewers—like Caroline—mention how perfect it is to escape the crowds by enjoying the lagoon from the comfort of your private boat. You’ll spend about 45 minutes here—enough time to dip in the water, take photos, or just unwind.

Stop 2: Crystal Lagoon
Next, you’ll head to Crystal Lagoon, a favorite for snorkeling and cliff diving. The presence of caves like the Lovers Cave and Popeye’s Arch makes this a more adventurous stop. Expect about 30 minutes here, offering plenty of opportunities to explore the underwater world and take in the views. Visitors like Melissa enjoyed the incredible caves and scenery, which are more accessible in this less-crowded setting.

Passing St. Mary’s Tower
On the way, your skipper will pass by St. Mary’s Tower—a 17th-century fortification built by the Knights of St John, famous from the movie The Count of Monte Cristo. It’s a quick photo stop and a chance to appreciate Malta’s military history.

Stop 3: Saint Mary’s Battery
The next stop is near the Saint Mary’s Battery, an early-18th-century defensive structure. Underneath it lies a wonderful swimming spot with lovely scenery, perfect for relaxing or cooling off. This stop is about 30 minutes long, giving you time to take in the views and jump into the clear water.

Pass by Elephant Head Rock
One of the more scenic landmarks, Elephant Head Rock, is also featured in The Count of Monte Cristo. It’s a striking natural formation that adds a touch of movie magic to your journey.

Stop 4: Santa Maria Caves
Entering the Santa Maria Caves is a highlight—a series of five caves on the north of the island. At around 10 minutes, this is a brief but memorable visit, with the caves offering both photo ops and a mystical atmosphere.

Stop 5: Santa Maria Bay
A picturesque sandy beach, Santa Maria Bay is great for swimming and snorkeling. Expect about 30 minutes here, perfect for soaking up the sun or exploring marine life.

Stop 6: San Niklaw Bay
The last stop on Comino is San Niklaw Bay—a peaceful and pristine spot with crystal-clear waters and tranquil surroundings. This gives you a perfect environment to relax before heading back.

Final stop: Alfa Rock
The last highlight is Alfa Rock on the east side of Gozo. Known for breathtaking scenery and clear waters, it’s another spot ideal for swimming, snorkeling, or just marveling at the natural beauty for about 30 minutes.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The small, private boat makes a huge difference—it feels more personal and less rushed. Many travelers, especially those who hate the crowds, find this a much more enjoyable way to explore Malta’s coast. The expert guide adds value by sharing local stories and insights, turning a scenic cruise into an educational experience. Plus, the ability to customize stops means you can skip or linger at certain places based on your interests.

The amenities like snorkel gear, water, and a clean boat with toilet facilities make the trip comfortable. As Melissa pointed out, her guide Nicholas was “very nice and helpful,” which enhanced her overall experience. The safety and comfort paired with stunning scenery make this tour excellent for families, couples, or small groups seeking a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation.

Who is This Best For?

This experience suits travelers who value personalized service, want to see key sights like Blue Lagoon and caves without the crush of big tour boats, and enjoy snorkeling or swimming in gorgeous waters. It’s ideal for families or groups of friends looking for a flexible, memorable day on the water. If you’re a solo traveler or a couple, the private aspect and tailored itinerary provide an exclusive feel that larger tours can’t match.

Cost and Value Analysis

At $295 for up to 11 people, the price splits nicely among a small group, making it affordable per person—especially considering the amenities, guide, and private experience. When compared to larger, impersonal tours, the value is clear: you get more space, custom stops, and a knowledgeable local guide.

Practical Tips

• Book well in advance, especially in peak seasons.
• Opt for an early start to avoid crowds at popular spots.
• Consider the weather forecast—bad weather could lead to cancellations or rescheduling.
• Budget an extra €45 for taxi transfers if needed, as these are not included.
• Bring your snorkeling gear, towel, and sunscreen for comfort and safety.
• Check the itinerary and discuss any special interests or time constraints with your guide beforehand.

FAQs

How far in advance should I book?
It’s advisable to book about 2 weeks ahead, as this tour is quite popular and often booked 16 days in advance.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers fuel, skipper services, use of boat facilities (shower, toilet), drinking water, ice cooler, snorkel gear, and an English/Italian tour guide.

Are meals or drinks included?
No, but the boat supplies water and ice; you can bring your own snacks and drinks.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, full refunds are available if the experience is canceled due to poor weather. The company also offers the chance to reschedule.

Is this suitable for children?
Yes, the trip is recommended for families, and kids can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and exploring caves.

Does the tour run in all seasons?
It mostly depends on good weather; cancellations due to weather are fully refunded.

Are private transportation options available?
Taxi services can be arranged for an additional fee of €45, but transportation to the marina is not included.

How long is the overall tour?
The trip lasts approximately 3 hours 30 minutes, with various stops and activities along the way.

What do I need to bring?
Bring swimwear, towels, sunscreen, sunglasses, and possibly some snacks or drinks if desired.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a more intimate, flexible, and scenic way to discover Malta’s coastline, this private boat tour hits all the right notes. It’s an excellent choice for those who want to avoid the crowds, enjoy personalized service, and spend quality time exploring the famed Blue Lagoon, caves, and bays. The combination of stunning scenery, knowledgeable guidance, and a relaxed pace makes it a standout experience.

This trip is especially suited for families, couples, or small groups seeking a memorable day on the water that balances adventure, comfort, and discovery. It’s a good value when considering the private nature of the experience, amenities included, and the opportunity to craft your perfect Maltese coastal adventure.

Whether you’re looking to snorkel in crystal clear waters, explore caves, or just soak up the views with a glass of water, this tour offers a well-rounded, high-quality way to see Malta from the sea.