Guided Kayak Tour in St Paul’s Island

Introducing the Guided Kayak Tour in St Paul’s Island
Imagine paddling along Malta’s rugged coastline, exploring secret caves and stopping on a tiny island steeped in history. This guided kayak adventure offers an approachable way to see some of the island’s most scenic spots. It’s perfect for those who want to combine light exercise with the chance to enjoy Malta’s crystal-clear waters, without needing advanced kayaking skills.

What I love about this experience is how it balances fun and comfort. First, the beginner-friendly aspect means you won’t need to be an experienced paddler to enjoy it. The guides, specifically, are attentive and will ensure your paddle, safety, and pace match your ability. Second, I appreciate the thoughtful stops—especially the time on St Paul’s Island, which offers a calming retreat with stunning views and historical landmarks like the 1845 Cross and a statue of St Paul. Plus, the chance to snorkel or simply relax in the water makes this trip stand out.

One possible consideration is the physical requirement: while the tour is suitable for most, it does involve paddling about 4-5 km over roughly 2.5 hours. If you’re not comfortable swimming or have mobility issues, this might be a bit more demanding. Also, be prepared to get your feet wet and bring water and sun protection—water isn’t available at the bay, and Malta’s sun can be fierce.

This tour offers value in its combination of engaging exploration, the chance to see beautiful natural features like the colorful coral in the caves, and the relaxed pace that makes it accessible for many. With just a modest price of around $50.90 per person, it’s a memorable way to experience Malta’s coastline up close with expert guidance.

Key points / Takeaways

• Beginner-friendly: The tour is designed for those new to kayaking, with a basic lesson provided before setting out.
• Rich scenery: Expect stunning blue waters, caves with soft and purple coral, and remnants of WWII history, making each stop visually captivating.
• Secluded island stop: St Paul’s Island offers a peaceful break, with options to swim or explore the land, featuring historical landmarks and beautiful views.
• Experienced guides: Guides are attentive and will adjust the pace, ensuring everyone feels comfortable and safe while learning about the area.
• Flexible itinerary: While the main plan is to visit St Paul’s Island, weather conditions may lead to alternative routes, like exploring nearby bays and coasts.
• Good value: At approximately $50.90, the experience includes all equipment, a scenic route, and insightful commentary, making it a cost-effective way to explore Malta’s coast.

Exploring Malta’s Coastline by Kayak

Paddling along Malta’s coastline gives you an intimate view of its dramatic cliffs, hidden caves, and azure waters. I love the way this trip combines the physicality of kayaking with moments of tranquility, especially when you pause on St Paul’s Island. The starting point at Mistra Bay is easy to reach and offers a lovely natural setting—perfect for those who enjoy a relaxed, scenic beginning.

The tour begins with a straightforward kayak lesson, which is reassuring for newcomers. The guides, who seem committed to a friendly, inclusive atmosphere, will calibrate the group’s pace, so don’t worry if you’re not a seasoned paddler. The group usually travels at a leisurely speed, with plenty of stops to explore caves and take photos. As Camilla_V mentioned in her review, it’s “well organized” and “nice to do some exercise,” which is a gentle reminder that you’re getting a good workout without feeling rushed.

As you paddle from Mistra Bay to Rdum Il-Biez, you’ll pass by beautiful blue waters and encounter the famous Tal-Mignuna cave. The highlight here is not just the cave’s vertical walls but also the colorful coral—purple at the waterline and bright orange a few centimeters deeper. These species only thrive in unpolluted waters, which is a testament to Malta’s clean, protected coastal areas. I love the fact that you can get so close to marine life, including friendly pigeons that nest inside the cave.

Discovering the Hidden Gems of Rdum Il-Biez and the Caves

The caves along this coast are more than just scenic backdrops. The vertical Tal-Mignuna cave, with its resident pigeons, makes for fantastic photo opportunities. The coral species add an extra layer of beauty and rarity, giving you a glimpse of Malta’s marine biodiversity.

One of the best aspects of this experience is how flexible it is. Depending on weather and group energy levels, the guides might choose to skip St Paul’s Island and instead paddle along the coast, exploring tiny bays like Mgiebah and Selmun. Diane_M pointed out that “the weather also helped” make the trip especially enjoyable, so timing your tour during good weather means you’ll have calmer waters and clearer views.

The Peaceful St Paul’s Island Stop

The highlight for many is the 25-minute stop on St Paul’s Island. You’ll walk to the top and enjoy sweeping views of the cliffs and saltpans below. The island is also a nature reserve, home to protected birds, making it a quiet sanctuary amid your adventure. The large statue of St Paul and the 1845 Cross are photogenic landmarks, offering a taste of Malta’s religious and cultural history.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can take a quick swim in the crystal-clear waters—an option that’s unsupervised, so you should be comfortable swimming and confident in your abilities. For others, simply relaxing and soaking in the views is equally rewarding. The reviews note that the island is “peaceful,” and the scenery makes it worth every paddle stroke.

Alternative Route and Weather Considerations

Occasionally, due to weather conditions, the tour reroutes to explore other secluded bays like Imieba Bay or the coastlines near Mgiebah. These alternate routes still offer beautiful scenery and a chance to see Malta’s lesser-known spots. Watching the sunset from your kayak, as some groups do, adds a special touch to the experience, especially if you’re lucky with weather.

Weather plays an important role. On a clear day, the waters are calm, and your views are crystal sharp. However, if bad weather hits, the guides may need to change plans or cancel. The good news is they’re flexible and prioritize safety, offering a full refund or alternative dates if needed.

Practical Details and Who Should Book

The tour starts at Margo’s Mistra Bay, a convenient meeting point with easy access from public transportation. It lasts about 2.5 hours, including paddling, exploring caves, and the island stop. With a maximum of 23 travelers, the group stays manageable, and guides like those from Kayak Tours Malta are knowledgeable and friendly.

You’ll need to bring your own water—about 2 liters per person—and wear shoes that can get wet. Sun protection is a must, especially since Malta’s sun can be relentless. It’s recommended to have moderate physical fitness, as paddling for 2 hours requires stamina, and you should be comfortable swimming if you want to take advantage of the water swims.

This experience suits active travelers with a sense of adventure, those curious about marine life, and anyone wanting a unique perspective of Malta’s coast. It’s also great for travelers who prefer small-group, guided activities over large, crowded tours.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

If you’re looking for a relaxed, scenic, and engaging way to see Malta’s coastline, this kayak tour is a smart choice. It offers a perfect mix of gentle physical activity, natural beauty, and cultural landmarks—all with the assurance of expert guides who keep safety and fun front and center. The stops at caves and St Paul’s Island are memorable, providing ample photo opportunities and peaceful moments away from crowds.

The price point is reasonable for what’s included—guidance, equipment, and access to Malta’s hidden coastal gems. If you’re prepared for a moderate level of physical activity and can handle a few water-based adventures, this tour will leave you with wonderful memories of Malta’s stunning waters and rugged coastline.

For those who love nature, history, and a bit of adventure, this trip is a worthwhile addition to your Malta itinerary. It’s especially suited for active travelers, families with older children, and anyone eager to see a different side of the island—beyond the more common sightseeing spots.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour is designed to be beginner-friendly, with a basic kayak lesson included. Guides will adjust the pace to suit the group’s abilities.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, including paddling, exploring caves, and the stop on St Paul’s Island.

What should I bring?
You should bring 2 liters of water, sun protection, and shoes you don’t mind getting wet. Water isn’t available at the bay, so come prepared.

Can I swim during the tour?
Yes, you can swim during the land break on St Paul’s Island or at other stops. Swimming is optional but encouraged if you’re comfortable in water.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If conditions are poor, it may be canceled or rerouted. In such cases, you can reschedule or receive a full refund.

Is the tour family-friendly?
Youth aged 12-17 need to be accompanied by two adults. The physical activity level is moderate, suitable for most active teens and adults.

How many people are in each group?
Maximum group size is 23 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience and plenty of space on the water.

What happens if I can’t share a kayak?
Participants might share double-seater kayaks, but single kayaks are available for those who prefer privacy or have specific needs.

Do I need to speak English?
Yes, being able to communicate in English is required for participation, as guides provide instructions and commentary in English.

In the end, this guided kayak tour around St Paul’s Island offers a wonderful combination of natural beauty, history, and light adventure. It’s a thoughtful way to explore Malta from a different perspective, especially if you appreciate quiet coves, scenic caves, and a relaxed pace.