Full Day Charter on a Private Skippered Sailing Yacht

A Private Maltese Sailing Day: Exploring in Style and Comfort

Our review of this full-day private sailing experience on Malta’s waters highlights a trip that combines relaxed luxury with authentic coastal exploration. Offered by Sailing Charters Malta Ltd., this 9-hour voyage takes you from Kalkara Marina straight into some of the most breathtaking spots around Malta, Comino, and Gozo — all tailored to your group’s interests. What really sets this apart is the ability to customize your day, from swimming and snorkeling to enjoying fresh food prepared right onboard.

Among the many things I appreciate about this outing are the personalized service by a knowledgeable skipper who guides you through Malta’s scenic coastline and the chance to access secluded sea caves and lagoons only reachable by boat. Another highlight is the flexibility to include a freshly cooked barbecue meal along with drinks and snacks, elevating the experience from simple sightseeing to a true culinary outing on the water.

One potential consideration is the price point of $681 for up to four people, which might seem steep for some, but when you factor in the inclusions—fuel, snorkeling gear, paddleboards, and the customizable itinerary—the value becomes quite clear. Keep in mind that food and drinks are optional extras, so you might want to plan on bringing your own provisions if you prefer a fully tailored experience.

This trip offers a fantastic balance of guided expertise, scenic discovery, and hands-on activities. It’s ideal for small groups or families seeking a private escape with maximum flexibility and comfort.

Key points / Takeaways

• Personalized Experience: The trip is fully customizable, allowing you to choose stops like Blue Lagoon or hidden caves — perfect for those who want a tailored day.
• Inclusive Gear: Snorkelling equipment and paddleboards are included, giving you options to explore beneath the water or on the surface at your own pace.
• Luxury with Flexibility: The onboard BBQ and drinks can be included or you can bring your own provisions, making the experience adaptable to your preferences.
• Expert Skipper: The guide, Andreas, and others like him, are praised for their professionalism and friendliness, making navigation and local insights a real plus.
• Unique Access: Many stops, such as sea caves and secluded lagoons, are only reachable by boat, offering a sense of discovery beyond typical land-based tours.
• Ideal for Small Groups: With only 4 passengers per boat, you’ll enjoy an intimate, stress-free day with plenty of personal attention.

Exploring Malta by Yacht: An Authentic Coastal Voyage

When I think about Malta, I picture rugged coastlines, crystal-clear waters, and small hidden coves. This private sailing trip promises a chance to experience all those elements without the crowds often associated with popular sites like the Blue Lagoon. Starting at the Kalkara Marina in Valletta, you’ll be greeted and introduced to your skipper, who will be your guide for the day. The small group size ensures everyone can ask questions and get a real feel for the local scenery.

From Kalkara, the voyage moves northward, passing the stunning Grand Harbour with its fortress walls and historic ships. The tour includes multiple stops, starting with scenic views of Valletta’s coastline and St Paul’s Island — both picturesque and historically intriguing. The skipper, often a friendly and knowledgeable guide, will share insights into the area’s history, natural features, and secret spots you’d never find on foot.

The itinerary continues with stops at places like Selmun Peninsula, Armier Bay, and San Niklaw Bay. These locations give you plenty of opportunities to swim and snorkel in clear, tranquil waters. The inclusion of snorkelling gear and paddleboards means you can stay active and explore underwater caves and marine life at your own pace. Many reviewers, like Katharina, noted how well-organized and smooth the trip was, mentioning the “nice contact with Andreas” and how they’d happily do it again.

One of the tour’s standout features is the chance to visit the famous Blue Lagoon and Crystal Lagoon. These are the showstoppers for many visitors, offering perfect spots for swimming and relaxing. The Blue Lagoon, in particular, has earned its reputation as a postcard-perfect location with its shallow, turquoise waters. The guided aspect ensures you get the best viewing angles and interesting local tips.

The latter part of the day includes visits to impressive sea caves, such as the Santa Maria Caves and Elephant Rock, which are accessible only by boat. These formations are visually stunning, with dramatic cliffs and hidden grottoes that add an adventurous element to the trip. Another highlight is the “hidden gem” stop — a lesser-known spot that keeps the trip feeling exclusive.

The trip concludes back at Kalkara Marina, giving you a relaxed, full-circle experience. The ability to include a freshly cooked BBQ meal, prepared right onboard by the skipper, elevates the outing from a sightseeing tour to a true culinary indulgence. You can opt for vegetarian or vegan options, and drinks or snacks are available to add on.

What I love about this experience

The flexibility to customize your itinerary makes this a standout. Whether you want to spend more time swimming, exploring caves, or relaxing with a drink, the skipper’s knowledge and willingness to tailor the day enhance the value.

The access to secluded spots only possible by boat is another major plus. These hidden lagoons and caves offer a sense of discovery and privacy, perfect for unwinding without the hustle of larger, crowded tours.

Considerations for travelers

While the experience is largely flexible and private, the price of $681 for a group of four might seem high if you’re traveling solo or as a couple looking for a more budget-friendly option. However, for the shared cost, you get a private, tailored day with food, gear, and expert guidance included. You’ll also want to consider bringing your own food and drinks if you prefer a fully personalized meal experience, as they aren’t included in the base price.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Starting at Kalkara Marina: This is a quiet, convenient location just outside Valletta, making it easy for most travelers to reach. The marina has enough facilities and a relaxed vibe perfect for setting off on a day-long adventure.

Grand Harbour & Valletta: The tour’s first scenic viewing area offers a chance to absorb Malta’s maritime history from the water. You’ll be treated to views of historic forts, naval ships, and the grand architecture of the capital.

St Paul’s Island: A small, remote island with a storied past, this stop offers both scenic beauty and a chance to explore a quiet island setting. The boat often sails by or stops for brief visits here, providing a peaceful break from the crowds.

Selmun Peninsula & Armier Bay: These more secluded areas are perfect for relaxing, swimming, and appreciating Malta’s rugged coastline. You can also enjoy the peaceful surroundings without the noise of land-based travelers.

Crystal Lagoon & Blue Lagoon: The star attractions. Expect crystal-clear waters, soft sandy bottoms, and ample space for swimming or trying out snorkelling gear. Many reviews praise these stops for their stunning beauty and tranquility.

San Niklaw Bay & Santa Maria Caves: The caves and bays here are mesmerizing, with dramatic cliffs and hidden grottoes. The Santa Maria Caves are a particular favorite for their impressive formations.

Elephant Rock & Hidden Gem: These unique geological formations provide memorable photo opportunities and a sense of adventure. The “hidden gem” stop can be a private cove or secluded area only accessible by boat.

Return to Kalkara Marina: After a full day of exploration, the journey back offers reflection time and the chance to enjoy the scenic coastline one last time.

Who This Tour Suits Best

This private sailing trip appeals most to small groups, families, or couples wanting a flexible, intimate experience that combines sightseeing with active options like swimming and paddleboarding. If you appreciate personalized service, expert guides, and access to exclusive spots, this tour is a strong choice. It’s ideal for travelers who enjoy a relaxed pace, scenic beauty, and a touch of adventure.

While the price might seem high for some, the inclusions—private guide, snorkeling gear, paddleboards, and the option for a freshly cooked BBQ—make it competitive and worthwhile, especially for those seeking a special day on the water. Since it’s not suitable for wheelchair users, it’s best for active, able-bodied travelers comfortable with on-deck movement.

FAQ

How long is the tour? The trip lasts approximately 9 hours, providing ample time to explore multiple stops at a relaxed pace.

What’s included in the price? The cost covers all taxes, fuel, the skipper/guide, bottled water, snorkelling equipment, and two paddleboards. Food and drinks are optional extras.

Do I need to bring my own food? You can bring your own provisions if you prefer, or opt to include a freshly cooked BBQ onboard, which can be pre-ordered with your booking.

Is this experience suitable for families? Yes, especially for small groups and families comfortable with being on a boat all day. Keep in mind it’s not suitable for wheelchair users.

Can I customize my stops? Absolutely. The tour is designed to be flexible, allowing you to choose which lagoons, caves, and bays to visit.

What about the group size? It’s a private experience for your group of up to 4 people, ensuring personalized attention and a comfortable environment.

Is there any cancellation policy? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it a relatively risk-free booking.

Can I do this tour if I don’t speak English? The tour is conducted in English, so some understanding is helpful for engaging with your guide.

Final Thoughts

This private sailing trip around Malta hits a sweet spot for those who want a customized, intimate day on the water. The combination of scenic beauty, active options, and knowledgeable guides creates an experience that’s both relaxing and memorable. The ability to explore hidden caves, lagoons, and beaches adds a layer of exclusivity that many land-based tours simply can’t match.

If you’re looking for a flexible, private way to see Malta’s coastline and enjoy some quality time in pristine waters, this trip offers excellent value — especially if you’re traveling with friends or family who can split the cost. The optional BBQ and drinks make it feel like a true celebration of Malta’s marine wonders, all with the comfort of a private skipper at your side.

This experience is best suited for those who cherish personalized adventures and are happy to spend a day on a boat in exchange for seeing Malta’s best-kept secrets and enjoying relaxed, guided exploration. It’s a fine choice for a special occasion or simply to treat yourself to a memorable day on the Mediterranean.

Note: Always check availability and booking details in advance, as schedules can vary. And don’t forget to pack sun protection, swimwear, and a camera to capture those special moments.