Comino Private Boat with Snorkeling and Cave Sightseeing

If you’re eyeing a day on the Maltese waters that combines comfort, adventure, and genuine local charm, the Comino Private Boat with Snorkeling and Cave Sightseeing stands out as a top choice. Priced at around $494 for a group of up to 15 people, this private tour promises an intimate experience on a traditional Luzzu boat, with roughly four hours of exploring the crystal waters, caves, and beaches of Comino. Its small-group focus and flexibility offer a more relaxed, personalized alternative to crowded boat tours, making it perfect for families, friends, or anyone craving authenticity without sacrificing comfort.

Two features particularly stand out. First, the guides’ local knowledge and friendly service shine through in reviews—Albert, the skipper, gets frequent shout-outs for making the trip memorable and for showing hidden gems and caves. Second, the diverse stops—from the iconic Blue Lagoon to Santa Maria caves—offer a mix of swimming, snorkeling, and scenic exploration that keeps the experience lively and varied. The ability to swim through caves, relax on secluded beaches, or even enjoy a BBQ onboard (upon request) makes this tour highly customizable.

However, one consideration is the weather dependency—bad weather cancels the trip, and your full refund hinges on weather-related issues. Also, since the tour isn’t a guided tour of multiple islands or landmarks, if you prefer a more structured sightseeing schedule with a larger group or official tours, this might feel a bit laid-back. Still, for travelers seeking quality time on the water with expert, friendly hosts, this private cruise hits the mark.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: You’re on a boat just for your group, which means more flexibility and comfort.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable skippers like Albert really make the experience special, sharing local insights and hidden spots.
• Iconic Stops: From Blue Lagoon to Santa Maria caves, you’ll see Malta’s most photogenic and adventurous spots.
• Snorkeling & Swimming: Plenty of opportunities to cool off, including swimming through caves and relaxing on sandy beaches.
• Food & Drinks: An onboard bar offers soft drinks, alcohol, snacks, and ice creams—some reviews mention the option for a BBQ.
• Weather Sensitivity: The tour is weather-dependent; poor weather cancels, but full refunds are offered if canceled due to conditions.

In-Depth Review of the Comino Private Boat Experience

If you’re looking for a relaxed but adventure-filled way to spend your Malta day, this private boat tour around Comino offers just that. The fact that it’s a private experience means you won’t be sharing the boat with strangers—just your group—allowing for a more flexible pace and personalized interaction with your guides.

The Boat and Its Atmosphere

The vessel used is a traditional 12-meter Luzzu boat, famous for its colorful design, long associated with Malta’s fishing culture. These boats aren’t just pretty—they tie you to local tradition, giving your trip a genuine Maltese flavor. Many reviews highlight how the guides treat the boat like it’s their own, creating a welcoming, friendly environment. The boat’s size and traditional style ensure a comfortable ride, and the onboard bar, stocked with soft drinks, alcohol, snacks, and ice creams, keeps everyone refreshed without the need to carry extra gear.

The Itinerary in Detail

The tour kicks off at Blue Lagoon, one of Malta’s most photographed and celebrated beaches. Expect to see that vivid, clear water ideal for swimming and snorkeling. The highlight here is the natural cave, which you can swim through—an activity that many reviews praise for being a fun, memorable part of the trip. Vendors nearby serve quick bites and drinks, so you can refuel after your swim. If you’re into watersports, Blue Lagoon is perfect for paddleboarding or just relaxing on the sandy beach.

Next, you’ll head to San Niklaw Bay, a quieter alternative to the bustling Blue Lagoon. Reviewers love its peaceful atmosphere—ideal for families with young children or anyone wanting a more laid-back spot to swim and relax. It’s another sandy beach, perfect for soaking up the sun or wading into the water.

The Santa Maria Caves are a standout highlight. Visiting these caves is more than just a photo opportunity—they’re an adventure. As you approach, the guide will take you into the caves’ interior, where you can swim in the pond inside. Proper swimmers and divers might even try passing under the cave’s water or diving beneath it. One reviewer mentions that this is where parts of the film Count of Monte Cristo were filmed, adding a cinematic touch to the experience. The guide’s local knowledge makes navigating the caves safe and enjoyable.

On the northern tip, you’ll see the Elephant’s Head, a naturally formed rock shape that adds a quirky, scenic element to the cruise. It’s a great photo op and a reminder of how nature creates remarkable shapes.

The tour wraps up at the Crystal Lagoon, just behind the Blue Lagoon but offering a more secluded vibe. The lagoon features a small sandy beach and a special cave beneath Saint Mary’s tower. Swimming through the cave or relaxing on its sandy end makes for a fantastic conclusion to your day on the water. The lagoon is also a popular spot for cliff jumping, adding a dose of adrenaline for the brave.

The Experience & What You’ll Love

Most reviews emphasize the guides’ friendliness and knowledge—Albert and Carlo, for instance, are praised for their accommodating attitude and local insights. Many guests note how the guides go out of their way to point out hidden caves, offer swimming tips, and ensure everyone is comfortable. The flexible stops mean you can spend as much time as you want at each site, making the trip feel tailored to your preferences.

The snorkeling opportunities at Blue Lagoon and the caves are outstanding. Many reviewers mention how the water clarity allows for good underwater views, and the chance to swim through caves makes the trip adventurous without being overly technical or intimidating.

The onboard bar and optional BBQ add to the sense of indulgence. Though not included in the base price, some guests have enjoyed the option of a BBQ, which turns a sightseeing trip into a full dining experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for those who value personalized service and want to avoid the crowds typical of standard tours. It’s well-suited for friends, families, or couples wanting a more intimate experience. If you enjoy snorkeling, swimming, or exploring caves, you’ll find plenty of opportunities here. The focus on comfort, local knowledge, and flexibility makes it ideal for travelers who want to set their own pace and see a variety of sights without rushing.

Considerations

The main thing to keep in mind is weather—if the seas are rough or the day’s conditions poor, the trip may be canceled, and a full refund will be offered. It’s also worth noting that this is a private tour, so it’s less about structured narration and more about guided exploration. If you’re looking for a busier, more guided sightseeing experience, a larger group tour might suit you better.

Final Thoughts

The Comino Private Boat with Snorkeling and Cave Sightseeing offers a fantastic way to experience Malta’s coastal beauty without the crowds and with a personal touch. Expect warm, knowledgeable guides, stunning scenery, and plenty of time to enjoy swimming and exploring caves. The ability to customize stops, combined with authentic surroundings and excellent reviews, makes this a worthwhile pick for travelers craving an authentic, relaxed, and memorable day on the water.

This tour provides a rare chance to own your day—literally—on a traditional Maltese Luzzu, making it feel more like exploring with local friends than just another tourist outing. Whether you’re into snorkeling, photography, or simply soaking up the sun, this experience offers good value in a stunning setting, especially if you appreciate a small-group vibe and local charm.

FAQ

Is this a private tour?
Yes, it’s exclusively for your group—up to 15 people—so you won’t be sharing the boat with strangers.

What’s included in the price?
The base price covers the boat, guides, snorkel spots, caves, and the stops mentioned. Drinks and snacks are available onboard, and a BBQ can be arranged upon request (extra cost).

How long is the trip?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, giving ample time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Can I swim inside the caves?
Yes, you can swim in the pond inside Santa Maria caves, and the guide will help you navigate. Advanced divers can consider passing under the cave’s water entrance.

What happens in bad weather?
The trip is weather-dependent. If the weather is poor, the trip will be canceled, and you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is it suitable for children?
Absolutely. Many reviewers mention that San Niklaw Bay is perfect for families with young children, thanks to its calm waters and sandy beaches.