Comino: private charter to Crystal & Blue lagoon & Caves

Exploring Comino by Boat: A Guide to the Island’s Hidden Gems

A private boat tour around Comino offers a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and stunning scenery. This three-hour journey takes you to the island’s most famous spots—the Blue Lagoon, Crystal Lagoon, and a series of breathtaking caves—paired with opportunities to snorkel, swim, and take in Malta’s rugged coastlines. The experience is designed for those who want a flexible, intimate way to explore without the crowds and with the privacy of your own group.

What I appreciate most about this tour is how it balances guided discovery and personal leisure. The knowledgeable skippers—often praised by travelers for their friendliness and expertise—make the experience smooth and engaging. Plus, the inclusion of amenities like snorkeling masks, paddleboards, and a bar onboard adds real value, making the trip not just scenic but also fun and practical.

One possible consideration is that the Blue Lagoon can get crowded, especially in peak season. While this isn’t necessarily a flaw, it’s something to keep in mind if you’re seeking total tranquility; visiting early or later in the day might improve your experience. Plus, since this is a private group tour, it’s flexible to your preferences but requires booking in advance, which is worth noting for planning.

This boat trip feels like a well-rounded way to explore Comino’s highlights without the hassle of large tour groups or crowded public ferries. Whether you’re a snorkeler, photographer, or just someone craving a scenic day on the water, it offers a memorable slice of Malta’s coastline.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Private and customizable: You can tailor your experience, with the boat accommodating up to 20 people, making it ideal for families, friends, or couples.
• Expert guides: The skippers are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, adding depth to your understanding of the sights.
• Snorkeling and water activities: Masks, paddleboards, and fishing gear are included, making it easy to enjoy the underwater world and water sports.
• Multiple scenic stops: From the famous Blue Lagoon to hidden caves, each location offers unique photo opportunities and fun swimming spots.
• Efficient itinerary: The tour hits all the highlights in just three hours, balancing sightseeing with relaxation.
• Access via public transport: Meeting points at Cirkewwa or Mgarr are reachable by bus or ferry, making it a flexible choice for travelers staying in Valletta or Gozo.

Navigating Comino: A Scenic and Practical Journey

The tour begins at Pearl Lagoon Boat Charters, with convenient meeting points at Cirkewwa or Mgarr. If you’re staying in Valletta, catching the 45-minute ferry to Mgarr makes logistics straightforward. The boat itself is comfortable, with a capacity of up to 40 passengers, but the tour is tailored as a private group, which means fewer strangers and more personalized attention.

The crew typically includes guides who speak English and Italian, ensuring clear communication. The trip’s duration—around 3 hours—means you’ll see a lot without feeling rushed. The price of $329 per group (up to 20 people) offers good value considering the inclusions: fuel, snorkeling gear, paddleboards, a restroom, and a bar. Plus, the ability to cancel up to 24 hours in advance provides peace of mind.

Crystal Lagoon: The Perfect Introduction

Your first stop is the Crystal Lagoon, famous for its two beautiful coves. Here, the calm, clear waters are ideal for snorkeling—a favorite feature according to many travelers—where you might glimpse a military wreck and vibrant sea-life. The provided masks make it easy for beginners to enjoy the underwater scenery, and the shallow waters are safe for children or less confident swimmers.

This spot is also a photographer’s dream, with the turquoise waters contrasting sharply against the rugged coastline. Expect some sightseeing as you cruise along the coast, with the guide pointing out interesting rock formations and scenic views.

Tip: Take your time here—it’s a peaceful spot where you can truly relax in nature’s quiet embrace.

Blue Lagoon: Malta’s Tropical-Clear Water Treasure

Next is the famous Blue Lagoon, often crowded but undeniably stunning. Many travelers describe it as a perfect place for relaxing in crystal waters. Although it’s popular, the tour allows enough time for a swim, some photos, and soaking up the sun. Despite the crowds, the brilliant blue hue of the lagoon remains breathtaking.

For some, the crowd can be a drawback—if you’re seeking solitude, consider visiting early or late in the day. Still, being in a private boat means you can avoid the main crowds by choosing the best spots on the water or at quieter times.

You’ll also pass by San Niklaw Bay and Santa Marija Bay, which tend to be less crowded but equally appealing for swimming and snorkeling, offering a more relaxed alternative to the Blue Lagoon.

Exploring Comino’s Caves and Rugged Coastline

After the popular beaches, the tour heads north to the natural caves embedded in high cliffs, a highlight for many. If weather conditions are right, you might even swim into one of these caves, an experience that offers a sense of adventure and awe. The caves are dramatic, with high walls and interesting rock formations that make for compelling photos and memories.

The boat then navigates around the rugged coastline, where you’ll see natural windows and rock formations like Elephant Rock—another favorite photo stop. The scenery here is less about beaches and more about rugged natural artistry, perfect for those who appreciate Malta’s more untouched landscapes.

The Experience and Its Value

This tour offers a well-rounded look at Comino’s best spots, all in a manageable three hours. The private setting means the crew can customize the experience to your interests—whether you want more snorkeling, photos, or just relaxing on deck. The inclusion of paddleboards and fishing gear adds extra fun and value, especially for families or groups who like to stay active.

Cost-wise, at $329, the price may seem high for some, but when you consider the private nature, all the gear, and the scenic stops, it’s quite reasonable. For a family or group of friends, splitting this cost can make it a cost-effective way to get a personalized tour without the crowds.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This experience suits travelers who want flexibility, comfort, and a more intimate look at Comino. It’s ideal for families, couples, or small groups who appreciate snorkeling, scenic views, and the option to customize their day. If you’re someone who prefers avoiding large tour groups or crowded spots, this private charter provides a peaceful, tailored experience.

It’s also perfect if you’re staying in Malta or Gozo and want a quick yet comprehensive tour without dedicating an entire day. The boat’s amenities and the flexibility of the itinerary mean you get a lot of value out of just a few hours on the water.

The Sum Up

A private boat trip around Comino offers an efficient and enjoyable way to see the island’s highlights while keeping things relaxed and personalized. The combination of scenic coves, underwater snorkeling, dramatic caves, and the famous Blue Lagoon makes for a memorable day. The knowledgeable guides, well-equipped boat, and flexible itinerary mean you’re well taken care of, whether you’re seeking adventure, tranquility, or a bit of both.

If you value an authentic experience away from the crowds and want to enjoy Malta’s stunning waters at your own pace, this tour is a smart choice. Perfect for small groups, families, or anyone looking to add a splash of adventure to their Malta holiday.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately three hours, with multiple stops along Comino’s coastline.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Pearl Lagoon Boat Charters, with meeting points at Cirkewwa or Mgarr. It ends back at the same location.

Can I customize the experience?
Yes, the tour can be tailored to your preferences, including snorkeling, photography, or relaxing.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling masks are included, making it easy to see the underwater world.

What is included in the price?
Fuel, a skipper, restroom access, onboard bar, snorkeling gear, paddleboards, and fishing equipment are included.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, it’s designed for private groups of up to 20 people, providing a more intimate experience.

How accessible are the meeting points?
Both meeting points can be reached by public transport, with Valletta travelers taking a ferry to Mgarr.

What’s the best time to go?
Check availability for specific starting times. Early or late in the day might help avoid the crowds at Blue Lagoon.

Are there any age restrictions?
While not explicitly stated, children and families are welcome, especially with snorkeling gear and paddleboards available.

What should I bring?
Bring your swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and perhaps a camera—although most scenery is already incredibly photogenic.

This private Comino boat tour offers a fantastic way to see Malta’s jewel in the water with comfort and flexibility, making it an experience to remember long after you leave the islands.