Boat charters and boat tours in Malta

Boat charters and boat tours in Malta

Imagine gliding along Malta’s shimmering waters, your own private boat carrying you to some of the most iconic spots like Comino, Blue Lagoon, and Crystal Lagoon. For around $624 per group (up to 14 people) and a full day of about 7 hours, this private boat charter offers an intimate way to explore Malta’s coastlines, caves, and secluded bays. Your guide and fuel are included, along with a cooler filled with ice flakes, snorkel gear, and floating noodles—perfect for cooling off and relaxing between swims. Plus, you can connect your mobile device to the stereo system and set your favorite playlist.

What we love about this experience is the flexibility it offers. Unlike crowded group tours, this private charter allows you to tailor your stops—whether it’s a quick dip at St. Maria Bay, exploring caves at Mellieha and Comino, or just soaking in the views of Elephant Rock. The boat is a nimble 24 ft open motorboat powered by a Yamaha 250 HP engine, making it easy to hop from one scenic spot to another without the fuss of large tour groups. Plus, the knowledgeable skipper, Dorian, gets high praise for his friendly, attentive service—making the day not just about sights but also about feeling well cared for.

A potential consideration is that this tour is weather-dependent. Since it’s an outdoor activity on open water, rough seas or strong winds could affect the experience. Also, if you’re not comfortable on smaller boats or prone to seasickness, that’s worth keeping in mind. This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy water-based activities, value privacy, and want to explore at their own pace rather than join a big group.

This boat trip suits those who appreciate personalized service, authentic coastal adventures, and a relaxed, flexible itinerary. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a repeat traveler seeking a tailored experience, this tour offers a memorable way to see Malta’s best water spots.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Private experience: Perfect for groups seeking exclusivity and flexibility.
• All-inclusive: Skipper, fuel, snorkeling gear, noodles, and music system included.
• Multiple swim stops: Enjoy time at St. Maria Bay, Blue Lagoon, and Crystal Lagoon.
• Authentic local guide: Dorian’s friendly, attentive service enhances the trip.
• Ideal for water lovers: Snorkeling, paddleboarding, and swimming are central to the day.
• Weather sensitivity: Conditions can impact the experience, so check the forecast.

The Experience in Detail

The Itinerary Breakdown

This private boat tour begins at Aqua Bliss Charters in St. Julians, a convenient starting point for exploring Malta. After a brief safety overview and boarding, your skipper—likely Dorian, based on reviews—sets the course toward Malta’s stunning coastline.

First stop: Mellieha Cave and the Comino Caves. These limestone formations carved by time offer dramatic scenery and photo opportunities. We loved the way the caves’ shadows dance on the water, creating perfect photo moments, especially with the boat’s proximity.

Next, the boat cruises past Elephant Rock, one of Malta’s distinctive natural formations. From the water, it’s a striking sight, and you’ll get ample time to admire it from different angles. It’s a favorite among visitors for its unusual shape—like an elephant’s head—standing out against the sea.

The first swim stop at St. Maria Bay is perfect for cooling off after the boat ride. The water here is calm and inviting, making it an ideal spot for snorkelers and swimmers. You’ll find snorkel gear and noodles ready, as noted in reviews, which makes floating and exploring easy, even for beginners.

Then, the highlight: Blue Lagoon. Known for its clear, turquoise waters, this lagoon is a postcard-perfect swimming haven. You can lounge on the boat, snorkel to discover underwater life, or simply soak up the sun on the boat’s deck. The second swim stop here is often the most memorable, with vibrant underwater scenery.

Finally, the third swim stop at Crystal Lagoon offers a quieter alternative for those seeking a more relaxed, less crowded spot. The shallow, calm waters are inviting for families and those new to snorkeling.

Throughout the day, you’ll have the chance to connect your music to the stereo system, enhancing the experience with your favorite tunes. The boat size comfortably seats up to 14 people, making it a cozy but spacious environment for your group.

What Makes It Special

The flexibility of this private tour allows you to skip or linger at certain spots depending on how much swimming or exploring you want to do. Dorian’s attentive service, praised by past travelers in reviews, means you’re in good hands. He’s known for being pleasant, attentive, and ensuring everyone’s needs are met—whether it’s offering snorkel gear or helping with picture-taking.

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Practical Aspects and Value

The cost of $624 covers the entire boat and guide, which works out to a reasonable per-person rate for a full day’s adventure. Having the skipper and fuel included means no surprise costs later, and the addition of free snorkeling gear, floating noodles, and a paddleboard adds great value for water enthusiasts.

The tour’s duration—7 hours—is enough for a relaxed pace, allowing plenty of time for swimming, picture-taking, and lounging. You’ll appreciate the convenience of being picked up and dropped off at St. Julians, a popular and accessible part of Malta.

Authentic and Enjoyable

Reviews consistently highlight the knowledgeable guides and good service, which can turn a simple boat trip into a memorable experience. One reviewer called the skipper “very pleasant and attentive,” emphasizing how the guiding makes a difference in overall enjoyment.

Who Is This Tour For?

This private boat tour is perfect for small groups, families, or couples who want a personalized, flexible day on the water. If you love snorkeling, swimming, or just relaxing in beautiful settings, you’ll find this tour hits the mark. It’s especially suitable if you value having a guide who’s friendly and attentive because the reviews speak to Dorian’s excellent service.

Travelers looking for a stress-free day with all essentials covered—skipper, fuel, gear—will appreciate the straightforward, no-hidden-cost approach. It’s also ideal for those who prefer a quieter experience compared to larger group boat trips.

FAQs

How long is the boat tour?
The full-day option lasts about 7 hours, giving you plenty of time to visit multiple spots and enjoy on-water activities.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the skipper, fuel, snorkeling gear, floating noodles, and a cooler with ice flakes. You can connect your music to the boat’s stereo system.

Can I bring my own food and drinks?
While not specified, the cooler is available for storage, and it’s common to bring snacks or drinks—just check with your operator beforehand.

What are the swim stops?
Swim stops include St. Maria Bay, Blue Lagoon, and Crystal Lagoon—each offering calm waters and scenic surroundings.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the calm waters and snorkel gear make it family-friendly, especially since floatation noodles are provided.

How many people can fit on the boat?
The boat has a seating capacity for up to 14 people, making it suitable for small groups.

What if the weather is bad?
Since weather impacts outdoor water activities, check the local forecast. The activity offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at Aqua Bliss Charters in St. Julians, with a convenient pickup and drop-off.

Final thoughts

This private boat tour in Malta offers a well-balanced mix of scenic beauty, water activities, and personalized service—all at a reasonable price considering the full-day length. The flexible itinerary, beautiful swim stops, and friendly skipper make it a standout choice for those who want to experience Malta’s coast in a relaxed, authentic way.

If you’re an adventurous spirit, love snorkeling, or simply want a quiet day on the water with your friends or family, this trip delivers on all fronts. It’s especially suited for travelers who value quality service and customizable experiences over crowded tour options.

This tour provides excellent value and a chance to see Malta from a different perspective—on the water, with plenty of chances to swim, relax, and enjoy the island’s natural beauty.

You can check availability for your dates here:

References

• GetYourGuide Listing
• Review by Eva Bolumar: “We were very comfortable with the boat driver, in our case Dorian. He offered snorkelling goggles, noodles, and a large fridge…”
• Similar experiences are available on GetYourGuide, offering options for sunset cruises, day trips, and more.