A Private Day Sailing Boat Charter in Malta: Explore in Style and Comfort
Imagine cruising across Malta’s shimmering waters in your own private yacht, just for your group. The Private Day Sailing Boat Charter offers a personalized, luxury experience that takes you beyond the typical crowded tours. Starting at Kalkara Marina, near Valletta’s Grand Harbour, this 9-hour adventure can include stops at iconic spots like Blue Lagoon and Crystal Lagoon, plus hidden sea caves and scenic bays only accessible by boat. The cost is roughly $637 for up to two people, and reviews suggest it’s well worth the expense for a day of true relaxation and discovery.
What we particularly love about this tour is the full customization — your skipper, such as Captain David or Mauricio, will tailor the day based on your preferences and the weather, making each trip unique. Second, the included amenities like snorkel gear, paddleboards, and a barbecue meal turn this into a feast of fun, with plenty of opportunities for swimming and exploring at your own pace.
A possible consideration is that food and drinks are not included in the base price, so you’ll want to plan for that if you’d like a hearty meal onboard. Also, since the trip is non-refundable, it’s wise to check the weather forecast beforehand to avoid cancellations. This experience is best suited for travelers seeking a private, flexible day on the water, whether celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a peaceful escape from crowded tourist spots.
Key Points
- Personalized Experience: Each trip is tailored to your group’s preferences, guided by knowledgeable skippers.
- Unique Access: Explore lagoons, sea caves, and beaches only reachable by boat, avoiding crowds.
- Inclusive Activities: Snorkeling gear and paddleboards are included, offering diverse ways to enjoy the water.
- Flexible and Customizable: Stops, swimming, and dining options can be adjusted based on your wishes.
- Excellent Reviews: Consistently rated a 5-star experience, praised for guides, scenery, and food.
- Value for Money: Though priced around $637, the private nature and tailored itinerary provide excellent value.
A Deep Dive into the Malta Private Sailing Experience
If you’re craving a luxurious yet authentic way to see Malta’s coast, this private sailing trip ticks all the boxes. It’s an experience designed for those who want more than just a sightseeing bus — you get to set your own pace, visit secluded spots, and soak in the scenery with minimal fuss.
Starting at Kalkara Marina, the journey begins with a brief meet-and-greet with your skipper. The marina, situated in Valletta’s Grand Harbour, offers a spectacular launch point that hints at the beauty ahead. From here, the boat heads north toward Comino, a small island famous for its Blue Lagoon, one of the top highlights on the tour.
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Exploring the Blue Lagoon and Crystal Lagoon
One of the most praised parts of this trip is the opportunity to visit the Blue Lagoon — a shallow, turquoise haven where many tours get crowded. Here, your skipper will find a peaceful spot for you to enjoy with your family or friends. As Amy G mentions, “We had a beautiful day on the water even though it was a little choppy on the sea.” This is a common theme: the ability to find calmer waters for swimming and snorkeling is what makes this trip stand out.
Crystal Lagoon is another must-see — famous for its crystal-clear waters and stunning rocks, it’s a small but spectacular stop that travelers say is not to be missed. Kevin D raves about the ease of booking and the friendly, accommodating skippers like Captain David, who share detailed insights about the landscape and Malta’s history.
Sea Caves and Hidden Bays
Beyond the lagoons, your guide might take you into hidden sea caves that are inaccessible from land. These caves offer a more intimate experience, allowing you to marvel at rugged limestone formations and perhaps find a quiet nook for snorkeling. As one reviewer noted, “Our captain found another spot that allowed us to swim without the crowds,” highlighting how flexible and responsive the skippers are to your desires.
Scenic Passages and Historic Landmarks
A highlight often mentioned is the passage by St. Paul’s Bay, where the Apostle Paul was shipwrecked. It’s a short stop, but it adds a touch of historical context to the journey. Plus, cruising past Sliema promenade provides an opportunity to enjoy Malta’s vibrant seaside life from a unique perspective.
Onboard Comfort and Meals
The luxury of this private charter extends to comfort and culinary delights. Although food and drinks are an extra, many guests choose to indulge in a barbecue meal onboard, cooked fresh on request. The reviews are full of praise for the quality of the food, especially the fish options like swordfish, paired with drinks and snacks. Captain Steve’s “famous barbecue,” for example, is often referenced as a tour highlight.
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Snorkeling and Paddleboarding
With snorkel gear and stand-up paddleboards included, you’re encouraged to explore underwater at your own pace. As Fiona C notes, “The snorkeling in the bay was fantastic,” and the ability to swim in calm, clear waters is a big draw. It’s an active component that appeals to families and adventurous travelers alike.
The Skippers and Their Role
Reviews universally praise the skippers, like Yuri, Mauricio, Nick, and Terrance, for their knowledge, friendliness, and flexibility. Many mention that these guides went beyond just navigating — sharing fun stories, helping with photography, and adjusting the route according to weather and group wishes. As Kevin M states, “Maurice was amazing! He shared beautiful spots and stories about Malta,” emphasizing the personal touch that elevates this experience.
Value and Overall Experience
While the $637 price tag might seem high at first glance, reviews suggest it’s a fair price for the level of privacy, customization, and quality of service received. Many travelers comment that they felt it was “worth every penny,” especially considering the personalized attention and exclusive access.
Considerations and Final Thoughts
The main caveat is that this is a non-refundable booking, so it’s wise to check the weather forecast. The experience is designed to be flexible, but poor weather could mean rescheduling or cancellations. Also, since food and drinks are optional extras, plan accordingly if you want a full onboard meal.
This tour is ideal for couples celebrating special occasions, families, or small groups who value privacy, comfort, and a tailored itinerary. It suits travelers who prefer active water-based adventures combined with leisurely sightseeing — all in a relaxed, intimate setting.
Who Will Love This Tour?
If you’re looking for a luxury, private day on Malta’s waters, with the ability to choose your own stops and activities, this trip fits the bill perfectly. It’s especially appealing if you want to avoid the crowds, enjoy beautiful scenery, and have a knowledgeable guide at your side. Perfect for celebrating a milestone, a honeymoon, or simply indulging in a seamless, stress-free escape, this charter will leave you with plenty of memorable moments and stunning photos.
This experience is also well-suited for families, as many reviews highlight how kids are fully entertained with snorkeling, paddleboarding, and swimming. The flexibility and excellent guides make it accessible for a wide range of travelers, from seasoned sailors to first-time boaters.
FAQ
How early should I book this tour?
On average, it’s booked about 26 days in advance, so planning ahead will help secure your preferred date, especially during busy months.
What is included in the price?
The base price covers all taxes, fuel, a skipper/guide, and snorkeling equipment. Food and drinks are not included but can be arranged as an extra.
Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at Kalkara Marina in Malta, with the meeting point being the pontoon in Kalkara.
How long does the tour last?
The experience is approximately 9 hours long, giving ample time to explore multiple spots and enjoy leisure activities.
Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the skippers are very flexible and will tailor the day based on your preferences and the weather conditions.
Is this suitable for children?
Absolutely. Many reviews mention that kids are fully entertained with snorkeling, paddleboarding, and swimming, with no minimum age requirements.
What happens if the weather is bad?
If poor weather causes cancellations, you will be offered an alternative date or a full refund. The tour requires good weather to operate safely.
To sum it up, this private sailing trip offers a rare blend of luxury, flexibility, and authentic scenic beauty. It’s perfect for those who want to see Malta from a different perspective — away from crowds, with the comfort of a private vessel and the guidance of friendly, knowledgeable skippers. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a peaceful day on the water, you’ll come away with memories to cherish for years. Just remember to check the weather, plan for optional extras, and enjoy Malta’s sparkling coast in style.
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