Qala might be best known for its peaceful vibe and stunning coastal scenery, but it’s also a fantastic spot to explore Malta’s waters. With several boat tours tailored to different interests — from private charters to quick scenic trips — this area offers a wonderful way to see the island from a new angle. We’re particularly fond of tours that combine personalized service and unique experiences, like snorkeling at crystal-clear spots or exploring caves. If you’re looking to relax with family, or explore Malta’s coastline with friends, Qala’s boat tours deliver memorable moments and some excellent photo opportunities.
While Malta’s shoreline can be busy in summer, Qala’s boat trips tend to feel more intimate. Whether you want a full-day adventure at Blue Lagoon or a quick snorkeling trip, each tour offers something special. For those wanting a private experience or a flexible itinerary, options like the Comino: Private Boat Trips or the Malta Gozo & Comino: Boat Tour are perfect. These excursions allow you to avoid crowds and tailor your day to your interests. If you’re short on time but still want a taste of Malta’s marine beauty, the 2-hour tour is a quick way to dip your toes in the water.
Quick Overview
Below, we feature three top boat tours in Qala, each with unique qualities. The Comino: Private Boat Trips, Swimming stops and Caves Tours offer a flexible, private experience perfect for families or groups. For those seeking value and guided expertise, the Malta Gozo & Comino: Boat Tour Best Price w/inclusions 4 hrs provides an engaging half-day exploring Malta’s coastline with a friendly captain. Lastly, the Malta Gozo & Comino: Boat Tour Best Price w/inclusions 2hrs is a shorter, more budget-friendly option, ideal for travelers with limited time.
1. Comino: Private Boat Trips, Swimming stops and Caves Tours
At number one on our list, this private boat trip offers personalized service and flexibility. For around $624 per group (up to 25 people), you can choose a full or half-day adventure that suits your schedule. The tour includes pickup from Gozo, Mgarr Harbour, or Malta, making logistics straightforward. The itinerary features stops at Saint Mary’s Tower, Crystal Lagoon, and the famous Blue Lagoon, with plenty of time for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing in clear waters.
What makes this tour stand out is the ability to customize your experience — whether you want to focus on snorkeling in marine-rich areas or just relax with friends on deck. The Crystal Lagoon offers excellent marine life viewing, while the Blue Lagoon’s turquoise waters are perfect for relaxing swims. The itinerary’s pace is relaxed, allowing for spontaneous exploration or quiet sunbathing. Reviews are glowing, emphasizing how memorable and intimate the experience is.
Bottom line: If you want a flexible, private experience with expert guidance and access to Malta’s best swimming spots, this tour is an excellent pick. Its personalized nature makes it ideal for families or groups who prefer to set their own pace.
2. Malta Gozo & Comino: Boat Tour Best Price w/inclusions 4 hrs
Coming in at number two, this 4-hour tour offers great value and an excellent overview of Malta’s coastlines. For just around $301 per group (up to 7 people), you get a well-rounded experience that includes caves, cliff sides, and snorkeling. The tour departs from either Äirkewwa or Mgarr Harbour, with a friendly owner-operator who makes the trip unrushed and personalized.
Guests appreciate the guided commentary that shares local insights, enhancing the sightseeing experience. The highlight is snorkeling over a shipwreck and exploring caves that are otherwise inaccessible from land. The captain’s extensive knowledge and relaxed style are often praised — “Peter was so accommodating,” one reviewer said — which adds to the enjoyment. The tour includes swim stops, with ample time to explore the Blue Lagoon or the Crystal Lagoon, depending on weather and preference.
This tour is best suited for travelers who want a more guided, leisurely experience with a focus on marine exploration. Its shorter duration makes it perfect for a quick, yet immersive, day at sea.
Bottom line: For a balanced mix of sightseeing, snorkeling, and coastal exploration at a reasonable price, this tour offers great value. It’s ideal for small groups who want an unrushed, personalized adventure.
3. Malta Gozo & Comino: Boat Tour Best Price w/inclusions 2hrs
Last but not least, this 2-hour tour provides a quick taste of Malta’s coastlines. For just $170 per group (up to 7 people), it’s a perfect choice for travelers on a tight schedule or those wanting a budget-friendly option. The trip covers swim stops at Comino, Blue Lagoon, and the Gozo coastline, with plenty of opportunities to snorkel and admire marine life.
This tour is particularly suited for those who want a straightforward, no-frills experience — a quick escape to see the most iconic spots without the fuss of a full day. It starts from Mgarr Harbour or Ċirkewwa, with a safety briefing and a friendly captain eager to show the highlights. Reviewers mention the personalized approach and the captain’s local knowledge, which makes the experience memorable despite the short duration.
While it doesn’t include the extensive sightseeing of longer tours, its simplicity makes it appealing to families with young children or travelers who want a quick aquatic adventure.
Bottom line: If your schedule is tight but you still want a memorable boat trip, this short tour hits the mark with its focus on key highlights and affordability.
$170 per group up to 7
How to Choose the Right Boat Tour in Qala
When selecting a boat tour, consider your budget, the amount of time you have, and what kind of experience you’re after. For a fully private, customizable trip, the Comino Private Boat Trips are hard to beat, especially for groups seeking exclusivity. If you prefer a guided, engaging overview with snorkeling and cave exploration, the 4-hour Malta Gozo & Comino tour offers a solid balance of value and variety. For those on a tight schedule or budget, the 2-hour tour provides a quick but enjoyable snapshot of Malta’s coast.
Always check availability early, especially in peak summer months, and think about what activities matter most — whether it’s snorkeling, cave exploring, or simply relaxing on deck. Booking in advance guarantees you a spot on these popular tours.
To sum it up, Qala’s marine excursions range from private, personalized adventures to quick, budget-friendly trips. If you want to avoid crowds and have control over your day, the private tour is your best choice. For those wanting guided exploration with snorkeling, the 4-hour tour offers excellent value. And if you’re pressed for time but still want a memorable experience, the 2-hour tour will satisfy your curiosity. Whichever you choose, booking early ensures you won’t miss out on these wonderful adventures in Malta’s stunning waters.