Gozo and Comino Boat and Snorkeling Adventure

Are you craving a slice of the Mediterranean away from the crowds? This Gozo and Comino Boat and Snorkeling Adventure offers a personalized, intimate way to see some of Malta’s most stunning coastal features. For around $340 per group of up to four, you’ll get three hours of floating along turquoise waters, exploring caves, and soaking in the spectacular scenery.

What makes this tour stand out? First, it’s small-group focus means you won’t be herded like cattle through tourist hotspots. Our guides, like Angela, earn rave reviews for their knowledgeable, friendly approach, making each stop both fun and informative. Second, the custom route allows you to avoid the busy Blue Lagoon and enjoy quieter, more authentic spots—perfect if you’re tired of crowded boats and crowded beaches.

A couple of points to consider: the tour is weather-dependent, so at times, some areas might be off-limits or look different than expected. Also, the price is on the higher side, but most agree the personalized experience and exclusive access are worth it. This tour is ideal for travelers who want a tailored, relaxed day on the water, with a keen interest in snorkeling, caves, and scenic beauty rather than just ticking off the popular sites.

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience with small group sizes of up to 4 people.
• Expert guides like Angela who combine friendliness with local knowledge.
• Unique stops including caves, bays, and rock formations beyond the typical tourist routes.
• Flexible itinerary tailored to weather conditions and client preferences.
• Great for snorkelers with included gear and briefings on safety.
• Weather and sea conditions may impact some planned stops or routes.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Malta’s Coasts: What You Can Expect

The Gozo and Comino Boat and Snorkeling Adventure is essentially a bespoke water-based exploration of Malta’s lesser-known coastal treasures. From the start, you’ll meet at Mgarr Marina in Gozo, a convenient 10-minute walk from the ferry terminal, and board the Cirrus, a small, well-equipped boat designed for comfort and agility. The maximum group size of four (or up to five for private bookings) ensures plenty of space to relax and enjoy this intimate outing.

Why Small Groups Make a Difference

The small group size means the skipper—like the enthusiastic Angela—can customize the route based on weather, tides, and your preferences. Instead of a cookie-cutter tour, you’ll be offered options, like visiting Mgarr-ix-Xini Bay’s snorkel caves, exploring the Barbagann Rocks & Cave, or enjoying a swim at Hondoq Bay. This flexibility ensures you’re seeing what interests you most, with plenty of time for snorkeling and relaxing.

What’s Special About the Stops?

Mgarr-ix-Xini Bay is a highlight, offering stunning cliffs and clear waters perfect for snorkeling. The Barbagann Rocks & Cave are less crowded than other sites, providing a more authentic experience. You might also visit Qala Point, overlooking the fortress at Qala, where the water is calm enough for a refreshing dip, and the scenery is striking.

On Comino, the tour often includes exploring Santa Marija Bay’s smuggler’s caves—secretive spots that once served as hideouts—and the iconic Elephant Head Rock, a natural formation that’s perfect for photos. The Blue Lagoon is the big ticket, but most guides will optimize timing to avoid the busier periods, giving you a more tranquil experience in its crystal waters.

The Blue and Crystal Lagoons: Highlights or Overcrowded?

The Blue Lagoon is famous for its stunning, crystal-clear waters, and it’s easy to see why. But during peak times, it draws large crowds, which can diminish the magic. That’s why this tour’s approach of custom scheduling is a real plus: your guide will advise on when to visit to enjoy calmer waters. Many reviews mention how Angela’s knowledge helped them find less crowded spots that still delivered the postcard-perfect views.

The Crystal Lagoon offers a similar allure with fewer visitors, making it an ideal spot to snorkel at leisure. You’ll be supplied with snorkel gear (mask and tube), ensuring you’re ready to explore the underwater scenery.

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What’s Included and What’s Not?

Included are snorkel sets, dry bags to keep your belongings dry, and sunglass straps—small details that make a difference on a boat trip. You should bring water shoes for comfort on rocky beaches and sunscreen to protect yourself while on deck or in the water.

Fins, wetsuits, and wet shoes are not provided, but many travelers find fins helpful for longer snorkeling sessions. Wetsuits are generally unnecessary given the warm Mediterranean waters. The tour does not permit alcohol or drugs, ensuring safety and a family-friendly atmosphere.

Practicalities: Timing, Access, and Booking

Tours last about 3 hours, with flexible start times available—check availability to match your schedule. The activity is private, so your group can decide the pace and specific stops, making it perfect for couples, families, or small groups of friends.

Meeting is straightforward at Mgarr Marina; you’ll receive detailed directions and a pin to find the boat easily. After the tour, you’ll return to the same meeting point. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before, providing some peace of mind if your plans change.

Authentic Experiences and Genuine Reviews

Travelers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and the ability to visit hidden or less crowded locations. Axel, for instance, mentioned Angela made the trip special, and the snorkeling spots were “the nicest” he’s seen around Gozo and Comino. Silvia appreciated the discussions with the skipper and felt the tour was “strongly recommended.”

This tour clearly appeals to those who value customized adventures over cookie-cutter excursions. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy snorkeling, want a peaceful day away from crowds, and appreciate local insights.

Why Choose This Tour?

If your idea of a perfect Maltese day involves relaxing on a boat, discovering secret caves, and snorkeling in crystal-clear waters without the throngs of travelers, this experience hits the mark. The small, private group setting ensures you’re not just another face in the crowd, and the flexibility means your day can be tailored to your interests and the weather.

On the downside, if you’re looking for a full-day tour or want to visit multiple famous sites, this three-hour adventure might feel short. Also, while the price is higher than larger group tours, many find the personalized service and exclusive access well worth it.

This tour is best suited for adventurous snorkelers, small groups seeking intimacy, and travelers who appreciate local knowledge and authentic experiences over crowded tourist spots.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the minimum age is 8 years old. Minors under 17 must be accompanied by an adult, making it a good choice for families with older children who love water activities.

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?
No, the tour provides snorkel sets, including masks and tubes. However, you might prefer to bring your own fins or wet shoes for extra comfort.

What should I wear?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, and water shoes for rocky areas. The boat is open, so dress comfortably for outdoor conditions.

Can I join if I’m pregnant?
Pregnant women at 27 weeks or less may participate, but it’s best to check with your doctor first given the nature of the activity.

What happens if the weather turns bad?
The tour depends on weather conditions. If conditions are unsuitable, the activity might be rescheduled or canceled with a full refund.

Is this a full-day activity?
No, it lasts approximately 3 hours, making it ideal if you’re looking for a half-day adventure.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a boat and snorkeling tour like this offers a distinct advantage: personalized attention and access to hidden gems. The expert guides turn what could be a generic cruise into a tailored journey, perfect for those who want more than just the usual touristy sights. If you’re after secluded bays, caves, and snorkeling spots, and appreciate a small, friendly group, this experience is a solid choice.

The combination of expert guidance, flexible routing, and the promise of tranquil waters makes it stand out. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who want to explore at their own pace, snorkel in beautiful waters, and escape the crowds—while still enjoying Malta’s stunning coastlines.

In summary, this tour offers a fantastic blend of adventure, relaxation, and authentic coastal exploration. Its key strengths lie in small-group intimacy, local expertise, and the ability to customize your day. If these qualities matter to you, and you’re comfortable with a three-hour water adventure, it’s a memorable way to experience Malta’s natural beauty.

You can check availability for your dates here: