Exploring Malta by Boat: A Review of the Comino Private Boat Trip Experience
If you’re dreaming of a day out on the water that combines relaxation, adventure, and a touch of exclusivity, a private boat trip around Comino and Gozo might be just what you need. While I haven’t personally been on this exact tour, reviews and descriptions paint a picture of a well-rounded, flexible experience that appeals to those who want to see Malta’s coastal gems without the hustle and bustle of crowded tours.
One thing that immediately caught my eye is the customizable itinerary—you can choose between a half or full day trip, and the stops are tailored to your preferences, making it perfect for families, friends, or even couples celebrating a special occasion. I also love how the boat’s features seem designed to maximize comfort and fun, from shade-covered decks to Bluetooth stereo systems for your favorite tunes. That said, it’s not the cheapest outing, but for a group of up to 25 people, it offers a good balance of exclusivity and value.
A possible consideration is the weather—since Malta’s seas can sometimes be unpredictable, especially in winter, the trip might be canceled or rescheduled if conditions aren’t suitable. However, the company’s flexible rescheduling policy offers reassurance. This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of sightseeing and active fun, like swimming and snorkeling, and who appreciate a personalized experience rather than a large-group cruise.
If you’re looking for a laid-back, scenic adventure on Malta’s waters with a cozy, private vibe, this trip could be just right. It also works well if you’re keen on exploring hidden spots rather than just the main tourist attractions. Now, let’s dive deeper into what makes this experience stand out—and some of the things to keep in mind.
Key Points
- Private and personalized experience tailored to your group
- Includes all the essentials: snorkeling masks, a cooler for drinks, and a skipper
- Flexible itinerary with the ability to choose full or half-day options
- Ideal for relaxing, swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying scenic views
- Includes convenient pickup from Gozo or Malta
- Weather-dependent, so plan for some flexibility
What Makes this Private Boat Trip Stand Out?
This experience centers on giving you a customized day at sea with the privacy and comfort of a dedicated boat. For a group of up to 25 people, it’s a chance to enjoy Malta’s stunning coast without the crowds, making it especially appealing for families, groups of friends, or even small celebrations.
The boat, called Lucky Lady, is equipped with shade at the back, open decks, rooftop access, a bathing platform, and a climbing ladder. These features mean you can choose to lounge in the sun or enjoy some shade—whatever suits your mood. Plus, with a toilet, outdoor fresh water shower, and seating all around, it’s designed for comfort during the day.
One of the main values here is the ability to explore some of Malta’s most beautiful and less accessible spots. The itinerary includes Crystal Lagoon, Blue Lagoon, and other lesser-known gems like San Niklaw and Santa Marija Bay. You also get the chance to visit caves like the Santa Maria Caves, adding a sense of adventure. And because the stops are flexible, you can spend as much time as you like swimming, snorkeling, or just soaking up the views.
Enjoy being on the water? Here are other boat experiences we've looked into in Qala
The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect
The tour’s route is crafted to maximize scenic beauty and fun. Here’s a typical outline, based on detailed descriptions and reviews:
- Start at either Gozo Ferry Terminal or Cirkewwa Jetty—depending on your location, the pickup is straightforward. The boat departs with a cruise around the coast for approximately 10 minutes, giving you a gentle introduction to the sights ahead.
- The first stop at Saint Mary’s Tower is brief but perfect for photos and a quick look at this historic lookout point.
- The real highlight begins at Crystal Lagoon—a popular swimming and snorkeling spot with clear waters full of marine life. Here, you’ll get around 80 minutes to relax, swim, and snorkel, making the most of the calm, inviting waters.
- Next, the boat heads to the Blue Lagoon, the star attraction. With around 2.5 hours scheduled for this stop, you can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, exploring the caves, or even grab a leisurely drink or meal. Many reviews praise the relaxing vibe and the chance to connect with nature, away from tourist crowds.
- The tour continues with additional stops, including Mgarr Harbour for photos and exploration, and Ondoq Ir-Rummien Beach, where marine life viewing and swimming continue.
- The final sightseeing stop is at the Santa Maria Caves, a brief but scenic pass-by that rounds out the adventure.
- The boat then returns to the starting point, having experienced Malta’s coast from an intimate, water-level perspective.
Throughout, each stop is designed to give ample time for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing. The inclusion of snorkel masks and optional stand-up paddle boards (at an extra charge) means you’ll have plenty of ways to enjoy the water.
The Experience on Board
The Lucky Lady boat’s features really enhance the trip. The Bluetooth stereo system allows you to play your favorite tunes, setting the perfect mood. The shade cover is a thoughtful inclusion, especially for those prone to sunburn or who prefer a break from the sun. The open deck at the front provides a great spot for sightseeing or catching some rays, while the rooftop deck adds a fun vantage point.
The bathing platform and climbing ladder make it easy to hop in and out of the water. And with snorkel masks provided, you can immediately start exploring the underwater world. The outdoor freshwater shower is a simple but appreciated touch to rinse off after swimming.
The skipper and crew are described as friendly, knowledgeable, and accommodating—key ingredients for a smooth trip. We read that even when weather conditions change unexpectedly, the team quickly adapts, offering alternative activities or rescheduling.
The Value for Price
At $624 for a group of up to 25, this private experience is a fair investment, especially considering the exclusivity and flexibility. The price covers the boat, skipper, fuel, snorkel gear, and some amenities. You’ll want to bring your own food and drinks (which you can store in the cooler), or plan to stop for lunch at a local spot like Mgarr Harbour.
Compared to large group tours or standard boat rentals, this private option offers more personalized service and the freedom to set your own pace. For a special day out with friends or family, many will find it a worthwhile splurge.
More Great Tours NearbyWho Should Consider This Tour?
This trip works well for those seeking a relaxed, customizable day at sea. It’s suitable for anyone comfortable on a boat—there’s no indication that it’s specifically family-friendly, but if your kids are good with water and boats, they’ll probably love it. The smaller group size creates a relaxed atmosphere, ideal for intimate gatherings or celebrating a special occasion.
Travelers who value privacy, flexibility, and personalized attention will particularly appreciate how the itinerary can adapt to weather or your preferences. If you’re looking for a way to explore Malta’s coast away from crowds, this trip hits the mark.
In The Sum Up
This private boat trip around Comino and Gozo offers a blend of scenic beauty, active fun, and tailored comfort. From swimming in crystal-clear waters to exploring caves and enjoying quiet moments on deck, it’s a flexible way to experience Malta’s coast without the hustle of larger tours.
The features onboard make it a comfortable and enjoyable outing, and the skipper’s local knowledge seems to make the experience even more memorable. While it’s a premium price, for groups of friends or families who want an exclusive, customized day, it’s a solid investment.
It’s best suited for those who enjoy a laid-back, scenic cruise with plenty of time for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. If you’re after a private, well-organized trip that combines the best of Malta’s waters and caves, this could very well be your ideal boat adventure.
Comino: Private Boat Trips, Swimming stops and Caves Tours
“Our skipper (Angelo?) was wonderful and accommodating. He was very personable and brought us to great swimming spots and tried to make sure we have…”
FAQs
How many people can fit on the boat?
The boat has a maximum capacity of 25 passengers, making it ideal for small to medium groups looking for a private experience.
Is food and drinks included in the price?
No, food and drinks are not included. You’re welcome to bring your own onboard or plan to stop at a local restaurant or kiosk during the trip.
What amenities does the boat have?
The boat includes a shaded deck, open deck, rooftop access, a bathing platform, climbing ladder, toilet, outdoor fresh water shower, and a Bluetooth stereo system.
Are snorkel masks provided?
Yes, snorkel masks are included and can be used freely throughout the trip.
Can I book stand-up paddleboards?
Yes, paddle boards are available at a minimal extra charge, but they need to be booked in advance.
What happens if the weather is unsuitable?
If weather conditions prevent the trip from going ahead, you can reschedule or get a full refund, based on the provider’s policy.
How long is the typical trip?
Full-day trips usually run from 10 am to 4 pm, but timings can vary depending on availability, and you can extend or shorten the trip if desired.
This private boat tour offers a relaxed, scenic, and customizable way to enjoy Malta’s coast—whether you’re celebrating, exploring, or just unwinding on the water. It’s a great choice if you value privacy and personal attention during your time at sea.
You can check availability for your dates here:
