Full Day Private charter to Crystal & Blue Lagoon, Caves & Gozo

Planning a boat trip around Malta and its nearby islands? We’ve come across a highly-rated private boat tour that offers a full day of exploring some of Malta’s most beautiful spots — from sparkling lagoons to hidden caves. This tour is designed for those who want flexibility, comfort, and a chance to see Malta’s coastline up close without the crowds.

What we love about this experience is how it combines curated stops with the freedom to tailor the day to your preferences — whether that’s swimming in clear waters, enjoying a seaside lunch, or snorkeling over wrecks. Plus, the fact that it’s a private tour means no need to share space with strangers, creating a more relaxed vibe.

On the flip side, the tour’s length (around 7 hours) and price point (about $743 for up to 15 people) might be a consideration if you’re traveling solo or on a tight budget. It’s best suited for groups or families who want a comprehensive, personalized day out. If you’re after a laid-back, scenic adventure with some snorkeling and sightseeing, this could be just the right fit.

Key Points

• Private experience: You’ll have a boat and guide exclusively for your group, which means customization and comfort.
• Variety of stops: From Blue Lagoon to caves and beaches, each stop offers unique scenery and activities.
• Includes food and drinks: Free appetizers and the option for BBQ or special requests make it more than just sightseeing.
• Flexible meeting points: Options in Cirkewwa or Mgarr, with transportation assistance available.
• Ideal for groups: Up to 15 people, making it perfect for families, friends, or small parties.
• Weather-dependent: Cancellations due to poor weather are possible, so check the forecast.

An Overview of the Experience

This private boat tour offers a relaxed yet action-packed day exploring Malta’s stunning coastlines, caves, and islands. What sets it apart is its personalized approach — it’s designed to cater to your group’s interests, whether that’s snorkeling, swimming, or just taking in the scenery. The total duration of approximately 7 hours gives ample time to enjoy the sights without feeling rushed, with enough flexibility for stops and lunch.

The tour is operated by Comino Cruises & Charters by Bulldog, a reputable company with excellent reviews. They emphasize customer satisfaction, and travelers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, beautiful scenery, and overall value.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Start Point: Choosing Your Meeting Location

The tour starts at either Cirkewwa in Malta or Mgarr in Gozo. Both are accessible via public transport, which is handy if you’re staying in Valletta or nearby. For visitors coming from Valletta, a quick ferry or taxi can get you to your meeting point. The flexibility with locations helps keep logistics simple, especially for those unfamiliar with Malta.

Stop 1: The Charm of Gozo’s Marr Harbour

Your journey begins with a visit to Marr Harbour, Gozitan’s largest fishing port. The scene here is lively, with colorful wooden boats, local bars, and restaurants lining the waterfront. It’s an excellent spot to soak in local life and grab some fresh seafood for lunch — highly recommended if you want an authentic Gozitan meal.

The harbor’s gothic-style church adds a touch of history to the scene. Traveling here offers a glimpse of local Gozitan culture and is a peaceful start before heading to the more lively lagoons and caves.

Stop 2: The Blue Lagoon

Next, you’ll reach the star attraction — The Blue Lagoon. Its waters are so clear and inviting you’ll want to jump right in. The lagoon’s calm, turquoise waters are perfect for swimming and relaxing. You’ll also have the chance to explore a natural cave swimming through or around it, which adds a sense of adventure.

The lagoon amenities include kiosks offering fast food, ice-creams, and beverages, so you can snack while enjoying the scenery. Watersports are available here, so if you’re feeling energetic, it’s the ideal spot for some fun in the water. The Saint Mary’s Tower nearby is a lovely backdrop for photos.

Stop 3: San Niklaw Bay

For a quieter experience, San Niklaw Bay provides a peaceful retreat with two sandy beaches, making it especially suitable for families or those with young kids. Here, you can unwind away from the crowds and enjoy the pristine environment.

Stop 4: Santa Marija Bay

Further along, Santa Marija Bay offers a gentle, relaxing environment. It’s perfect if you want to take it slow — enjoy the small church nearby and maybe some more secluded swimming. Food kiosks are available to refresh you after some time in the water.

Stop 5: Crystal Lagoon and Its Caves

One of the highlights of the tour, this crystal lagoon features stunning waters and two caves. The cave beneath Saint Mary’s Tower is especially unique — swim inside, and at the end, there’s a cozy sandy beach to relax. The guide will swim with you, making sure everyone feels comfortable exploring.

The open cave offers a more straightforward swim through experience, ideal for snorkelers or adventurous swimmers. Cliff jumpers will also appreciate this spot for its thrill factor, and the view of Saint Mary’s Tower only adds to the charm. Just outside, a military wreck lies submerged at about 25 meters — perfect for those with diving gear.

Stop 6: Santa Maria Caves

A real treat, these caves combine natural beauty with a bit of adventure. Visitors can swim into a pond inside a cave, swimming under or around to explore. The guide’s knowledge and assistance make this experience accessible, even if you’re not a seasoned diver. This spot is also famous for being a filming location for The Count of Monte Cristo, adding a touch of cinematic magic.

Stop 7: The Elephants’ Head Formation

On the northern part of Gozo, you’ll find a naturally formed shape resembling an elephant’s head — an intriguing natural sculpture worth viewing from the boat.

Final Stop: Hondoq Bay

To wrap up your day, the tour visits Hondoq Bay, one of Gozo’s most popular beaches. It’s a lively spot where you can try water sports, relax, or enjoy a laid-back lunch with a view of the blue waters.

Food & Beverage

Throughout the day, free appetizers are included, which is a nice touch and provides a light refreshment. Plus, the option to request a BBQ or other special requests makes this tour adaptable if you want a more substantial meal or specific cuisine.

What Travelers Say

According to one glowing review, a family of 28 had an unforgettable experience, highlighting the professionalism of the crew and the enjoyment of swimming and jumping in the sea. The reviewer emphasized how well the tour was handled, from booking to the actual day, and praised the guides’ care and knowledge.

Another recurring theme in reviews is the stunning scenery and the friendly, attentive guides who make the experience smooth and enjoyable. The inclusion of snorkeling and cave exploration appears to be a big hit with guests, adding an extra layer of adventure.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $742.90 for a group of up to 15, this tour offers excellent value if you’re traveling with friends or family. It’s a private experience, so you won’t be stuck with strangers — which makes a big difference in how relaxed and flexible your day can be. The inclusion of food, and the chance to tailor the day, adds to the overall value.

For groups or those wanting a customized, scenic day out, this tour offers a perfect balance of relaxation, adventure, and personalized service.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for small groups seeking a comprehensive day exploring Malta’s coast and islands without the hassle of organizing transport or multiple bookings. It’s especially good for families, friends, or couples who want a quiet, scenic adventure with the option for snorkeling and sightseeing. If you like the idea of a flexible, private boat trip that covers multiple scenic stops, this is a strong choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour private?
Yes, it’s a private tour, with only your group participating.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 7 hours, allowing plenty of time to enjoy each stop.

Can I request special food options?
Yes, the tour can accommodate BBQs or other requests if arranged beforehand.

Where do I meet the boat?
You can choose between two meeting points: Cirkewwa in Malta or Mgarr in Gozo, both accessible by public transport or taxi.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the description doesn’t specify age restrictions, many of the activities such as swimming and snorkeling are suitable for children, especially in calmer spots like San Niklaw Bay and Hondoq Bay.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers the boat, guide, and free appetizers. Additional meals or requests can be arranged.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour can be canceled due to poor weather, and you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Are watersports available?
Yes, at Blue Lagoon, watersports are available for those interested.

How many people can join?
Up to 15 people per group, but the boat can accommodate up to 40 if needed.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the experience can be tailored to your preferences if planned in advance.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a day that combines natural beauty, adventure, and personalized service, this private boat tour around Malta and Gozo checks all the boxes. It’s perfect if you want to see some of Malta’s most iconic spots — like Blue Lagoon and Santa Maria Caves — while also having the flexibility to relax or explore at your own pace.

While it’s a bit on the pricier side, many travelers find the private, all-inclusive nature and the knowledgeable crew make it worth every euro. Whether you’re a family wanting a safe, fun day or a group of friends seeking a scenic escape, this tour offers a memorable way to experience Malta’s stunning coastlines.

Happy sailing, and I hope your Maltese adventure is truly unforgettable!