BBQ Bay Cruises: Elephant Rock, Blue Lagoon, Gozo & Comino

A Warming Look at the BBQ Bay Cruises: Elephant Rock, Blue Lagoon, Gozo & Comino

If you’re dreaming of a day on the water exploring Malta’s beautiful coastlines, this private boat tour to Elephant Rock, Blue Lagoon, Gozo, and Comino might just tick the boxes. We haven’t personally been on this one, but based on the details and reviews, it seems like an experience that offers a relaxed, personalized way to enjoy the Maltese waters—perfect if you prefer a more intimate adventure rather than a large group tour.

What really caught our eye is the chance to customize your journey and enjoy delicious BBQ delights onboard, all while soaking up some of the most iconic sights Malta has to offer. The idea of exploring secluded snorkelling spots and hidden caves sounds perfect for anyone who loves a mix of adventure and chill time on the sea. That said, it’s worth noting that this isn’t a full-day tour, which might be a consideration if you’re after a longer experience.

This tour seems best suited for travelers who want a private, flexible outing with friends or family, keen on enjoying Malta’s coastline with a good mix of sightseeing, swimming, and great food. If you’re looking for an authentic, laid-back escape with a touch of luxury, it might just be your thing.

Key Points

• Private and customizable experience, ideal for groups wanting exclusivity
• Includes snorkeling gear and blue lagoon permits for water-based fun
• Focus on scenic views and discovering hidden caves and beaches
• Legendarily tasty BBQ feast with the freedom to choose your spot
• Knowledgeable skipper ensures safety and adjusts plans based on weather
• Pricing is per boat (not per person), suited for groups of up to 6
• Duration is about 3 hours, perfect for a half-day escape
• Comfortable amenities like sun decks, shaded canopies, and free WiFi

You can check availability for your dates here:

What You Can Expect from the Tour

Imagine setting out on an exclusive private boat, feeling the sun on your skin and the breeze in your hair. The skipper’s expertise means you’re in good hands, and their flexibility allows the experience to adapt to weather conditions, making sure you get the best possible views and stops.

Starting Point and Schedule

The tour departs from two main points: Mgarr in Gozo and Cirkewwa in Malta. Both are conveniently located near popular spots—Mgarr close to the Mgarr Harbour Terminal, and Cirkewwa near the Cirkewwa Kiosk—making it simple to find your way. Departure times vary, so checking the availability beforehand is wise. The tour lasts around three hours, which is enough time to enjoy several key stops without feeling rushed.

The Itinerary and Highlights

Comino and the Blue Lagoon are the main highlights, and for good reason. We love the way this tour introduces you to Comino’s unspoiled beauty, avoiding the crowds that often gather at the Blue Lagoon. Instead, you get to swim in crystal-clear waters and explore caves and coves that are usually packed with travelers on larger boats.

The Blue Lagoon itself is the star—its turquoise waters are genuinely breathtaking and perfect for swimming or just floating around with a drink in hand. The boat’s shaded canopy helps keep you cool while you relax on deck, and you’ll have snorkeling equipment provided, so you can check out the underwater world. One reviewer pointed out how the skipper guides the group to the best snorkel spots, making the experience more enjoyable.

Next, the tour moves along the coastline to discover hidden caves and beaches, often inaccessible by land. This offers a chance for great photo opportunities and quiet moments away from crowded spots.

Gozo’s scenic coastlines are also on the agenda, giving you a taste of the island’s rugged beauty. The tour is flexible enough to include tailor-made stops based on your preferences, whether you want to linger at a secluded cove or explore a cave.

Snorkeling and Swimming

Having snorkeling gear included is a nice perk, and the calm, pristine waters around Comino and the Blue Lagoon make for excellent underwater exploration. The reviews indicate that swimming in the Blue Lagoon is a highlight, with many guests noting how the water is refreshingly clear and inviting.

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The BBQ Experience

After a couple of hours on the water, it’s time for the delicious BBQ feast onboard. The tour emphasizes a flexible, personalized BBQ, allowing you to choose your preferred spot on the boat to enjoy your meal. The skipper’s guidance helps select the best location, considering weather and tides, which enhances the experience. Reviewers commend the tasty BBQ food and the relaxed atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after some aquatic adventures.

The Value of This Tour

At $182 for a group of up to six, the cost is quite reasonable, especially considering it’s a private experience. You’re paying for exclusivity, customization, and the convenience of having everything arranged for you—snorkeling gear, permits, safety equipment, and a gourmet BBQ.

The duration of three hours strikes a good balance—enough time to explore, swim, and enjoy your meal without feeling like you’re on a tight schedule. Plus, the free WiFi onboard is a nice touch for sharing snaps or checking in with family.

Balancing the Downsides

One thing to keep in mind is the cost of extras like professional skipper (€75) and fuel (€75), which are not included in the base price. This means the overall experience can be a bit more expensive if you opt for everything, but many would agree the personalized service and flexibility justify the added expense.

Another consideration is that the itinerary can be adjusted based on weather and sea conditions. While this ensures safety and a good experience, it might mean some planned stops are altered or moved. It’s worth being flexible and trusting the skipper’s judgment.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This cruise is ideal for small groups or families wanting privacy and flexibility. If you’re looking to avoid crowded tours and prefer a tailor-made day on the water, this is a good pick. It’s also perfect if you’re keen on snorkeling, swimming, and enjoying a quality BBQ in stunning surroundings.

Those who enjoy a relaxed pace and appreciate scenic beauty without the hustle will find this tour a memorable way to see Malta’s coast. Keep in mind, it’s shorter in duration, so if you’re after a full-day adventure, you might want to look elsewhere.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, snorkeling gear and calm waters suggest it could be enjoyable for older children, especially if they’re comfortable on boats.

What should I bring?
Sunglasses, swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen are recommended to stay comfortable during the trip.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the tour is tailor-made, and your skipper can suggest stops based on weather conditions and your preferences.

How early should I arrive?
It’s best to arrive 30 minutes early to ensure a timely departure, especially to avoid missing your slot.

Are food and drinks included?
No, the tour does not include food or drinks, but the BBQ feast is available as an optional treat for an additional cost.

Is WiFi available onboard?
Yes, free WiFi is provided, along with Bluetooth speakers for your music.

What if the weather turns bad?
The skipper holds the authority to cancel or postpone based on weather conditions—so it’s helpful to stay flexible.

Can I pay now or later?
You can reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Final Thoughts

This private boat tour around Malta’s stunning coastlines offers an appealing blend of scenic beauty, water fun, and delicious food. The ability to customize your journey and enjoy exclusive access to caves, beaches, and the Blue Lagoon makes it stand out from typical group tours. The inclusion of snorkeling gear and permits adds to its value, ensuring you can really make the most of the experience.

While the additional costs for skipper and fuel can add up, many guests feel the intimate, personalized service makes it worthwhile. The three-hour duration strikes a nice balance—long enough to enjoy key sights but short enough for a laid-back half-day adventure.

This experience suits those who want a more relaxed, private way to explore Malta’s coast, with the flexibility to tailor the day to their desires. It’s especially appealing if you enjoy snorkeling, swimming, and good food in a stunning setting, with the comfort of knowing your experience is guided, safe, and customizable.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want a beautiful day on the water, this tour offers a memorable slice of Maltese life—quiet, scenic, and delicious.

You can check availability for your dates here: