Boat Charters Blue lagoon, Crystal Lagoon, Comino, Malta

Exploring Malta by Boat: A Closer Look at the Blue Lagoon & Comino Tour

If you’re dreaming about turquoise waters, hidden caves, and peaceful bays, a boat tour around Malta might just be your best bet. This private experience offers a relaxed way to see some of the most iconic spots, from the famous Blue Lagoon to lesser-known caves and scenic islands. We haven’t personally taken this trip, but based on reviews and detailed descriptions, it seems to deliver a memorable day out that appeals to a broad range of travelers.

What we really like about this tour? First, the exclusivity — it’s private, so your crew won’t be elbow-to-elbow with strangers, which makes the experience more relaxed and flexible. Second, the variety of stops packed into just a few hours, offering both swimming, snorkeling, and sightseeing opportunities. However, one thing to consider is the tour length; at around three and a half hours, it’s quite a condensed window, so if you’re after a full-day adventure, you might want to look at longer options.

This tour is ideal for those who want a mix of adventure and chill moments, whether you’re traveling with friends, family, or even solo. It’s suitable for anyone comfortable on a boat, and the stops are varied enough to keep everyone engaged. If you’re after beautiful scenery, some history, and the chance to swim in the clearest waters, this trip could be just right.

Key Points

• Private and personalized experience: Only your group will participate, which means more flexibility and comfort.
• Stunning scenery: Expect crystal-clear waters, caves, and scenic bays, perfect for photos and cooling off.
• Ideal for a diverse group: Suitable for adventure seekers, families, or those wanting a relaxed day on the water.
• Comprehensive itinerary: From Blue Lagoon to caves and scenic rocks, there’s plenty to see in just a few hours.
• All-inclusive amenities: Fuel, skipper, boat facilities, and snorkeling gear are provided, so no hidden costs.
• Limited duration: At roughly 3.5 hours, it’s a quick escape, ideal if you’re short on time but want a taste of Malta’s coast.

The Actual Experience: A Deep Dive into the Tour

Starting with the Blue Lagoon

The tour kicks off at the world-famous Blue Lagoon, which is often the highlight of any trip to Malta’s islands. You’ll likely be pleased to hear that the boat trip allows you to enjoy the stunning crystal waters without the usual crowds, thanks to the private nature of the tour. As Caroline_H describes it, having a smaller vessel is a real advantage: “We were very glad of our smaller vessel when we saw how big and crammed some of the other tourist boats were.”

During your 45-minute stop, you’ll get the chance to swim, relax, or just enjoy the scenery from the boat. The water is said to be clear enough that you can see plenty below, making this a perfect spot for cooling off after some sunbathing on deck. The fact that admission is free makes it even more appealing — the main cost here is the boat itself and the tips you might want to leave your skipper.

Exploring Crystal Lagoon and Nearby Caves

Next, the boat moves on to Crystal Lagoon, a favorite for snorkelers and adventure lovers. You can also indulge in cliff diving if you’re feeling brave, or explore Lovers Cave and Popeye’s Arch, which add a fun element to the experience. We love that the tour includes free snorkeling gear, so you can easily dip below the surface and see the underwater world.

The 30-minute stop here is well-timed, and reviewers like Melissa_W mention that the caves and scenery are truly incredible. She highlights her guide Nicholas, who was both helpful and friendly, making everything run smoothly and adding a personal touch to the trip.

Passing Historical Landmarks: St Mary’s Tower & Battery

As the boat cruises by St Mary’s Tower, you get a glimpse of Malta’s historical side. Built in the early 17th century by the Knights of St John, this structure not only has historical significance but also features in classic movies like The Count of Monte Cristo — a fun tidbit for movie buffs.

Near the tower is Saint Mary’s Battery, a defensive structure from the early 18th century designed to safeguard the southern channel. The area around the battery offers beautiful scenery and a peaceful swimming spot, ideal for a quick dip or some quiet contemplation. Passing by these historical sites adds a layer of cultural context, making the trip more than just a swim in pretty waters.

Santa Maria Caves and Bays

The Santa Maria Caves are a highlight — five caves on the northern side of Comino, accessible during the tour. At just 10 minutes, this stop is short but intense, giving you a glimpse of Malta’s natural rock formations. The caves’ unique shapes and the possibility to explore them make it a favorite among those who appreciate nature’s artistry.

Following that, you’ll visit Santa Maria Bay, with its sandy beach and calm waters. Here, you can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, or simply relaxing on the sand. The 30-minute stop is enough to soak in the scenery, and the waters are said to be pristine — perfect for families or anyone wanting a peaceful break.

San Niklaw Bay wraps up the Comino section of the trip, offering another tranquil, crystal-clear water spot, great for a final swim or some quick sunbathing.

Final stop at Alfa Rock on Gozo

The last stop is Alfa Rock on the east side of Gozo, known for its breathtaking scenery and clear waters. The 30-minute visit allows you to take in the views, snorkel, or just enjoy the peaceful ambiance. Reviewers have expressed that this spot offers wonderful swimming and snorkeling opportunities with scenic backdrops, making it a fitting end to the tour.

What’s Included & What’s Not

The tour’s all-inclusive package is quite comprehensive. You get the fuel, skipper, boat facilities (including shower and toilet), drinking water, an ice cooler, and snorkeling gear, which ensures you’re well-equipped for the trip. The inclusion of a guide speaking both English and Italian is a nice touch, especially if you prefer explanations in different languages.

On the flip side, private transportation to and from the marina is not included. While the tour is near public transportation, if you want door-to-door convenience, you’ll need to arrange your own transfer or taxi (which costs around 45 Euro). This could be an extra consideration for those staying outside central areas.

Price & Value

At roughly $295 for up to 11 people, the price breaks down fairly well considering the private nature and all the amenities included. If you’re traveling with a group, this could be a cost-effective way to enjoy a personalized day out, especially since it covers multiple scenic stops and provides snorkeling gear and drinks.

Booking & Flexibility

Most people book about two weeks in advance, which is smart if you want to secure your preferred date. The cancellation policy is flexible, with free cancellations up to 24 hours before the tour, offering peace of mind.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This private boat trip is a fantastic pick for those who want a relaxed yet diverse experience of Malta’s coast. It’s perfect for travelers who value comfort and intimacy over large group tours. If you like the idea of skipping crowded boats and exploring at your own pace, this could be your ideal adventure.

While not explicitly targeted at families with young children, the calm waters and scenic stops make it suitable for most ages — just keep in mind the need for comfortable boat rides and some swimming. It’s also a great choice for couples or friends wanting a memorable day with stunning views, historical sights, and some time to unwind.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

For anyone looking to enjoy Malta’s coastline in a personal, relaxed setting, this private boat tour delivers. The stops at Blue Lagoon and the caves are some of the most picturesque spots on the islands, and the chance to swim and snorkel in the clear waters is unbeatable. The fact that it’s private means more flexibility and comfort, making it perfect for those who prefer an exclusive experience.

The tour’s short duration keeps it manageable for most travelers, but you still get a good sampling of Malta’s natural beauty and history. The included amenities and friendly guides ensure you won’t have to worry about the little details, leaving you free to soak in the scenery.

If you’re after a peaceful, scenic escape with a touch of adventure and cultural flavor, this tour is definitely worth considering. It’s especially well-suited for groups wanting a personalized experience without the hassle of navigating everything alone.

FAQs

Is this boat tour suitable for families with children?
While not specifically marketed as family-oriented, the calm waters and scenic stops make it accessible for most ages. Just ensure children are comfortable on boats and swimming.

How long is the tour?
The total duration is approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, which fits well into a half-day outing without feeling rushed.

What’s included in the price?
Fuel, the skipper, boat facilities like a shower and toilet, drinking water, an ice cooler, snorkels, and a guide speaking English and Italian are included.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made more than 24 hours in advance. Less than that, and the full amount won’t be refunded.

Do I need to bring my own snorkel gear?
No, snorkels are provided as part of the package, so you can easily enjoy the underwater sights.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 16 days before, but it’s wise to reserve earlier if you want a specific date, especially in peak seasons.

Is transportation to the marina included?
No, transportation isn’t included, but the marina is near public transit. Taxis are available for around 45 Euro if needed.

What happens in bad weather?
If weather conditions are poor, the tour will be canceled, and you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

This private boat experience in Malta is a solid choice for travelers wanting a relaxed, scenic, and customizable day on the water. Whether you’re into swimming, exploring caves, or simply soaking up the views, it offers a memorable slice of island life.