Comino Private Boat Tour in Malta

If you’re thinking about taking a boat trip around Malta’s famous Comino island, you’re probably curious about what you’ll actually get for your money. This particular private boat tour offers a tailored experience that promises to show you some of Malta’s most iconic waters, like the Blue Lagoon and Crystal Lagoon, while giving you the flexibility to customize your day. It’s a popular choice, especially for small groups, with an average booking window of about 12 days in advance – so it’s clearly in demand.

What I like about this experience is how it combines stunning scenery with a sense of intimacy—being on a private boat makes it feel special and relaxed. Plus, the stops at well-known spots like Blue Lagoon are complemented by the chance to snorkel and enjoy the waters at your own pace. The other highlight? The option to customize your journey means you can prioritize specific spots or relax in secluded areas away from crowds.

On the flip side, one thing to consider is the safety aspect. A review from an earlier traveler pointed out feeling a bit unsafe, mainly due to what they described as a “laid-back” skipper. While most reviews are positive, it’s worth remembering that a relaxed captain can sometimes impact how secure you feel, especially on open water. This tour might suit those who value flexibility and privacy over a more structured or professionally guided experience.

This tour is best suited for travelers who appreciate personalized adventures, like swimming in beautiful lagoons, exploring rocky caves, and enjoying Malta’s waters with a small, exclusive group. It’s particularly appealing if you’re after a relaxed day on the water with some of the best views the island has to offer.

Key Points

• Private and customizable experience tailored to your group’s preferences
• Stunning locations like Blue Lagoon, Crystal Lagoon, and Cominotto Reef
• Relaxing on a boat with amenities such as sun decks and shaded areas
• Snorkeling gear included, perfect for exploring the clear waters
• Cost-effective, with the whole group paying just over $68
• Be mindful of skipper professionalism and safety considerations

What to Expect from the Comino Private Boat Tour

This tour offers a balanced mix of sightseeing, relaxation, and adventure, making it a solid choice for travelers who want to see Malta from the water without feeling rushed. It’s a roughly one-hour experience, but the stops and activities you choose can extend your time in each spot. The boat is fully equipped with comfort features like a sun deck, shaded canopy, Bluetooth speakers, and WiFi – making it surprisingly comfortable given the short duration.

The cost of $68.23 per group is quite reasonable considering the inclusions: port fees, snorkeling equipment, ice cooler for drinks, and private transportation. The fact that it’s a private experience means you’re not sharing the boat with strangers, allowing for a more personalized and relaxed atmosphere. Plus, since you can select your stops and pace, it’s easy to tailor the day to your interests.

The Itinerary: What You’ll See and Do

Stop 1: Blue Lagoon

The Blue Lagoon is the star of this tour and rightly so. Historically used by the Knights of St. John in the 1500s for leisure, it’s now a bucket-list spot for many visitors. The lagoon’s crystal-clear waters and sandy bottom create the perfect natural pool where you can swim, relax, or just soak in the views. One reviewer called it “a veritable paradise on earth,” which is a pretty accurate way to describe the place. The water is so transparent that it feels like floating in a giant, refreshing bowl of blue.

Swimming here is a highlight, especially because of the sandy bottom and rocky cliffs that surround it, giving a sense of privacy despite the crowds that visit. You’ll have around 20 minutes here, plenty of time to take a dip, snap photos, or simply marvel at the vivid shades of blue.

Stop 2: Crystal Lagoon

Just a short hop from Blue Lagoon, this sheltered spot is similarly breathtaking and can only be accessed by boat, adding an air of exclusivity. The water here features different shades of blue, and it’s often a favorite for cliff jumpers – provided you’re comfortable with that. Once again, around 20 minutes give you enough time to snorkel or relax on the boat’s deck.

Stop 3: Cominotto Reef

This rocky outcrop across the Blue Lagoon features a small sandy area and a cave you can swim through to reach the open sea. It’s a fun spot for adventurous swimmers who enjoy exploring caves and reefs. The reef’s structure adds interest to your snorkeling experience, giving you a chance to see marine life in a more natural setting.

Stop 4: St. Mary’s Tower

Built in 1618 by Grand Master de Wignacourt, this historic tower served as a defense against pirates and a communication link. Exploring the tower is free, and it offers some insight into Malta’s defensive history. It’s a quick stop—about 10 minutes—yet adds a historical touch to your lagoon-filled day.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Onboard amenities make the experience more comfortable: sun decks, shaded canopies, WiFi, Bluetooth speakers, and snorkeling gear. The boat is exclusive to your group, with all port fees and safety equipment covered, so there are no surprises there.

However, skipper guidance costs an extra $40 if you want a professional bilingual skipper, and alcohol, bottled water, food, or snacks are not included. You’ll need to bring your own drinks or plan to purchase onshore if you want to sip something while enjoying the views.

The Real Deal: What Travelers Say

Most reviews praise the breathtaking scenery and the good value for money. One traveler enjoyed the chance to snorkel in the pristine waters and appreciated the flexibility to customize stops. Another highlight was the boat’s comfort and the stunning photos they took.

But not all experiences are perfect. As one review pointed out, they felt a bit unsafe due to what they called a “laid-back” skipper who didn’t seem overly professional. While the majority seem happy, it’s a reminder that safety and professionalism can vary, especially in private tours. If you’re someone who prefers a more structured or guided approach, this is something to keep in mind.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This private boat trip is ideal for small groups or couples who want a personalized day on the water. It’s perfect if you’re after beautiful views, snorkeling opportunities, and a relaxed pace. If you’re comfortable with a more casual skipper and appreciate the freedom to choose your stops, you’ll love this experience.

It’s less suited for travelers who prioritize strict safety standards or who want a guided tour with detailed commentary. Also, if you’re traveling with very young children or need a more family-focused experience, you might want to explore options that offer more structured safety and guidance.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for families?
While the tour is private and small, it’s mainly focused on scenic stops and snorkeling. If your family enjoys water activities and is comfortable on a boat, it can work. However, supervision and safety measures should be considered, especially for younger kids.

How long is the trip?
The core experience lasts about 1 hour, but the stops and activities you choose can extend this. Each main stop is about 10-20 minutes, so plan your expectations accordingly.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers the boat, port fees, snorkeling gear, safety equipment, WiFi, ice cooler, shaded canopy, Bluetooth speakers, and private transportation. Skipper guidance costs extra if you want a bilingual skipper.

Can I bring my own drinks or food?
Since snacks and beverages are not included, you can bring your own drinks to enjoy on the boat. Just be mindful of any restrictions or safety considerations.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is included in the package, allowing you to explore the waters comfortably.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you will be offered an alternative date or a full refund. Cancellations less than 24 hours before the scheduled time are not refundable.

Final Thoughts

The Comino Private Boat Tour offers a great way to experience Malta’s shimmering waters in a relaxed, personalized setting. With beautiful stops like Blue Lagoon and Crystal Lagoon, it’s particularly appealing for those who want to see Malta from the water and enjoy some quality snorkeling. The inclusion of comfort features and the ability to customize your day make it a flexible choice.

That said, it’s worth considering the safety concerns raised by some travelers. If you’re comfortable with a laid-back skipper and are primarily seeking stunning views and private access to Malta’s best lagoons, this tour fits the bill. It’s a good value, especially for small groups looking for an intimate experience.

Overall, if you’re after a scenic, flexible, and memorable boat adventure, this tour is worth exploring. Just keep in mind your comfort with the skipper’s professionalism and safety standards, and plan your day accordingly.

Happy sailing!