If you’re dreaming of exploring Malta’s waters in a truly personalized way, this full-day private boat tour might just be what you’re looking for. It’s designed for groups up to 20 people and takes you on a scenic journey around some of the most breathtaking spots in the Maltese archipelago. From pristine beaches to stunning caves, the experience promises a blend of relaxation, adventure, and cultural sights—all from the comfort of a beautifully renovated traditional luzzu.
What immediately caught our eye are the exclusivity of having the boat just for your group, and the chance to snorkel at multiple iconic spots like the Blue Lagoon and Santa Maria Caves. We also like that there’s a focus on customer satisfaction, with guides eager to share their knowledge and make your trip memorable. On the flip side, the itinerary is quite packed, with a lot of stops and activities, which might mean some spots are skipped if weather or time constraints come into play.
This tour is best suited for travelers who love being on the water, want a flexible plan without hidden costs, and enjoy a mix of sightseeing with some downtime for swimming and relaxing. It’s perfect if you’re traveling in a group, want to avoid the chaos of larger tours, and would appreciate a more intimate, customized experience.
Key Points
- Private group experience ensures a relaxed and personalized day on the water.
- Multiple scenic stops like Blue Lagoon, Santa Maria caves, and Mgarr ix-Xini cater to a variety of interests.
- Snorkeling and water sports are a highlight, with masks, paddles, and even parasailing options available.
- All-inclusive pricing covers most costs with no hidden fees, including onboard drinks and snacks.
- Expert guides with in-depth local knowledge aim to enhance your trip.
- The luxurious yet traditional luzzu boat offers a charming and comfortable setting for the entire day.
The Experience in Depth
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Setting the Scene: A Traditional Luzzu
Once aboard, you’re greeted by a beautifully renovated luzzu, a traditional Maltese fishing boat. These boats are instantly recognizable, with their vibrant colors and distinctive shape, and they’ve become a symbol of Maltese maritime culture. The boat’s recent upgrade ensures a touch of luxury—think comfortable seating, a sound system for music, and onboard amenities like a restroom and freshwater shower.
Having a private boat means your group has the freedom to relax without feeling crammed in or rushed, and the crew is dedicated to making your day special. The boat is 12 meters long, providing ample space for lounging, snorkeling, and socializing, with a bar serving drinks, snacks, and ice-creams throughout the day.
A Well-Planned Itinerary
The tour covers a full 7 hours, and the stops are carefully chosen to showcase Malta’s best coastal features:
- Start at your pickup point, either Cirkewwa or Mgarr, where you’ll board your boat and kick-off your Malta adventure.
- The first sightseeing cruise offers a quick 10-minute cruise to warm up, giving you a taste of the sea and the scenic coastline.
- Next, you’ll reach Crystal Lagoon, a favorite for swimming, snorkeling, and cliff jumping. It’s a fantastic spot for water lovers, with caves underneath Saint Mary’s Tower and a petite sandy beach.
- The Blue Lagoon is arguably the star of the show. Here, you’ll enjoy an hour of swimming, snorkeling, and soaking in the scenery. The calm, clear waters make it ideal for relaxing or trying out parasailing if you’re feeling adventurous.
- Following that, the tour takes you to Santa Maria Bay for more swimming, ideal for families or those seeking a quieter spot.
- The Santa Maria Caves are the highlight for cave enthusiasts. You can swim through a natural cave, and inside, there’s a pond perfect for a refreshing swim. Plus, you get a chance to see the famous Elephants Head shape in the rocks.
- Additional stops like Mgarr ix-Xini and Popeye Village add variety—offering scenic bays, snorkeling opportunities, and unique photo ops.
Throughout the day, guides share their local insights—not just pointing out sights but explaining their significance, history, and fun facts. Multiple reviews mention guides as being very knowledgeable and eager to personalize the experience.
Snorkeling, Water Sports & Relaxation
Snorkeling is a big part of this tour. Masks are provided, and spots like the Blue Lagoon and San Niklaw are praised for their crystal-clear waters. One reviewer mentioned that the water is so clear you feel like you’re swimming in a giant aquarium. For the more energetic, options like parasailing and paddleboarding are available, adding extra fun.
You’ll also enjoy a bevy of refreshments: local appetizers, soft drinks, ice-creams, and alcoholic beverages. This combination of good food, drinks, and beautiful scenery makes the day feel indulgent without breaking the bank.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Pros and Cons
Many travelers emphasize the quality of the guides and the boat’s comfort. The fact that you own the boat for the day makes this feel like a true private experience—perfect for celebrating a special occasion or just enjoying a peaceful day with friends or family.
However, the itinerary is ambitious and involves multiple stops, some of which are quite brief. Weather can also influence the route—skippers may deviate from planned spots to ensure safety, which is understandable but might be disappointing if you had your heart set on a specific location. Also, Popeye Village and Ghadira Bay are only visited if requested, so if these are your priority, you should communicate beforehand.
What’s the Value?
At $715 for up to 20 people, the cost breaks down to roughly $36 per person, which is quite reasonable considering the private nature and inclusiveness of amenities. When you factor in the personalized experience, flexibility, and the chance to snorkel at iconic sites, this tour offers good value for those who want more than a generic group cruise.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This experience suits groups seeking exclusivity, comfort, and a flexible schedule. It’s perfect for travelers who love water activities, want to avoid crowded tours, and appreciate having the freedom to tailor their day. It’s also well-suited to groups of friends, couples, or small families who enjoy spending the day exploring at their own pace.
If you’re into snorkeling, scenic views, and local culture, you’ll find plenty to love here. But if you prefer a more relaxed, less activity-packed day, some of the stops might feel rushed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a fully private tour?
Yes, the boat is yours exclusively for the day, for up to 20 people.
How long is the tour?
The scheduled duration is 7 hours, with starting times varying—check availability for exact times.
What’s included in the price?
The price covers the boat, skipper, snorkeling masks, onboard bar with drinks and snacks, restroom, freshwater shower, paddleboards, and a sound system.
Are food and drinks included?
Yes, local appetizers, soft drinks, ice-creams, and alcoholic beverages are provided onboard.
Can I customize the itinerary?
While the main stops are fixed, Popeye Village and Ghadira Bay are only visited upon request, so you can ask about adding these.
What should I bring?
Bring your swimwear, towels, sun protection, and a camera. Water shoes are optional but might be handy for caves and rocky spots.
Is this experience suitable for children?
It’s not specifically marketed as family-friendly, but the stops at beaches and calm waters might appeal to kids. Always consider your children’s swimming ability and comfort with boat travel.
What happens if the weather is bad?
The skipper may change the route or cancel certain stops if weather conditions are adverse, prioritizing safety.
What’s the refund policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which adds some flexibility to your plans.
How do I book?
You can reserve now and pay later, providing flexibility if your plans change.
Full day private charter around Comino, Gozo & Malta
Final Thoughts
This full-day private charter offers a fantastic way to experience Malta’s coast with all the comforts of a personalized trip. The combination of scenic stops, water activities, and onboard amenities makes it ideal for groups who want to enjoy the sea with minimal fuss. The knowledgeable guide and the charming luzzu add a touch of Maltese culture that you won’t find on larger, more generic tours.
While the schedule is quite packed, the flexibility and exclusivity make it well worth considering. It’s especially suited for travelers looking for a memorable, intimate day out with friends, family, or a special someone.
If you value comfort, privacy, and a mix of adventure and relaxation, this tour could become one of your Malta highlights.
Enjoy your Maltese adventure—hope you have a fantastic day on the water!
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