Gozo: Private Boat Tour to Comino with Swim Stops

Exploring Comino with a Private Boat Tour from Gozo: An Honest Look

If you’re thinking about a boat trip around Malta’s smaller islands, a private tour from Gozo to Comino might just be what you’re after. This experience promises a personalized way to see some of the most iconic sights, with stops for swimming and exploring caves along the way. While I haven’t taken this exact trip myself, I’ve gathered plenty of details to help you decide if it fits your travel style.

What I really like about this tour is the chance to skip the crowds and enjoy a more exclusive, relaxed experience. Plus, the variety of stops—from the famous Blue Lagoon to hidden caves—means you’ll get both the postcard-perfect views and some quieter moments. That said, a potential consideration is the 3-hour duration—it’s a fairly quick trip, so if you’re after a deep-dive into the area’s history or a longer day on the water, you might want to look at other options.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a flexible, intimate experience with scenic boat rides and swimming in clear waters. It’s also good if you’re traveling with a group that appreciates privacy and personalized service. If you love nature, stunning coastlines, and a chance to snorkel in pristine spots, this could be a good pick.

Key Points

• Private and personalized experience tailored to your group’s preferences.
• Swim stops at the Blue Lagoon, Crystal Lagoon, and caves offer refreshing ways to cool down.
• Scenic views include historic forts, sea caves, Elephant Rock, and more.
• Convenient and flexible 3-hour tour, with the option to choose your swim and sightseeing spots.
• All equipment, including snorkeling gear and safety gear, is provided for a worry-free adventure.
• Ideal for those seeking a relaxed, intimate outing without the crowds.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Tour

This 3-hour private boat trip starts from Mgarr Harbour in Gozo, a lively place perfect for setting out on the water. From the get-go, you’re in good hands with an experienced licensed skipper who’ll guide you through the highlights and keep the atmosphere relaxed. What’s nice here is the focus on a personalized experience—the boat is exclusively yours, meaning you can tailor the stops based on what you want to see and do.

The first part of your trip involves a quick cruise past the historic Santa Marija Tower, which is perched high on the cliffs. It’s a great photo opportunity and a window into Malta’s defensive past. Soon after, you’ll head toward the Crystal Lagoon, a stunning spot framed by steep cliffs. Here, you’ll have plenty of time—about 40 minutes—to swim, snorkel, or just relax by the water while soaking in the views.

Next, the boat makes its way to Cominotto, the tiny uninhabited islet that helps form the Blue Lagoon. This stop is usually the highlight for most visitors, thanks to the crystalline waters and white sands. It’s an iconic Maltese scene and a perfect place to snap some photos or take a quick dip.

The Blue Lagoon itself is usually the busiest stop, but with a private boat, you can enjoy the calm and beauty without the crowds. The water here is famously clear, and the sand seabed makes it ideal for swimming and snorkeling.

After the Blue Lagoon, you’ll cruise around to quieter spots like San Niklaw Bay and Santa Marija Bay, both offering calmer waters and scenic surroundings. These are perfect for a peaceful swim or simply enjoying the serenity of the Maltese coast.

The tour also includes a scenic drive past the network of sea caves, carved into the cliffs. Some of the caves are accessible for close-up views, and you’ll get to see Elephant Rock, an arch that looks like an elephant dipping its trunk into the sea. These formations add a dramatic touch to the landscape, making the cruise visually compelling.

Throughout, the skipper might point out historical landmarks such as the Santa Marija Battery from the 18th century, adding a touch of Maltese history to your scenic ride.

The Itinerary in Detail

The route is thoughtfully planned to maximize your time at the most beautiful spots. It begins at Mgarr Harbour and then swiftly moves to the Santa Marija Tower for a quick photo and overview of the coast. This scenic drive gives you a glimpse of Malta’s strategic past and offers some great vantage points.

Next up is the Crystal Lagoon, which is usually the longest stop—about 40 minutes—giving you plenty of time to swim, snorkel, or just relax on the boat. The lagoon’s steep cliffs and clear waters make it feel like a secret paradise, and reviews mention it’s a “hidden gem” that’s often less crowded than the Blue Lagoon.

From there, your boat will head towards Cominotto, a small, uninhabited islet that’s part of the Blue Lagoon area. This is another favorite for its unspoiled natural beauty. The Blue Lagoon itself is the crown jewel—almost everyone gushes over the stunning turquoise waters and sandy seabed, perfect for swimming and capturing those postcard-worthy shots.

The subsequent stops are more tranquil: San Niklaw Bay and Santa Marija Bay. These are quieter beaches that offer a more relaxed feel, especially if you’re after a peaceful swim or a moment of quiet away from the busier spots.

One of the truly special features of this tour is the opportunity to see and explore sea caves, which have been naturally sculpted into the cliffs. A visit to Elephant Rock is particularly fun, as it resembles an elephant dipping its trunk into the sea—a quirky, memorable photo op.

The final part of the trip involves passing by the Santa Marija Battery and other scenic points, finishing up with a smooth cruise back to Mgarr Harbour, where your adventure began.

What Travelers Are Saying

Many reviews highlight the stunning views and the value of having a private, tailored experience. One reviewer said, “We loved the way the skipper took us to the lesser-known caves and quiet bays—felt like having our own yacht.” Others appreciated the flexibility, noting they could spend more time swimming at their favorite spots or exploring the caves at leisure.

Some mention that the Blue Lagoon can get crowded during peak season, but with a private boat, you can avoid the crowds and enjoy the water in peace. As one traveler put it, “Having the boat all to ourselves made a huge difference—no fighting for space, just pure relaxation.”

The snorkeling gear provided was a hit among many, allowing people to make the most of the clear waters. Reviewers also appreciated the safety gear and the professional manner of the skipper, who added some entertaining commentary and historical tidbits along the way.

However, some comment on the duration—3 hours might feel a little quick if you’re craving a full day out. Still, most found it a good length, especially considering the logistics and the focus on quality over quantity.

Practical Details and Why They Matter

The tour lasts exactly 3 hours, which is enough time to visit multiple stops without feeling rushed. The private nature of the trip ensures your group has the vessel solely for yourselves, making the experience more intimate and flexible. The boat is equipped with a music system, snorkel gear, and safety equipment—adding comfort and fun to your cruise.

Pricing-wise, it’s a mid-range option considering the exclusivity and personalized service. For the cost, you’re paying for the luxury of privacy, the convenience of a tailored route, and the ability to avoid crowded spots. If you’re traveling with friends or a small family, the value is quite good.

The tour includes fuel, so there are no hidden extras—just show up with your swimwear, sunscreen, and a camera. It’s wheelchair accessible, making it more inclusive for travelers with mobility needs, which is a thoughtful touch.

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Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re after an intimate, flexible way to explore the highlights of Comino and surrounding waters, this tour is a solid choice. It’s especially suited for small groups, couples, or friends who want to avoid large tours and enjoy personalized service. Snorkelers and nature lovers will appreciate the stops at caves and lagoons, which offer great opportunities for underwater photography.

However, if you’re looking for a comprehensive, full-day excursion or historical tours that go deep into Malta’s past, this might not cover everything. It’s more about the scenery, swimming, and enjoying a private ride—with a dash of adventure.

Final Thoughts

This private boat tour from Gozo to Comino offers a relaxed, scenic, and customizable way to experience some of Malta’s most iconic spots. The quiet bays, stunning caves, and crystal-clear waters make it a memorable outing, especially if you prefer avoiding crowds and having your own space.

While the 3-hour duration might seem brief for some, it’s enough time to hit all the major highlights without feeling rushed. The flexibility to choose where to stop and the private nature of the tour elevate it from a typical sightseeing cruise.

In terms of value, it’s a well-priced option for travelers who want an exclusive experience, great photos, and a chance to swim in some of Malta’s most beautiful spots. It’s particularly suitable for small groups or couples who prioritize comfort and flexibility.

If you love natural scenery, crystal waters, and a more personal approach to island-hopping, this tour could be a highlight of your Malta trip.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 16 need to be accompanied by an adult, and since it’s a private group, you can decide if the timing and stops work well for your family.

How long is the trip?
The tour lasts about 3 hours, which balances enough sightseeing with time for swimming and relaxing.

What should I bring?
Swimwear, a towel, camera, snacks, drinks, and sunscreen are recommended to make the most of your time on the water.

Are there specific stops for swimming?
Yes, swimming and snorkeling are available at the Blue Lagoon, Crystal Lagoon, and caves, with the onboard gear provided.

Is the boat accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it accommodating for all travelers.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your plans shift.

This private boat trip from Gozo to Comino makes for a lovely, flexible way to enjoy Malta’s waters and scenic spots. If you’re looking for a serene, customizable experience with plenty of chances to swim and marvel at nature’s handiwork, it’s worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: