Malta: Guided SUP Tour

If you’re looking for a way to see Malta from a different perspective, a guided stand-up paddleboard (SUP) tour might just be what you need. It’s a relaxed yet active experience that combines light exercise with plenty of opportunities to take in the island’s natural beauty. Whether you’re a first-timer or someone who’s paddled before, this tour offers a chance to explore Malta’s coast in a safe, friendly environment.

What we love about this experience is how it balances simple, beginner-friendly instruction with access to some truly spectacular spots. You’ll get to discover hidden caves, secluded beaches, and dramatic cliffs, all from the water. The guides are praised for their knowledge and patience, making it a great choice for those new to SUP or even those more experienced who want a scenic outing. On the downside, the tour’s 1.5-hour duration might feel short for those wanting a longer adventure, but it’s perfect for a quick, scenic escape.

This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy outdoor activities and are comfortable in the water. It’s an excellent option for groups, friends, or families (especially with kids aged 8-12), looking for something relaxed yet exciting. Keep in mind, it’s not designed for those over 70 or people with certain mobility issues, but for most others, it’s a fun introduction to Malta’s coast.

Key Points

• Beginner-friendly: Perfect for first-timers with clear instructions and safety gear provided.
• Stunning spots: Explore caves, hidden beaches, and cliffs only accessible from the water.
• Flexible routes: Customize your paddle along the coast, following your own route.
• Knowledgeable guides: Friendly, patient guides enhance the experience with local insights.
• Affordable value: At $40, it offers a great mix of scenery, activity, and expert guidance.
• Duration & group size: 1.5 hours in small groups (up to 15) for a more personal experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Malta SUP Tour

If you’re thinking about trying out stand-up paddleboarding for the first time, or even if you’re a seasoned paddler, this tour offers a nice combination of beginner-friendly instruction and access to Malta’s less-traveled coastlines. The price point of $40 per person makes it accessible, especially considering everything that’s included — boards, paddles, life jackets, and a knowledgeable guide. It’s a good value for the experience, which often includes some memorable scenery.

What the Tour Looks Like From Start to Finish

The meeting point is Sensi Watersports in St Thomas Bay, right under Sensi Lido. This is a straightforward location, with activity flags marking the spot. Arriving about 20 minutes early for the safety briefing is recommended, so you’re not rushing and can get comfortable with the equipment and instructions.

Once everyone is geared up, your guide—like the highly praised Nani—will go over safety procedures, basic paddling techniques, and how to stay balanced. This is key for those new to SUP, and the guides’ patience really shines through in reviews, making even beginners feel confident on the water.

What You’ll See and Do During the Tour

The highlight of the experience is exploring Malta’s coast from the water, which unlocks access to hidden gems. Your guide will help you navigate around famous spots like sea caves and rock formations, while also allowing you to chart your own route along the coastline.

You might paddle past the striking cliffs of the south, stopping at secret beaches or peering into narrow caves. One awe-inspiring feature mentioned in reviews is the smugglers cave, a narrow passage that widens out as you enter—an exciting highlight for many paddlers. The opportunity to float close to these natural sculptures makes this tour much more than just a paddle session.

The Experience and Scenic Value

Participants describe the experience as “incredible,” with the guides taking the time to ensure everyone is comfortable and safe. The sense of connection with nature is palpable, especially when exploring caves, where the silence is broken only by the gentle splash of paddles.

The views along Malta’s south coast are often described as “magnificent,” with rocky arches, cliffs, and hidden coves. Several reviews mention how these spots feel almost secret, as if you’re discovering a private corner of Malta only accessible from the water.

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Group Dynamics and Personalization

One of the tour’s strengths is its small group size, limited to 15 participants. This ensures personalized attention from guides like Alamir, who are praised for their friendly, informative approach. You’re encouraged to follow your own route, giving you some freedom to explore at your own pace or linger at favorite spots.

Practical Considerations and What’s Not Included

The tour is quite straightforward: all safety equipment is provided, including boards, paddles, and life jackets, so you only need to bring your enthusiasm. Food and drinks aren’t included, so plan to grab a bite before or after the tour if needed.

It’s worth noting that the activity isn’t suitable for those over 70 or people with certain mobility restrictions, but otherwise, most adventurers should find it accessible. The activity lasts around 1.5 hours, which is a perfect window for a quick, scenic paddle without feeling exhausted.

Authentic Voices: What Participants Say

Multiple reviews underline the quality of guides like Nani and Alamir. One reviewer said, “Nani is the best! The cave where we rowed prone was magnificent,” highlighting how special the natural sites are. Another shared, “My instructor Nani was very patient with me, teaching me how to stay balanced on the board,” emphasizing how accessible the tour is for beginners.

A different participant praised Alamir: “Our time on the SUP was incredible. Alamir was amazing taking the time to go over safety and letting us explore caves and rock formations,” which echoes the overall sentiment that the guides make the experience both safe and memorable.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

It’s not just about paddling—it’s about discovering Malta’s coast from a new angle, with guides who genuinely care about your experience. For many, the highlight is the chance to see hidden caves and beaches that are otherwise off-limits or hard to access.

Potential Downsides

The main consideration is the duration—1.5 hours might feel short if you’re craving a longer adventure. Also, since the tour is only suitable for those who are comfortable in water, it’s not ideal for everyone with mobility concerns or very young children. However, if you’re after a relaxed, scenic activity and don’t mind a shorter session, this suits most travelers well.

Who Should Consider This SUP Tour?

This tour is best for active travelers who want a gentle but scenic water activity. It’s perfect for first-timers looking to try SUP in a safe environment, as well as those who enjoy discovering new places from the water. If you’re traveling with friends or family (with children aged 8-12), it can be a fun group outing.

It’s also a great option if you’re after a budget-friendly, memorable experience that combines light exercise with stunning natural scenery. Just remember, if you’re over 70 or have mobility issues, you might want to consider other options.

FAQs About the Malta Guided SUP Tour

Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, it’s specifically described as beginner-friendly, with safety equipment and instructions provided. Many reviews mention first-timers successfully paddling and enjoying the experience.

What is included in the price?
All safety equipment—paddleboards, paddles, and life jackets—as well as instructions and a knowledgeable guide are included. You only need to bring your enthusiasm.

How long does the tour last?
The activity lasts approximately 1.5 hours, making it a perfect short adventure without being overly tiring.

Where do we meet for the tour?
At Sensi Watersports in St Thomas Bay, under Sensi Lido. Follow the activity provider’s flags to the meeting point.

Can I customize my route?
Yes, the guides encourage you to follow your own route along the coast, exploring local beaches and caves at your own pace.

Is food or drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so plan accordingly before or after your paddle.

Are children allowed on the tour?
Yes, there’s a shorter tour suitable for children aged 8 to 12, combined with adults, making it family-friendly for that age group.

What should I bring?
Wear appropriate swimwear, bring sunscreen, and arrive 20 minutes early for briefing and instructions.

Is the tour suitable for people over 70?
No, it’s not recommended for those over 70 years old.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a relaxed yet adventure-filled way to see Malta’s coastline, this SUP tour offers an authentic experience. It’s well-suited for beginners and groups wanting a safe, guided introduction to paddleboarding while discovering caves and hidden beaches. The guides’ friendliness and local knowledge shine through, making the day both informative and enjoyable.

While the short duration might leave some wanting more, it’s a highly-rated option for those who appreciate scenic water-based activities with a personal touch. The price is reasonable for what’s included, and the small group size ensures personalized attention. Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or family (with kids), this tour can be a memorable highlight of your Malta trip.

In a nutshell, this SUP tour is a gentle, scenic exploration that balances ease and adventure, perfect for those new to paddleboarding or anyone looking to see Malta’s coast from an entirely new perspective. If the idea of gliding past caves and along cliffs excites you, it’s worth considering. Just remember to arrive early, bring sun protection, and get ready for a fun splash of Malta’s natural beauty.

You can check availability for your dates here: