Malta: Comino Island Private Boat

A 2-hour private boat can feel like a reset. With a private boat and Blue Lagoon swimming time as your first stop, I like the mix of big sights and real comfort on the water. The only drawback is weather, when the sea gets rough, your skipper may cut back on swim time for safety.

I also like that the route hits several standout spots in one smooth loop, including Crystal Lagoon, Cominotto Island, the Roofless Cave (L-Għar ta’ Bla Saqaf), and Lovers Cave. You get proper gear too, with snorkeling equipment and a shaded sun deck so you can switch from sightseeing to lounging without fuss.

For value, this works best when you share the boat cost up to 6 people, since it is priced per boat, not per passenger. Just budget for the experienced skipper fee and fuel costs, and aim to arrive about 30 minutes early at Cirkewwa or Mgarr so the timing stays smooth.

Key takeaways before you book

• Private boat for up to 6, so you steer your pace and avoid crowding
• Blue Lagoon and Crystal Lagoon swim stops, built around clear water and easy snorkeling
• Roofless Cave and Lovers Cave by boat, with time to look up close at the rock formations
• Comfort on board: shaded canopy, cozy seating, and an ice cooler for drinks you bring or arrange
• Added fun: Bluetooth speaker for your own music and Wi-Fi on board
• Route flexibility based on tides and sea conditions, so the skipper can keep it safe and enjoyable

How the 2-hour Comino loop actually plays out

This is a short charter, designed like a best-of Comino sprint. You are on the water long enough to feel relaxed, but not so long that you lose the day to travel and logistics. The pacing matters here, because Comino is at its most fun when you can hop in, swim, and then move on while the light is still good.

The big idea is simple: your skipper uses a smart route through Comino and the nearby Cominotto area, with a mix of swim time and cave viewpoints. You also get repeated chances to enjoy the water, not just one quick stop.

And one thing I really like about the vibe of this kind of private charter is that the boat becomes your base. Instead of waiting for a crowded schedule, you can stop where the water is best, then regroup under the canopy.

Starting points, meeting times, and why 30 minutes early matters

You have two pick-up options, depending on whether you start on Malta or Gozo. If you start from Gozo, the meeting point is near Sicilia Bella Restaurant at the Mgarr Harbour Terminal. If you start from Malta, you meet by the kiosk at the Gozo Channel Terminal in Cirkewwa.

Because this is a boat charter, your timing affects everything. Arrive 30 minutes early to handle parking, foot traffic, and check-in, and to avoid a late departure. Being punctual matters because late arrivals do not automatically extend the charter time.

There is also a separate entrance for boarding, which can help reduce waiting. In real terms, that means you spend more of your 2 hours on the water, not in line.

Blue Lagoon and Crystal Lagoon, where your swim time is the main event

Your tour begins at the Blue Lagoon, which is the headline spot for a reason. Expect turquoise water that looks almost unreal from the boat, and a setting that is built for swimming and snorkeling. This is where you first feel the advantage of a private boat, because you are not fighting for space around the shore.

From there, you cruise toward the Crystal Lagoon. This area is known for its vivid blue hues and sheltered feel, which makes it ideal when you want an easier water entry. If you like snorkeling, this is typically where you get the best chance to see the water clearly for mask-and-snorkel exploring.

The practical benefit of having two lagoon stops is that conditions can vary. If the first area is crowded or your group wants a calmer swim, you still have another lagoon to work with in the same 2-hour window.

Cominotto Island, your chance to see a calmer side of the area

Cominotto Island is the part of the route that feels like a breather from the busiest zones. You do not just pass by at high speed. You get time to appreciate the coastline from the water and enjoy the scenery without the same frantic pace you see elsewhere around peak times.

I like this stop because it changes the tone of the trip. One minute you are focused on the water color and your swim gear, and the next minute you are looking at a quieter stretch of Maltese coast with a lot less pressure.

If your group loves photos, this is also a strong moment for them. Even without a long stop, the perspective from a boat makes the views feel different than a shore viewpoint.

Roofless Cave and Lovers Cave, plus Pigeon Rock sightings from the water

The caves are the main sightseeing payoff, and they come with real visual drama. The Roofless Cave (L-Għar ta’ Bla Saqaf) is famous for its natural rock shapes, and seeing it from the sea makes the structure feel bigger and more sculpted. If you enjoy geology and dramatic coastline features, this is one of the stops that justifies booking a boat rather than a land tour.

Then you head to Lovers Cave by boat. This is the romantic and secluded-feeling moment, where the water and rock combine for a quieter pause on the itinerary. You do not need a long explanation to appreciate it, because the setting does most of the work.

On top of that, your route includes passing Pigeon Rock and other sea caves along the way. Even when you do not get out of the boat, the slow passing gives you time to look, point, and take in the coastline.

On-board comfort: canopy shade, snorkeling gear, Wi-Fi, and music

This charter is built for comfort, not just transport. You get a private boat setup with cozy seating, plus a shaded sundeck with a canopy to cool down when the sun turns strong. In Malta in summer, that shade matters more than you think, especially after you have been in the water and then need to warm back up.

Snorkeling gear is provided, including mask and snorkel. That is a big plus if you do not want to bring your own setup. It also makes it easier to keep the group moving, since everyone can grab gear quickly and get back in the water.

For convenience, there is an ice cooler for drinks, and an onboard Bluetooth speaker if your group wants music. Wi-Fi is also available, which can be handy for sharing your photos while you are still on the tour.

Safety equipment is included too, so you should feel comfortable settling into the ride. I always see this as part of the value, because it lets you focus on the water instead of worrying about basics.

Price and value for a group of up to 6

The headline price is listed as $86 per group up to 6 for a 2-hour private boat experience. But you should know that the skipper fee (€54) and fuel costs (€54) are listed as separate add-ons. In other words, the final cost is per boat, not per person, and the extra fees cover the people and the fuel that make the charter possible.

How does that translate into value? For smaller groups, you feel the skipper and fuel cost more. For fuller boats up to 6, your per-person share drops, and the private format starts to look very fair compared with paying for individual seat tickets on crowded boats.

This is also one of those tours where the included extras help justify the price. Lagoon access permits, port and marina charges, taxes, snorkeling gear, and Wi-Fi are all covered. You are not paying separately for the permit side of things, which adds friction on many other day trips.

The one cost area you still control is what you eat and drink. Food and beverages are not included, so if you want snacks, plan accordingly with your own arrangements before you step on board.

When the skipper adapts your route (and why that is not a bad thing)

A private skipper gives you flexibility, but that flexibility depends on the sea. The operator notes that the skipper can change the route or departure/disembarkation points due to weather, tides, and other valid reasons. They also have discretion to cancel, reschedule, or alter the charter when conditions require it.

I actually like this approach, because rough water is not something you can outsmart. When seas get choppy, the priority shifts to a smooth, safe plan. That can mean less swimming, but it usually means you still get a good tour and the most important viewpoints.

In past experiences, captains like Joe and Mario have been praised for keeping the mood relaxed and for giving explanations while you cruise. Having a friendly, communicative skipper matters more on a short 2-hour trip than people expect, because every minute counts.

What to bring so your swim stops feel easy

You do not need to pack a lot, but a few items will make the experience smoother. Bring a hat, swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen. Cash is also listed, so it is smart to have some on hand.

Also think about your personal comfort. You will be switching between sun and shade under the canopy, so sunscreen is worth the extra minute. For the water part, your swimwear and towel are non-negotiable.

If you plan to use the snorkeling gear, keep in mind that your comfort on mask-and-snorkel time will depend on fit. If your group has members who have not snorkeled much before, a quick trial helps.

Who this private Comino boat charter suits best

This charter is a strong match for people who want Comino’s highlights without the hassle of crowds and tight group schedules. If you are traveling with family, a couple, or a small group of friends, the private format makes it easier to sync with different comfort levels for swimming.

It is also a good pick if you care about comfort details. The canopy shade, provided snorkeling gear, and onboard Wi-Fi and music make the boat feel like a small floating lounge. For groups that want photos and caves, the boat perspective does a lot of the work.

If your group is very weather-dependent, keep expectations flexible. The route is designed for swimming and snorkeling, but sea conditions can change what is practical in the moment.

Should you book this Comino Island Private Boat?

Book it if you want a short, focused charter with comfort and clear water time as the payoff. The best reasons to choose it are the private boat setup, the snorkeling gear, and the way the itinerary stacks Blue Lagoon, Crystal Lagoon, cave viewpoints, and a Cominotto Island stop in just 2 hours.

Skip it or reconsider if your group is set on long swim time no matter what. Weather can shift priorities quickly, and the skipper has discretion to alter the plan for safety.

If you are deciding between this and a bigger group cruise, this one wins when you value control, shade, and the ability to pause where the water feels best. And if you can fill most of the boat with up to 6 people, it becomes one of the more sensible ways to enjoy Comino’s main sights in a private, relaxed way.

FAQ

How long is the Comino Island Private Boat tour?

The experience runs for 2 hours.

What is the group size limit?

It is a private group with up to 6 people per boat.

Where do we meet for the boat?

You can meet at Mgarr Harbour Terminal near Sicilia Bella Restaurant in Gozo, or at the Gozo Channel Terminal in Cirkewwa by the kiosk.

What is included on board?

The tour includes a private boat, cozy seating, a shaded canopy, safety gear, snorkeling gear (mask and snorkel), an ice cooler for beverages, a Bluetooth speaker, free Wi-Fi access, and lagoon access permits plus port and marina charges and taxes.

Is the skipper included in the price?

No. An experienced skipper fee (€54) is listed separately, along with fuel costs (€54).

Are food and drinks included?

Food and beverages are not included, even though there is an ice cooler on board.

What should I bring?

Bring a hat, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and cash.

Can the skipper change the plan due to sea conditions?

Yes. The skipper can alter the route or departure points based on weather, tides, and other valid reasons, and may cancel or reschedule if conditions require it.