Comino looks different from your own boat. This private charter gets you out to Blue Lagoon and Crystal Lagoon with your own skipper, plus a taste of Gozo, away from ferry crowds. It’s 3 hours of lagoon time, snorkeling, and scenic cruising with comfort built in.

I love the swimming-and-snorkeling rhythm here: you get anchored time in clear water spots around Comino, not a hurried stop. Crystal Lagoon in particular is the kind of water that makes you want to stay longer, snorkel longer, and take more photos than you planned. I also love the practical comfort details: shade on board, life vests, and an ice cooler so you can keep your drinks chilled.

One consideration: fuel is not included. You’ll need to pay €79 fuel to the skipper after the tour, and the trip is still subject to weather.

Key things to know before you go

• Private charter for up to 7 people, priced per boat (not per person)
• Comino’s Blue Lagoon + Crystal Lagoon with lagoon permits included
• Gozo southern shores and caves mixed into the same 3-hour route
• Bluetooth audio and onboard shade for a more relaxed ride
• Snorkel gear and life vests included so you can get in the water fast
• Fuel is extra (€79), paid directly to the skipper on the day

Private Boat Time on Comino and Gozo: The real value

If your main goal is water time, this is a smart way to do Malta. The big public boats are fun, but they run on a schedule and a crowd vibe. A private boat charter shifts the day toward your pace: swim when you want, snorkel where the skipper thinks the visibility is best, then hang out on board between stops.

This trip also pairs three different “moods” in one outing. You get Comino lagoon colors (Blue Lagoon and Crystal Lagoon), you get coastline variety (coves, caves, and beaches), and you get a quieter slice of Gozo’s southern shores. That mix matters. It keeps the day from feeling like one long photo stop.

The other big value is comfort without going full luxury-yacht. You don’t just get a ride. You get shade, cushioned seating, life vests, snorkel gear, and an ice cooler. You can travel light and still feel taken care of.

Where you meet: Cirkewwa kiosk vs Mgarr port

Your tour starts at the marina, and you can choose whether you begin in Cirkewwa (Malta) or Mgarr (Gozo). In Malta, the meeting point is next to the Cirkewwa kiosk. In Gozo, it’s the Mgarr port area.

No hotel pickup is included, so plan on handling your own ride to the marina. The good news is that free parking is included at the meeting point, which helps if you’re driving in that day’s area.

If you’re staying in Malta and you want the simplest logistics, Cirkewwa is the classic choice. If you’re already based in Gozo and want to skip the ferry choreography, starting in Mgarr can make the whole day feel more effortless.

Getting aboard: shade, Bluetooth, and a skipper who sets the tone

From the moment you meet your skipper, the experience is built around you spending less time “figuring it out” and more time enjoying the water. You’ll board at the marina, get settled on cushioned seating (with shade), and cruise over shimmering water while your playlist plays through the Bluetooth audio system.

That soundtrack detail isn’t just a nice extra. It changes the feel of the ride from transport to part of the fun. If you’re traveling as a couple, it’s an easy romantic touch. If you’re a group, it keeps everyone relaxed while the boat heads out.

Most importantly, you’re not locked into one rigid route. On a private charter, you’re effectively captain of the day. You can choose spots you want to spend more time on, or let your skipper share their favorites and local favorites for sea caves and swimming areas.

Comino first: Crystal Lagoon snorkeling and swim time

Comino’s Crystal Lagoon is the kind of place where it’s hard to keep your plans realistic. The water clarity is the star, and the boat tour format is what makes it usable. You’re not trying to squeeze into a crowded public swim area and you’re not stuck waiting behind other groups.

This is also where the tour’s snorkeling setup matters. Snorkel and mask are included, and life vests are provided. That means you can get in quickly, test the water, then decide whether you want a slow look or longer swims.

A key practical point: with only 3 hours total, the time you spend in the water is precious. The best move is to treat each stop like a mini experience—swim, snorkel for a bit, then decide if you want to extend that mood or move on.

If you’re the type who wants to stay active, this is your chance. If you’re more of a float-and-watch person, anchor time also works well for just relaxing, taking pictures, and enjoying that bright lagoon color.

Blue Lagoon and Comino caves: how to avoid the crowd feel

The Blue Lagoon is famous for a reason. Even when you’ve seen photos, seeing it from the water hits differently. The big advantage of this charter is that you aim for the same coastline magic without the same packed feeling.

Your skipper navigates and anchors in the bluest areas away from the busiest spots. Depending on the conditions and the day, you may also cruise past or into areas with caves and coastline features. Some skippers have been known to take their group into cave areas and toward rock formations, which adds variety beyond swimming alone.

This is also a great spot for photos, but it’s better if you treat it as a water-first stop. In bright midday sun, everyone starts chasing the same perfect angles. A private boat lets you take the moments you want, then get back to the water before the crowd energy becomes the main event.

If you can influence timing, starting earlier in the day can be a smart play. Multiple skippers and guide styles in this area recommend morning departures as a way to dodge harsher sun and heavier boat traffic.

Gozo southern shores: caves, coves, and quieter coastline views

One of the coolest parts of this itinerary is that it doesn’t stop at Comino. You also get parts of Gozo, specifically the southern coastline style: quieter stretches, tranquil bays, and sea caves along the route.

This is where the tour feels less like a single landmark visit and more like a coastal tour. You see different coastal shapes and rock formations, and you get the sense of the islands as real places—not just a single Instagram stop.

Your skipper also adds context while you’re sailing. You can expect historical insights and fun facts about the Maltese archipelago along the way. In past days, skippers with names like Justin, Jimmy, and Luca have been praised for mixing route storytelling with practical guidance that helps you enjoy the stops without feeling lost.

If your group includes different water comfort levels, Gozo’s quieter bays can be a nice middle ground. Some people love full snorkeling time, while others prefer a slower swim. Having multiple coastal moods makes it easier to meet everyone halfway.

The onboard extras that make the 3 hours feel longer

This tour is short on purpose: 3 hours is enough time to hit the best water while still feeling like a “half-day win.” The trick is making those hours feel comfortable and unhurried. The boat setup here helps.

Here’s what you’re getting on board:

• Shade and cushioned seating so the ride doesn’t feel like full sun exposure
• A Bluetooth audio system so you can bring the vibe
• Complimentary life vests and snorkel masks
• An ice cooler and ice for keeping drinks cold
• Facilities for swimming entry that many groups find easy for getting in and out quickly

And yes, food and drinks are not included, but you can absolutely bring your own. The ice cooler is there for a reason, and it’s one of the details that turns the day into a real day out instead of a quick excursion.

One more small but meaningful comfort detail: you’re not juggling ticket lines. This activity includes a skip-the-ticket-line style flow, which matters when you’re trying to get on the water without delays.

Price and value: $293 per group up to 7, plus fuel

The price is $293 per group (up to 7), and it’s per boat rather than per person. That matters a lot for value.

For a big group, this can come out surprisingly reasonable because you’re splitting the boat cost across more people. For a couple, it’s still worthwhile if you’re chasing a specific outcome: private access to Comino’s best water, flexible stop time, and the comfort details like snorkel gear and the ice cooler.

Then add the key extra cost: €79 fuel, paid directly to the skipper after the tour. That fuel fee is the part that changes the math most. If you’re traveling with friends, you’ll likely feel that cost much less. If it’s just two of you, you’ll want to decide whether privacy + swimming time is worth the added fuel day cost.

In plain terms: this tour is best when you’re ready to share the boat cost and you really want the private-water experience rather than a public-boat itinerary.

Who should book this private Comino and Gozo boat trip

This is a strong fit if you want:

• Private time on the water with your own skipper pace
• Snorkeling and swimming in clear lagoons
• A mix of Comino + Gozo without planning separate days
• A comfortable boat setup with shade, life vests, and gear included
• Flexibility, like spending more time where the water looks best

It’s also a great choice for families, as long as everyone is comfortable getting into open water. Several captains have been praised for tailoring the experience to kids who may be hesitant about snorkeling or deeper water, while still keeping the day fun.

Where it might not be ideal:

• If you’re not interested in swimming/snorkeling and mostly want viewpoints only, you may find you’re paying for water time you won’t use.
• If you need a long day or a full itinerary packed with stops, 3 hours can feel like a taste, not a full meal.

Also remember it’s subject to weather conditions, so treat it as a day planned around the water.

Practical tips for planning your 3 hours well

Because the trip is only 3 hours, preparation matters. You’ll want to show up ready to use the included snorkel gear and to enjoy anchoring time.

Bring:

• A towel
• Beachwear

If you’re planning to bring your own drinks, use the ice cooler plan. It’s one of the most appreciated extras, especially on hot days.

If you care about avoiding heavy crowds, consider a morning departure when available. Many groups specifically describe morning timing as a way to cut down on sun intensity and boat traffic.

Finally, pay attention to your own comfort level in the water. You’ll have life vests and snorkel equipment, but your best day still comes from choosing a pace that feels good for your group—whether that means snorkeling hard or just floating and enjoying the view.

Should you book this private Comino and Gozo boat trip?

Book it if your holiday checklist includes Comino’s Blue Lagoon and Crystal Lagoon and you want the day to feel calmer, more personal, and less rushed. The value is strongest for groups up to 7, especially once you factor in what’s included on board (shade, snorkel gear, life vests, permits, and an ice cooler).

Skip it if you’re price-sensitive and you’d rather spend money on other Malta experiences, or if you’re not really planning to swim or snorkel. Also keep in mind that fuel is extra, paid on the day.

If you want a half-day that feels like the islands are yours for the afternoon, this is the kind of trip that delivers that sensation fast.

FAQ

How long is the Malta Comino and Gozo private boat trip?

The duration is 3 hours.

What’s the meeting point for this tour in Malta?

In Malta, meet your skipper next to the Cirkewwa kiosk.

Can I start the trip from Gozo instead of Malta?

Yes. The start point can be either Cirkewwa port (Malta) or Mgarr port (Gozo). Let the operator know when you book.

Is hotel pickup included?

No. Hotel pickup and drop-off are not included.

What’s included in the price?

Included are the private boat tour, marina fees, skipper to drive the boat, snorkel and mask, ice cooler with ice, permits for the lagoons, and life jacket.

Is fuel included?

No. Fuel is not included, and you pay €79 to the skipper after the tour.

What group size is the price for?

Pricing is per boat/group up to 7 people.

What should I bring?

Bring a towel and beachwear.

Is the tour affected by weather?

Yes. This tour is subject to weather conditions.

What cancellation terms are offered?

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is there a guide onboard?

There is a live tour guide, and languages listed are English and Maltese.