Your day on Comino gets a serious upgrade. This private 22-foot boat charter lets you swap crowds for calm coves, with a local captain guiding the route from Cirkewwa and Mgarr. You’ll glide over turquoise water, stop for swimming, and see landmarks like Popeye’s Cave from the sea.

I love two things most: the easy, relaxed onboard setup (sun and shade options plus a freshwater shower) and the way the timing feels flexible compared to larger boats. The swimming stops at Crystal Lagoon and the Blue Lagoon are the main event, and you get proper time in the water with included snorkeling gear.

One consideration: the price is per group (up to 6), so solo travelers won’t get the same per-person value as families or friends splitting the charter. Also note the 50 EUR fuel fee due in cash at the end of the tour.

Key things to know before you go

• Two starting points, one seamless plan: Cirkewwa (Malta) or Mgarr (Gozo), with clear meeting guidance so you don’t waste time.
• A smaller boat feel: a 22-foot private charter, with room to sprawl between bow loungers and shaded seating at the stern.
• Monte Cristo and Popeye’s Cave on the route: you get the headline sights plus the calmer water stops.
• Crystal Lagoon + Blue Lagoon: the itinerary is built around the two signature swimming areas.
• Snorkel time with gear included: masks plus pool noodles for extra floating fun.
• Bring your vibe: a Bluetooth speaker and an ice cooler let you chill with your own drinks.

Your Malta-to-Comino charter starts with the right kind of freedom

The big reason this private charter works is simple: you’re not stuck following a rigid schedule made for big groups. Instead, you’re on a small 22-foot boat where the captain can steer you toward comfortable anchorages and the right spots to swim. And because it’s private, the ride feels like a day with a friend who knows the island—not a cattle-car shuffle.

I like that the experience isn’t just about the views. You also get a local captain who shares stories and context while you cruise—whether it’s island history, practical details, or little “watch for this” moments as landmarks slide by. People specifically mention captains like Alfred and Jolene for their relaxed, friendly style, plus guides such as Roderick and Emmy who keep things comfortable and fun.

The tour runs 2 hours, which sounds short until you realize it’s designed for maximum water time. You’ll have cruising, a couple of sightseeing points, and then the two lagoon swims. If you’re trying to do Comino without spending half your day in transit or waiting your turn, this format fits well.

Getting on board: where to meet and how the boat feels

Your day begins with pickup from the waterside at either Cirkewwa (Malta) or Mgarr (Gozo). Choosing the correct starting point matters, because the experience is set up around those embarkation areas.

If you start in Malta (Cirkewwa), you’ll meet behind the kiosk in the parking area next to the Gozo passenger terminal. If you start in Gozo (Mgarr), you come to Mgarr and look for the blue umbrella opposite the Gozo passenger terminal.

Once you’re aboard, the boat setup is practical. You can relax at the bow (good for photos and open views), sunbathe on a cushioned lounger, or sit in the shade at the stern. That shade option is more important than it sounds in Malta—sun can hit hard once the boat is out in open water.

You’ll also have onboard comforts that make the short charter feel complete: an ice cooler, a freshwater shower, pool noodles, and a Bluetooth speaker so you can play your own playlist. A complimentary bottle of water is included, and there’s local wine for guests aged 18+.

The route: Monte Cristo, Popeye’s Cave, then the lagoon swim circuit

The itinerary is built like a highlights reel, but it’s still paced for enjoying the sea rather than rushing.

Monte Cristo and Popeye’s Cave from the water

Before you reach the main swimming zones, you’ll head past major sights such as Monte Cristo and Popeye’s Cave. The value here is that these landmarks look different from a boat. Up close, you see how the coastline folds and where the light lands on the rock. You also get photo angles that you simply can’t get from the shore.

One practical tip: bring your camera/phone and get a quick sweep of photos early. Once you hit the lagoon stops, your hands get busy with snorkeling gear and water time, and you’ll be glad you captured the landmark views while you’re still dry.

Crystal Lagoon: clearer water, calmer vibes

The tour then stops at the Crystal Lagoon. This is one of those places where the water looks staged—transparent, bright, and perfect for swimming. Since the charter is private, you’re not stuck waiting in line for a spot to jump in. You also have more control over how long you stay in the water.

You get snorkel mask gear and pool noodles, which is great if you want a little structure without turning the whole trip into a training session. In the reviews, people highlight that they had enough time to swim and snorkel, and that the captain helped them find spots where the water stayed clear.

A small reality check: water temperature can vary by season. The experience info doesn’t promise warm water year-round, so if you’re going in cooler months, expect a bit of chill when you first get in.

Blue Lagoon: the headline beach view, but from a better angle

Finally, you reach the Blue Lagoon. This is Comino’s signature—bright water, classic postcard color, and the kind of scenery that makes you forget you’re on a schedule. On a private charter, the biggest difference is not just the scenery; it’s the freedom to enjoy it at your own pace.

If you can choose a start time that fits your travel day, consider later slots. Some people specifically call out the value of going at a time when the lagoons aren’t as crowded, which makes the whole swimming window feel more relaxed.

What’s included onboard (and how to use it well)

This charter is designed so you don’t have to bring a shopping list. Here’s what you get and how it helps your day.

Snorkel gear and floating support

You’ll have snorkeling mask equipment included. In addition, there are pool noodles, which are ideal for casual floating, quick calm breaks, and keeping things easy if you’re not a confident swimmer.

In practice, this setup supports a “choose your own pace” experience. You can snorkel for a while, then switch to floating while you watch the water. That’s especially good for mixed groups where not everyone wants to spend the entire time with their face in the water.

Bluetooth speaker + cooler = make it yours

You’re provided a Bluetooth speaker, plus an ice cooler. This is one of those small features that changes the mood. You can play your music while you cruise between stops, and it turns the boat ride into the kind of hanging-out day you’d hoped for, not just a sightseeing transfer.

A practical move: load a playlist ahead of time and keep it offline so there’s no phone signal drama while you’re out on the water.

Wine, water, and the 18+ detail

A bottle of local wine is included, but it’s for guests aged 18+. If you’re traveling with teens or a mixed-age group, plan on the water and soft drinks from the cooler alongside the wine for the adults.

If you prefer not to drink, you can still make full use of the cooler and bring your own beverages. People mention bringing their own drinks and using the cooler effectively, which makes sense because a 2-hour ride is perfect for a chilled onboard setup.

Freshwater shower: the underrated finishing touch

After swimming in crystal-clear water, you’ll want a way to rinse off. That’s where the onboard freshwater shower pays off. It means you return less salty, less sandy, and more ready to keep exploring Malta or grab dinner without feeling gross.

The value question: $175 per group up to 6

At $175 per group up to 6, this isn’t the cheapest way to see the lagoons—but it can be one of the best value ways to enjoy Comino without the big-boat hassle. Here’s the real math: if you split the group cost among friends or family, the experience quickly turns into “worth it” territory because you’re paying for privacy, time, and a small-boat setup that feels comfortable.

Private charters can cost more per person than public boat options. But the practical benefit here is that you don’t have to fight for space, climb over strangers, or follow a rigid group pace while you’re trying to enjoy swimming.

Two other value signals show up in the details: the included snorkel gear and the included onboard drinks (water plus wine for adults). When a tour hands you the tools for swimming and relaxation, you don’t need to buy add-ons that creep into your budget.

One more note: even though port fees are included, there’s a 50 EUR fuel fee due in cash at the end of the tour. Factor that into your mental budget so you’re not surprised at checkout time.

Comfort and safety: what to bring and what to plan for

This charter is relaxed, but it’s still time on open water—so prep matters.

What to bring

Bring a towel, sunscreen, cash, and consider motion sickness prevention. The motion sickness note is especially worth taking seriously if you’re sensitive to boats or rougher water.

Also, bring what you need to keep your day smooth: swimwear (obviously), and a change of clothes if you don’t want wet hair and salt air to follow you into the rest of your itinerary.

What’s not allowed (because you’re sharing a small space)

The tour doesn’t allow weapons or sharp objects, mobility scooters, or non-folding wheelchairs. So keep your packing simple and avoid anything that could create safety issues on a small deck.

Accessibility note

This experience is not suitable for wheelchair users. If that’s part of your group’s needs, you’ll want to look for a different boat option designed for accessibility.

Who this charter fits best

This is a “yes” for a lot of people, but it isn’t for everyone.

Best for

• Couples who want a calmer day than the crowded lagoon scene
• Families with kids who want a flexible swim plan (snorkels and noodles help everyone participate)
• Small groups up to 6 who want their own boat and their own playlist
• First-timers to Comino who want a simple plan with the main sights and time in the water

People also mention that the vibe works well for mixed ages, including groups that range from kids to adults who just want comfortable swimming stops and a relaxed pace.

Not ideal for

• Anyone needing wheelchair access (the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users)
• Solo travelers who want to minimize cost (private charters are priced by group size)
• Guests who want a long, multi-stop full-day cruise (this one is intentionally 2 hours)

Tips to get the most out of your 2 hours

You’ll only have so much time, so a little strategy helps.

First, commit to the swim schedule. The charter is built around stopping at Crystal Lagoon and Blue Lagoon, with snorkel gear ready. If you want the water time to be the highlight, don’t spend the whole cruise deciding what to do—get in during each swim stop and enjoy the transition between cruising and swimming.

Second, use the captain’s instincts. Captains like Jolene are praised for finding quieter anchorages away from the busiest spots and for making everyone feel safe and comfortable. That means you should ask questions while you’re onboard and trust the guidance rather than trying to “optimize” everything yourself.

Third, plan your photos in two phases: dry-land-ish landmark photos early (Monte Cristo and Popeye’s Cave), then focus on water photos during the lagoon stops once you’re set with your gear. If you want group shots, it helps to be ready when the boat is near the right light, not after you’re already in the water.

Should you book this private charter?

If your goal is Comino with privacy, and you want to spend your money on time in clear water rather than waiting around, I’d book it. The standout strengths are the small-group private setting, the included snorkeling gear, and the practical comfort details like shade, Bluetooth music, a cooler, and a freshwater shower.

I’d hesitate only if you’re traveling solo and the price-per-person feels steep once you account for the 50 EUR fuel fee in cash, or if your group needs wheelchair-friendly access. Otherwise, this is one of the more straightforward “do exactly what it says on the tin” ways to experience Malta’s lagoon magic—without turning your day into a long queue.

FAQ

Where do we meet if we start in Malta (Cirkewwa) versus Gozo (Mgarr)?

If you start in Malta, meet behind the kiosk in the parking area next to the Gozo passenger terminal. If you start in Gozo, come to Mgarr and look for the blue umbrella opposite the Gozo passenger terminal.

How long is the boat charter?

The charter lasts 2 hours.

Is snorkeling gear included?

Yes. Snorkeling mask gear is included, and the boat also provides pool noodles.

Is water and wine included?

A bottle of water is included. Local wine is included for those aged 18+.

Is there an extra fuel fee?

Yes. There is a 50 EUR fuel fee due in cash at the end of the tour.

Can I play my own music on the boat?

Yes. The boat has a Bluetooth speaker system, and you can play your favorite tunes.

Do port fees and safety equipment come with the tour?

Port fees and safety equipment are included.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?

No. This experience is not suitable for wheelchair users, and mobility scooters and non-folding wheelchairs are not allowed.

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