Salt air and open-water freedom beat shore tours. This private 8-hour sailing charter pairs Gozo and Comino scenery with real time in the water, on a well-equipped 14-meter sailboat. You cruise to secluded bays only reachable by boat, then drop anchor for swims, snorkeling, and water toys in crystal-clear spots.

I like two things most. First, the skipper, Peter, comes across as welcoming and tuned in to what your group can enjoy, even when conditions bring some wind. Second, the boat setup is built for doing, not just watching: paddle board, kayak, and snorkeling gear are ready, plus a hammock for the slow moments.

One consideration: this is a sailing day on the sea. If wind picks up, your exact swim rhythm can change, and you’ll want to be comfortable getting in and out of the water multiple times. Also, the BBQ is on you for food, so plan what you’ll grill.

Key highlights worth planning around

• 14-meter sailboat with full use of 3 cabins, so you’re not stuck only on the deck
• Multiple anchor-and-swim stops with time to explore caves and marine life
• Peter’s hands-on hosting, including adjusting the day so swimming still works when it’s windy
• All the water gear included: snorkeling equipment, paddle board, and kayak
• BBQ on board (bring your own food) plus water, soft drinks, snacks, and Prosecco
• Departures from Marfa Jetty or Mgarr Harbor (Gozo) for a true day out on the water

A 14-meter sailing day that actually feels private

This charter is built around the simple idea that the best views around Malta aren’t from a viewpoint—they’re from the sea. On a 14-meter sailboat, you get a proper cruising space without feeling like you’re squeezed into a big group schedule. And since it’s a private full-day format for your group (up to 11 people), you’re not competing for shade, swim time, or attention.

The route focuses on Gozo and Comino, with a big emphasis on soaring coastline, caves, and secluded coves. That means you spend less time in transit between “things to see” and more time parked in good water long enough to enjoy it.

Peter, the skipper, makes the day flow

What stands out from the experience is how Peter runs the day like a host, not just a driver. People specifically call out his welcoming vibe, his skill as a skipper, and the way he keeps things easy even with wind in the mix. In practical terms, that’s what you want: you’re out on open water, and you’d rather have someone who manages the day smoothly than someone who treats it like a checklist.

He also shows up in the small ways that matter on a boat day. With a bigger group that includes kids and adults, he stays patient and organized. And the BBQ moment can be more than “you figure it out”—Peter has been known to help with grilling food brought aboard and make sure the day feels taken care of.

How the 8 hours usually plays out on the water

You’re out for a full day—8 hours—which is long enough to feel like you escaped, but not so long that everyone gets cranky from the sun and sea time. The basic rhythm is cruise, anchor, swim, repeat, with multiple stops along the Gozo and Comino coast.

Because this is sailing, not a theme park, the captain can shift the order depending on wind and conditions. That’s not a problem if you go in with the right mindset: you’re there for water time. If wind affects surface calm, a good skipper will still find ways to keep swimming fun and safe.

Plan to move at a boat pace. You’ll have time to relax between swim stops, use the included gear, and take breaks when the boat rocks you into that slow, steady rhythm.

Gozo cliffs and boat-only bays: why the sea matters

Gozo’s coastline has drama—steep, sculpted cliffs and lots of places where the land drops straight into the water. From the deck, you get that “wow” view without trying to hike to every lookout. The charter is designed to marvel at the cliffs and then turn that scenery into swim time.

The key advantage here is access. These secluded bays and coves are the kind of places you don’t reach comfortably by foot or by relying on public transport. Being on a private boat means you can linger at the best water, instead of snapping a quick photo and moving on.

One possible drawback: boat-only access also means logistics are simple and direct—when you’re done at a stop, you’re leaving it by sea. There’s no quick “I changed my mind, let’s walk back” option. That’s fine if your group is flexible and you’re all in for a slow day with a few water activities.

Comino’s crystal-clear lagoons, caves, and marine life time

Comino’s reputation is earned, and this charter is aimed at getting you out into it. The day includes crystal-clear waters with time to explore the marine scene and caves. With snorkeling gear included, you can spend your stop time both above and below the surface.

You’ll likely experience multiple anchor points that feel different from one another—some spots are best for an easy swim, others for snorkeling, and others for paddle board or kayak time. The captain builds in plenty of time rather than rushing you through a single stop.

If you’re traveling with kids, this part can be especially good because the activities don’t require training wheels. You can snorkel at your own pace, float and play, or swap to a kayak or paddle board. If wind or waves make one activity less comfortable, you still have options.

Paddle board, kayak, and snorkeling gear: included fun you’ll actually use

A lot of boat days advertise “water toys.” Here, the list is clear and practical. You have paddle board and a kayak, plus snorkeling equipment. That matters because it turns the charter from passive sightseeing into hands-on time.

I like this format because everyone gets their own “comfort lane.” Some people stay close to the boat and snorkel casually. Others want to paddle around the anchorage. And if you just want to be in the water without pressure, you can keep it simple.

Also, the included gear reduces friction. You don’t need to pack it, rent it, or hunt around for instructions. You just bring yourself, and the boat is equipped to make the day fun right away.

One thing to keep in mind: you’re on a sailboat, and those activities are best enjoyed with a little practical boat sense. Wear the gear as directed, keep an eye on where the boat is anchored, and don’t overestimate how calm the surface will feel in changing wind.

BBQ with Prosecco: bringing your own food changes the feel

This charter includes BBQ service, but you bring your own food for grilling. That’s not a downside if you treat it like a picnic with a purpose. You get the convenience of having the setup on board while still controlling what’s on the grill—handy for families with picky eaters or for friend groups coordinating favorites.

The day also includes Prosecco, plus water, soft drinks, and snacks. That combination is the sweet spot for a long day outside, when everyone’s hungry and the heat builds.

What surprised me in the feedback is how much Peter has been able to help make the BBQ feel smooth. With the right mindset—prep what you can before you arrive, then hand it to the crew—you can turn the meal into part of the day rather than another chore.

Boat comfort: 3 cabins and a hammock for the slow moments

This isn’t a tiny speedboat day where you’re standing the whole time. The sailboat has three cabins and full access, so you can get out of the sun, cool down, and rest between swim stops.

That matters on an 8-hour outing. Even if you’re having an excellent day, you’ll want a place to reset your energy. A deck can be fun, but sun and wind fatigue are real. Having cabin space gives your group options, especially if you’ve got kids, grandparents, or anyone who just needs a break from direct exposure.

There’s also a hammock available on board. It’s one of those small details that turns a sailing day into a true relaxation day. When the boat is drifting and everyone’s spent time in the water, hanging out in that slow-moving space feels like the whole point.

Price and value: $823 per group up to 11

At $823 per group (up to 11 people), you’re paying for a private boat day with skipper, fuel, and port fees included, plus a packed list of activities. On the math side, if you fill the group, it works out to roughly $75 per person. If you go with fewer people, the per-person price rises, but you still keep the benefits of a private sailing schedule.

Here’s why the value makes sense for the right group. This charter covers:

• skipper service
• fuel and port fees
• snorkeling equipment, paddle board, and kayak
• BBQ grill service with water/snacks/soft drinks and Prosecco
• a full 8-hour outing designed around swim stops

If you were to price those parts separately—especially a private boat with a skipper and included gear—the total would usually climb fast. The charter is one of those “one payment, many included moments” deals.

Who should book this sailing charter (and who might hesitate)

This is a strong match if you want a family-friendly day on the water with options for different energy levels. Feedback also highlights that it works well for groups that include both adults and kids, since the captain keeps things calm and flexible.

It’s also ideal for friend groups who want time together without the rigid feel of a big-group tour. Up to 11 is big enough to enjoy company, but small enough that the skipper can keep an eye on everyone.

You might pause if your group wants a strict, predictable schedule with no changes. Because wind affects sailing conditions, your exact swim timing can shift. But if you’re the type who enjoys being out at sea and going with the day’s flow, that adaptability is part of the charm.

Final call: should you book it?

Yes—if your idea of a great Malta day includes time in the water and a private pace. The combination of Peter’s hosting style, the included paddle board and kayak, and the multiple swim stops around Gozo and Comino is what makes this stand out as a real experience, not just transport to a view.

I’d book it when you have a group that will use the gear. If you’ll split time between snorkeling, paddling, and relaxing, you’ll squeeze a lot of fun out of the 8 hours. And if BBQ is on your list, bringing your own food turns lunch into a personal choice instead of a fixed menu.

If your group hates water activities or prefers staying mostly on land, you may feel the day is too “boat forward.” But for anyone who wants salt air, cliffs, caves, and crystal-clear swim time with a capable skipper, this charter is a smart pick.

FAQ

Where do the charters depart from?

Departures are from Marfa Jetty or from Mgarr Harbor in Gozo.

How long is the full-day sailing charter?

The charter runs for 8 hours.

What’s included besides the boat ride?

You get water, soft drinks, snacks, and Prosecco, plus BBQ service (with your own food), snorkeling equipment, a paddle board, and a kayak. It also includes the skipper, fuel, and port fees.

What activities are available during the day?

The day includes time to swim and snorkel, and you can also paddle board or kayak in the clear waters. There are also opportunities to explore caves and marine life during the stops.

Do I need to bring food for the BBQ?

Yes. The BBQ is included, but you bring your own food to grill.

What languages are offered for the guide?

The live tour guidance is available in English.

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