Private Day Sailing Boat Charter

A private day sailing charter in Malta is interesting because you are not stuck with the usual group choreography. You get a full day on the water that you can shape around swimming time, snorkeling, and calmer coves, instead of spending half your trip waiting in line or following a fixed schedule.

I especially like the personalized route. Skippers such as David, Terry, Steve, Niki, Mauricio, Nick, and Yuri are repeatedly praised for tailoring the day and finding quieter water when possible. Second, I love that the famous stops are built in, Crystal Lagoon and the Blue Lagoon, but you are not trapped there like a ferry passenger.

One possible drawback to plan for: you only get so much time anchored, because a good chunk of the day is sailing. If you start late in the morning, you can feel the squeeze by the time you reach the lagoons, even if everything else goes perfectly.

Key highlights that matter on the water

• Private charter flexibility: your skipper steers the day around your pace, not the other way around.
• Crystal Lagoon plus Blue Lagoon: both are included, and your skipper can help you choose calmer swim spots within the area.
• Multiple access points for water time: swimming, snorkel, and paddleboarding are available when conditions and your mood match.
• Free snorkel gear and 2 stand-up paddle boards: less gear hassle, more time in the water.
• Valletta Grand Harbour at the start and end: the “big picture” of Malta before and after the Comino swims.
• Optional BBQ meal: convenient if you want it, but worth weighing against cost and timing.

Why a private Malta charter beats the big-boat day trips

If you have ever done a group boat day in Malta, you know the pattern: you arrive, you squeeze in, you swim in the same crowded zones everyone else picked, then you leave before you feel ready. A private charter flips the whole thing. Your skipper can keep the day calmer and more “you” from Kalkara Marina through Comino and back.

This is also the kind of tour where small choices feel big. You can spend more time at anchor if the water is inviting, and you can skip a stop if the sea state is making everyone cranky. Several guests specifically praised skippers for adjusting the route to priorities like sailing, swimming, or avoiding overcrowded spots.

Kalkara Marina, Valletta Grand Harbour, and the start-feel you want

Most charters start somewhere scenic, but this one starts in a place that practically sets the tone. Your sailing day begins and ends at Kalkara Marina, located in Valletta Grand Harbour. That harbour is one of those Malta backdrops where even standing on deck feels like part of the attraction.

From there, the typical plan is to head north and out along the island’s coast, then return later for a tour around the harbour. The payoff is that you see Malta in layers: harbour views up close, then open-water sailing to Comino, then a graceful return with a look around Valletta Grand Harbour again.

Two practical notes. First, this is a marina-based meeting point (Pontoon F), so you should plan to arrive a little early to settle in. Second, because you depart and return here, you avoid the stress of switching ports at the end of your day.

Northbound sailing: St Paul’s Islands and the Comino approach

A big reason people love this route is that it’s not just “go to the lagoon and back.” You sail past key points and get the sense of Malta’s shape from the sea.

On the way north, you pass St. Paul’s Islands and reach Comino. St. Paul’s Bay is also part of the flow, with a short stop where you can see the spot associated with St. Paul’s shipwreck. The time there is brief, about 30 minutes, so think of it as a sight window rather than a long exploration.

You also pass by Sliema’s seafront on the way north. That matters because it adds variety. Instead of spending the whole morning looking at open water, you get glimpses of Malta’s coastline life from the boat.

Crystal Lagoon and Blue Lagoon: swim time without the shoulder-to-shoulder

Here’s the heart of the day. Crystal Lagoon and Blue Lagoon are both included, with about 1 hour at Crystal Lagoon and about 2 hours at Blue Lagoon.

Crystal Lagoon is famous for a reason: when conditions are right, the water is unbelievably clear. Because you are on a boat, you can choose how you approach the swim, and you are not limited to a ferry stop and a shore walk.

Blue Lagoon is more famous, and yes, it can be busy. What makes this charter different is that your skipper looks for a peaceful spot within the area. Several guests specifically mention avoiding crowds even while visiting Blue Lagoon, which is exactly what you want from a private day.

One more reality check: those lagoon stops are timed. The sailing between Malta and Comino takes time, so the day’s real value comes from how early you get started and how efficiently you use the anchor time. A guest shared a helpful lesson here: starting late can cut into the anchored swimming window more than you expect.

My advice: if you can, treat the morning as the main event. You are paying for the sailing and the water time, so plan to be ready to go when the day begins.

St. Paul’s Bay plus a harbour wrap-up you should not rush

Not every charter includes meaningful “in-between” moments, but this one does.

St. Paul’s Bay is where St. Paul was shipwrecked. The included time is about 30 minutes. You are not going there for a long tour, but it is a good pause to look at the coast from the water and get context for what you are seeing.

Then, near the end of the day, you do a show-around of Valletta Grand Harbour. This is the part people sometimes rush because they are thinking about changing clothes and getting off the boat. Don’t. The return is the moment when Malta looks grand in a way you cannot fully get from land.

One guest even called out that the return harbour moment was among the nicest parts of the day. I agree with that mindset. When you finish, you want the last images of your day to be Malta, not just the deck.

On-board comfort: snorkel gear, 2 SUP boards, and real choice in the water

The included gear is straightforward and useful. You get snorkelling equipment, and there are 2 stand-up paddle boards onboard. That means you can split time without waiting for the one shared item someone brought from home.

You also have free access to water onboard: the charter includes a free flow of water. It’s a small thing, but when you’re out in the sun, it keeps everyone comfortable.

About activities, you can expect options like swimming, snorkeling, and using the SUP boards when conditions and your group’s energy fit. If anyone in your group wants to just lounge, you can do that too. Multiple reviews mention families and couples enjoying the day at their own pace, not as a strict program.

Food and drinks: BBQ on board can be great, but timing and cost matter

Your charter can include an on-board meal. The experience highlights say you can opt for a fresh barbecue, plus drinks and other nibbles. But the listing also notes that food and drinks are not included, which usually means the BBQ is a selectable add-on.

I like the convenience of having lunch handled for you, especially with kids. Several reviews praise the food, including BBQ and even specific items like swordfish being cooked well.

Still, I would not blindly assume it’s the best value. One couple mentioned the lunch felt overpriced and suggested bringing your own cold meal and wine to save time and money. Another guest noted that bringing your own food and drinks may be possible, but that is something to confirm when booking, since the details can vary.

My practical take:

• If you want low-effort lunch and you do not want to shop or pack snacks, choose the BBQ add-on.
• If you are cost-conscious, pack simple picnic-style items that do not require prep.
• Either way, remember the tradeoff: a cooked lunch can eat into anchored swim time. That does not make it bad, it just helps you set expectations.

Price reality: $707.44 per group, not per person, and why that changes the value

The price is listed as $707.44 per group for up to 2 people, with an 8 hours 30 minutes duration. That pricing structure matters because it can be great value when you compare it to multiple people buying separate tickets on crowded boats.

If you are traveling as a couple, it’s straightforward: you get privacy, control, and a full day on the water for one group price. If you are traveling with friends or family, this charter can still work well, but the key is to check whether your group size fits the “up to 2” pricing model in your booking details.

Where the cost really pays off is in the things you cannot buy separately:

• your skipper becomes your on-water guide for the day
• you gain access to swim spots from the sea, not just from the shoreline
• you get included snorkel gear and SUP boards

Also, the day is long enough that your time is the product. You are not paying only to reach one lagoon and take a few photos.

Weather, seas, and how to get the best day possible

This experience requires good weather. If it gets cancelled due to poor conditions, you are offered another date or a full refund. That’s a fair setup for Malta, because you do not want to force a day sailing when conditions are rough.

Even when the weather is “fine,” you might still get choppy water at sea. One review specifically mentioned being out on a day that was a bit choppy. The good news is that a skilled skipper matters here, and many comments highlight captains who stayed calm, handled safety well, and made the day comfortable even when the sea was not flat.

My advice to help your comfort:

• Dress for sun and wind, even on “warm” days.
• Bring something for nausea if your stomach is sensitive.
• Plan your day around motion. If your goal is snorkeling and swimming, timing and getting into the right conditions matter.

Who this private charter is perfect for

This is a strong match if you want:

• a romantic day with privacy and time to swim at your pace
• a family-friendly outing where the skipper can help keep the day fun and manageable
• a group that wants sailing and water time, not a script

Several reviews mention honeymooners and also multi-person groups where kids were entertained and the skipper adjusted the day to keep everyone happy. One guest even said a skipper took some time to teach sailing and accommodate personal requests, which is what makes a private charter feel special.

It’s also a smart choice if you care about avoiding the busiest shore areas. Even if Blue Lagoon gets crowded on land, being on the boat and choosing where you swim makes a noticeable difference.

Should you book this Malta sailing day?

Book it if you want a private, flexible Comino day with iconic stops, included swim gear, and a skipper who can shape the route around your pace. The consistent theme is that the captains go out of their way to make the day feel personal, whether that means calmer swim spots, more sailing time, or a memorable return into Valletta Grand Harbour.

I would think twice if your travel dates are tight and weather could ruin your plans, or if you are hoping for a long shore-based tour. This is a boat day. The value is on deck, at anchor, and in the water.

If you do book, pick a start time that keeps your lagoon time comfortable. Pack smart for the sea, and decide early whether you want the BBQ add-on or you prefer a simpler lunch so you can maximize swim time.

Safe seas, quiet bays, and a harbour finish that feels like the best kind of movie scene. That is what this charter sets out to deliver.

FAQ

How long is the private day sailing charter?

It runs for about 8 hours 30 minutes.

Where do we start and end the trip?

You start and end at Sailing Charters Malta, Marina – Pontoon F, Triq ir-Regatta 1969, Kalkara KKR 1390, Malta.

What stops are included?

The itinerary includes Crystal Lagoon, Blue Lagoon, St. Paul’s Bay, and a harbour show-around of Valletta Grand Harbour, plus passes by Sliema’s seafront on the northbound route.

Is snorkeling gear included?

Yes. Snorkelling equipment is included.

Are stand-up paddle boards included?

Yes. The charter includes 2 stand-up paddle boards.

Is food included?

No. Food and drinks are not included in the base price. The experience does offer an option for a fresh barbecue and drinks and nibbles, if selected.

What language is offered?

The charter is offered in English.

Is this a private tour?

Yes. It is a private tour/activity, and only your group participates.

What happens if the weather is poor?

The experience requires good weather. If it is cancelled due to poor weather, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.