Private Boat Tour: Crystal Lagoon, Blue Lagoon, Comino and Gozo

The best part of this Malta boat trip is the freedom to leave the crowded ferry areas behind and anchor in quieter water. From Cirkewwa or Mġarr Harbour, your private speedboat reaches Comino quickly, giving you time for swimming, snorkeling, sea caves and wide views across the Gozo Channel.

I like the small private group, which makes it easier to change the pace, and I like the flexible route. Skippers such as Justin, Ginger, Upie, Lucas and others have adjusted stops for children, swimmers, photos and ferry plans. The boat can also reach places larger craft cannot.

The main drawback is the short duration. Two hours works well for a quick taste, but it is not a full island day. You should also budget for the separate €79 fuel surcharge per booking, and confirm exactly what is included before you set off.

Key points at a glance

• Private boat for up to eight people: You get the boat and skipper to yourselves rather than joining a large party cruise.
• Blue Lagoon and Crystal Lagoon: Both offer clear water for swimming and snorkeling, though the Blue Lagoon can still be busy.
• Fast access from Cirkewwa or Mġarr: The northern Malta departure point and Gozo harbour put you close to Comino.
• Flexible sightseeing: Your skipper can spend more time on swimming, caves, reefs or photos, depending on conditions and your wishes.
• Snorkeling gear included: Masks and snorkels are provided, though you should check the equipment before leaving the dock.
• Extra fuel cost: The advertised group price does not include the €79 fuel surcharge.

Why a private boat makes Comino easier

Comino is tiny, car-free and known for its bright blue water. Its fame is also its problem. Ferry boats and sightseeing craft gather around the best-known swimming spots, especially at the Blue Lagoon. A private boat gives you a better chance of finding a quieter anchorage and lets you avoid spending your limited time waiting for a crowded boat to load.

The boat carries up to eight people, so this works particularly well for a family, two couples or a group of friends. At $204.37 per group, the base cost looks reasonable when divided among several people. For eight, that is about $25.55 each before the fuel surcharge. For two people, it is a much more expensive outing, though you are paying for privacy and control rather than a seat on a standard ferry.

The separate €79 fuel charge changes the calculation. Ask for the complete price in advance, including the currency conversion and any transfer costs. One booking reported that the fuel fee was easy to miss, even though it appeared in the exclusions and confirmation information. This is the clearest practical point to settle before committing.

Leaving from Cirkewwa or Mġarr Harbour

If you are staying on Malta, the usual meeting point is near Cirkewwa Ferry Terminal in Mellieħa. If you are staying on Gozo, the boat can leave from the Mġarr Ferry Harbour. Pickup can be arranged at either marina, and the activity normally returns to its starting point.

The choice of departure point matters. Cirkewwa is at Malta’s northern tip and is already close to Comino. Mġarr is Gozo’s main harbour, so starting there can save you a separate trip across the channel. The company can also arrange a drop-off on Malta or Gozo if you request it ahead of time, which may help if you are planning a one-way island visit.

Build in time to reach the dock. One family used a recommended taxi from a cruise port and found the arrangements clear, but transport from another part of Malta can take time. The boat operator’s communication before departure has been a strength, with instructions sent by message and phone in some cases.

Blue Lagoon: beautiful water, busy edges

The Blue Lagoon is the famous stop, and the color is the reason. The pale seabed and clear water create the brilliant turquoise look seen in Malta photographs. You can swim from the boat, use the supplied mask and snorkel, and enjoy the view without needing to find a place on the narrow shore.

The private boat aims to anchor away from the busiest ferry areas. That helps, but you should not expect total solitude in the middle of the day. The lagoon is one of Malta’s best-known sights, and many boats visit it. If your schedule allows, an early start is the smart choice. Departures around 8:00 or 8:30 in the morning have been especially useful for reaching the lagoon before the crowds build.

The planned stop is about 30 minutes, though the exact time can change with the route and sea conditions. That is enough for a good swim and a short snorkel. It is not enough for a long relaxed beach session, so keep your expectations realistic.

Crystal Lagoon and Cominotto’s quieter water

Crystal Lagoon is often the more rewarding swimming stop for people who dislike the Blue Lagoon crowds. It is enclosed by limestone cliffs and includes sea caves that are best seen from the water. You can swim from the boat, snorkel, sunbathe on board or ask to pause for photos.

The listed stop is about 20 minutes, with the route allowing another visit to Crystal Lagoon later. That repeated mention reflects the flexible nature of the trip rather than a promise of two separate long stops. Your skipper may adjust the plan according to weather, traffic on the water and what your group wants.

Opposite Comino, small Cominotto islet adds another change of scene. It is uninhabited and surrounded by clear water, with a small beach and a cave that passes through the island. The planned viewing or swimming time is about 10 minutes, so think of this as a quick scenic stop rather than a full shore visit.

Caves, reefs and the P31 wreck

The smaller boat is useful around Comino’s rocky coast. The route may pass L-Għar ta’ Bla Saqaf, also called the Crystal Lagoon Cave, where the water reflects green and blue light against the rock. You may swim near the entrance, but descriptions suggesting that you will go far inside should be treated cautiously. The cave openings are often viewed from the boat, and some are too small for a boat to enter.

Alex Cave has an air pocket and clear water near one of Comino’s small islets. It is a scenic place to pause, though the possibility of swimming there depends on the sea. The crew can also cruise past Imriek Reef and Cominotto Reef, shallow areas suited to snorkeling and underwater photographs.

The P31 wreck is another possible stop. This former patrol boat lies in shallow water off Comino and can be viewed by snorkeling from above. It is an appealing option for people who want something beyond scenic swimming, but ask the skipper if it fits the day’s route. The two-hour outing includes several possible points, not guaranteed long visits at every one.

Some descriptions also refer to octopus and small fish around reefs near Cirkewwa and Cominotto. Marine life is never guaranteed, and one outing found little to see at crowded snorkel spots. The water and rock formations are the reliable highlights. Bring modest expectations for wildlife.

St. Mary’s Tower and the Comino coast

St. Mary’s Tower, also called Comino Tower, rises above the cliffs and dates from 1618, when the Knights of St. John built it as a coastal defense. You normally view it from the boat rather than go ashore. It is a fine photo stop, with views toward Gozo and the channel.

Film fans may recognize the tower from The Count of Monte Cristo. Your skipper may also point out other filming locations around the islands. Justin, in particular, has been praised for sharing facts about Malta and film sites, while other skippers have taken a quieter approach. If storytelling matters to you, say so when you board. The experience can be more sightseeing-focused or more relaxed, depending on the skipper and your requests.

The boat may also pass the Comino Islets, Imriek Reef and other rocky outcrops. These sections are less about a single landmark and more about seeing the rugged coast from sea level, where small caves and narrow inlets become visible.

What the skippers add to the trip

The skipper can make or break a short private tour. Justin has been singled out for energy, local facts and an easy manner with both children and older family members. Ginger has been praised for finding good anchorages as the water became busier and for adapting the route. Upie has received strong marks for calm boat handling and helping with ferry plans. Lucas has been appreciated by families with young children, while other outings have been led by Chris, Matt, Sam, Dani, Jimmy, Francesco, Adin, Brenden and Zlatko.

Do not assume you can select a particular skipper. You can request one, but availability is not stated. More important is telling the crew what you want: swimming, snorkeling, caves, photographs, a relaxed ride or a route that suits children.

Most of the feedback points to safe handling and friendly service. One skipper made a birthday outing special with a song and a backflip from the boat’s platform. That is a memorable extra, not something you should expect as part of the standard program.

Swimming, snorkeling and comfort on board

Snorkeling equipment is included. The boat also has shade and room to sit, and life jackets are available, including for a four-year-old on one family outing. Floats or pool noodles may be available, but supplies can be limited, so weaker swimmers should ask early.

Equipment quality deserves a quick check. One outing had enough sets but foggy goggles and a concern about cleanliness. Before leaving the dock, make sure you have a mask that seals, a snorkel that works and gear for every person who wants to use it. If something is not right, ask the skipper to replace it.

Food is not provided. Current transport rules mean the operator does not serve food, but you can bring your own or buy from kiosks along the coast. For a two-hour trip, water and a small snack are usually enough. Keep food secure and avoid bringing anything you would hate to lose overboard.

Is two hours enough?

For a focused look at Comino, yes. Two hours can cover the Blue Lagoon, Crystal Lagoon and several caves or reefs without turning the day into a marathon. Families with young children and people fitting the excursion around a cruise schedule may appreciate the compact format.

For a slow day on the water, no. You will not have time for every named cave, reef, islet and wreck as well as long swims at both lagoons. The route is best understood as a menu of possibilities. Your skipper will choose according to weather, sea traffic and your priorities.

The short duration also makes this a good add-on to a Malta or Gozo itinerary. You can spend the rest of the day exploring inland sights, walking around Gozo or returning to your accommodation.

Who should book it

I would recommend this for a private group that values flexibility and wants to swim in Malta’s clearest water without joining a large party boat. It suits families, couples celebrating a special occasion, small friend groups and people with only a few hours available.

It is less suitable if you want a detailed historical tour, a full day around Comino or guaranteed quiet water at midday. It may also disappoint you if snorkeling wildlife is your main goal. The coast and water are the dependable attractions, while fish sightings depend on the site and conditions.

The activity requires good weather. If the operator cancels because of poor conditions, you are offered another date or a full refund. You can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before the start time, but late cancellations and late changes are not accepted.

Should you book this Comino boat trip?

Book it if you want privacy, quick access and control over the route. The strongest value comes when six to eight people share the cost, since the boat price is per group rather than per person. An early departure gives you the best chance of calmer water and less crowding at the Blue Lagoon.

Before paying, confirm the €79 fuel surcharge, departure marina, return plan and the stops you care about most. If your group wants a fast, friendly introduction to Comino with time for swimming and caves, this is a sound choice. If you want extensive commentary, long snorkel sessions or a full island day, choose a longer charter instead.

FAQ

How long does the private boat tour last?

The tour lasts approximately two hours.

How many people can join the private boat?

The boat is for your private group, with space for up to eight people.

Where does the tour depart?

Guests staying on Malta usually depart from Cirkewwa near the Ferry Terminal. Guests staying on Gozo can depart from Mġarr Ferry Harbour.

Can the boat pick me up at a marina?

Pickup can be arranged at Cirkewwa Marina or Gozo Marina. You should confirm the exact meeting point in advance.

Does the tour return to the starting point?

The standard activity ends back at the meeting point. A drop-off on Malta or Gozo may also be possible if arranged ahead of time.

Are Blue Lagoon and Crystal Lagoon included?

Yes. The route includes stops at both lagoons, with time for swimming and snorkeling.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

Yes. Snorkeling equipment is included, though you should check the mask and snorkel before leaving the dock.

Is food included?

No. Food is not served on the boat. You may bring your own food or buy something from kiosks around the coast.

Is there an extra fuel charge?

Yes. A €79 fuel surcharge applies per booking and is not included in the base price.

What happens if the weather is poor?

If the tour is canceled because of poor weather, you will be offered a different date or a full refund. You can also cancel up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund.