Malta from the water is a completely different island. The bastions of Valletta rise from the sea like a golden fortress. The cliffs at Dingli drop sheer into deep blue. The Blue Grotto glows from within when the morning light hits right. None of this is visible from the road.
Your Options
Group Boat Trip — Cheapest and Easiest
Tourist boats (traditional dghajsas, catamarans, or small motor vessels) depart daily in season from Sliema ferry landing, Buġibba, and St Julian's.
South route: Blue Grotto, coastal caves, Filfla islet, back North/Comino route: Blue Lagoon, Crystal Lagoon, swimming stops Price: €25–45/person, duration: 3–5 hours
Advantage: cheap, easy to book. Disadvantage: large groups, music, little flexibility.
Private Yacht Charter (with skipper) — Best Value for Groups
Private charters with skippered yacht from Grand Harbour Marina (Valletta) or Marina di Corinthia (St Julian's).
A typical boat (6–8m, capacity 6–8 people):
- Half-day (4 hours): €250–400 per boat (€40–65 per person in a group of 6)
- Full day (8 hours): €500–700 per boat
Recommended routes: 1. Valletta → Three Cities → Blue Lagoon → return: fort views, swimming 2. Sliema → Blue Grotto → Dingli Cliffs → return via Freeport: dramatic scenery 3. Gozo → Comino → Azure Window area → return: green island + turquoise water
Bareboat Charter — For Sailors
Only if you hold an IYT/RYA certificate. Malta requires a licence for vessels over 7.5m. Prices from €150/day (small motorboat) to €400+/day (10m sailboat).
Sunrise/Sunset Cruise
Malta at golden hour from the water — Valletta glowing, calm sea, glass of Maltese wine. Around €60–90/person in groups of 10–15. Romantic and memorable.
When to Sail?
May–October: ideal. Warm, light winds, calm sea. November–April: windier and more swell — experienced sailors love it; casual tourists should probably stick to summer. Avoid: August for Blue Lagoon — dozens of boats anchor simultaneously, it's crowded and chaotic. Go before 9am or after 5pm.
How to Book
- Directly at marinas: Grand Harbour Marina, Marina di Corinthia
- Online: Viator, GetYourGuide, Airbnb Experiences
- Local agencies: Malta Sailing, Sea Adventure Malta, Captain Morgan Cruises (for large groups)
What to Bring
- High-SPF sunscreen (on water, UV is stronger than you expect)
- Seasickness tablets if prone (take in advance)
- Light jacket for wind
- Swimwear and towel
- Waterproof phone cover
- Small amount of cash (some operators prefer it for extras)