Sailing in Malta: Charters, Routes, and Blue Lagoon by Boat

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

Included: skipper, fuel, snorkelling gear, sometimes lunch/provisions

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)

Tip: book 2–3 days ahead in peak season. Skippered charters for private groups go fast.