8-Hour Catamaran Charter from Valletta, Malta

Eight hours on a catamaran, that’s a payoff. I like the professional skipper and the snorkeling equipment. You get plenty of time for swimming and bays, but plan for the fact that alcohol and brunch are not included.

This is a 10am to 6pm day from Marina di Valletta, on a small charter sized for up to 14 people. That matters. It feels more like a shared outing than a cattle-car cruise.

You’ll typically spend time around Comino (yes, the famous Blue Lagoon area) plus other bays around Malta and Gozo. If you want sun, shade, and a lot of water time, this is built for that.

Key things I think you should know before booking

• Up to 14 people on an Excess 12 style catamaran, so the day feels personal, not crowded
• Snorkeling gear, paddle boards, noodles are available, which makes it easy to jump into the water right away
• Unlimited water and soft drinks onboard keeps the budget calmer
• BBQ grill onboard gives you flexible lunch options if you bring food
• WiFi and a restroom mean you can relax without feeling stuck
• Capt. Jack gets nods in reviews, and the stops can be seriously scenic, like St. Paul Island

8-hour Valletta catamaran timing that actually fits a Malta itinerary

A full day on the water is exactly what I look for in Malta, because the coastline rewards time. This charter runs from 10:00am to about 6:00pm. That schedule gives you enough daylight to settle in, do one or more swim breaks, and still have time to enjoy the ride back.

If you’ve only got a single day on Comino or Gozo in your plan, an 8-hour format is often the sweet spot. You’re not rushing through everything. You’re also not stuck on the boat the whole time with no real stops. The pacing is built around anchored bays, where you can actually get in the water.

Marina di Valletta meet-up: start the day without stress

You meet at Marina di Valletta | Yacht Marina Malta, specifically Marina di Valletta Limited Haywharf, Pietà, Malta. It’s a marina setting, and the listing says it’s near public transportation, which is handy if you are not driving.

Look at the start time as your real anchor. Arrive early enough to get settled, use the restroom, and confirm where you store swim stuff. This day is mostly about the water, so you’ll want your swimwear and a towel ready to go fast.

Also, the charter uses a mobile ticket, so you’ll want your phone charged and easy to access. Small detail, big day.

What the route feels like: Comino Blue Lagoon area plus bays around Malta and Gozo

The core idea here is simple: you start from Valletta, then spend the day anchored in beautiful bays with swimming and snorkeling breaks. The day often includes time around the Blue Lagoon on Comino, plus other breathtaking anchor spots around Malta and Gozo.

That combination is valuable. The Blue Lagoon area is famous for a reason, but it’s not the only good water. When your day includes multiple bays, you get more variety in scenery and more chances to find calmer moments to swim.

A review specifically highlights a stop near St. Paul Island, and the phrasing tells me something important: the skipper does not treat this like a checklist. The anchoring choice can make or break the vibe of a catamaran day. If they drop anchor in a standout spot, the whole day feels better.

Possible drawback to keep in mind

Weather matters. The tour info says this experience requires good weather, and the provider can reschedule if conditions are poor. In Malta, wind and swell can change quickly, so build flexibility into your overall trip plan if you can.

Snorkeling time: what’s included, and how to use it well

This charter includes snorkeling equipment (and it also lists items like noodles). In plain terms, that means you do not have to pack your own gear just to have fun for a few swims.

It’s also about confidence and convenience. When equipment is onboard, you can keep your day simple. You can do one swim break, see how it feels, then go again later.

Paddle boards are a bonus, not a side quest

On board you’ll also have paddle boards and likely enough onboard guidance to get moving. Paddle boarding can be a different type of activity than snorkeling. You get to stay on the surface and enjoy the view while still feeling active.

My practical tip: do paddle boarding in the calmer parts of the day. If the water is choppy at one stop, save it for a bay where the water looks more relaxed, and stick to snorkeling or just floating for that first round.

How to plan your swim breaks on a full day

With a day this long, you’ll probably want a simple routine:

• Swim early while you feel fresh
• Take shade and food breaks between water time
• Do a second swim later when you’re more relaxed

Since the catamaran includes a restroom onboard and unlimited water and soft drinks, you can pace yourself without turning the day into a constant sprint.

Lunch options: BBQ grill onboard, bring your own, or order onboard

Food is often the difference between a nice outing and a great day. The charter includes a BBQ grill, and you can bring your own food and drinks. The tour description also mentions there can be a menu of refreshments available on board, and some charters may offer catering options in advance, though details can vary.

So you have choices:

• If you like flexibility and cost control, bring a lunch.
• If you want less planning, use the onboard refreshment options if available.
• If the group is hungry, the BBQ grill setup gives you an option beyond just snacks.

Reviews also mention a food option and that it tasted good. That’s a helpful signal. Still, don’t assume it’s included automatically. Treat it as an add-on or an onboard choice, then plan your own backup food if you have strong preferences.

Drinks: what’s included and what to budget

This day includes unlimited water and soft drinks onboard. That’s a real value add for a long charter.

Alcoholic beverages are not included, so if your group plans to drink beer or wine, factor that into your day. This is one of those “small line item” things that can surprise people if they’re expecting it to be part of the package.

Onboard comfort: shade, WiFi, restroom, and the simple luxuries

A catamaran day can be either relaxing or annoying, depending on comfort. Here, the included amenities do most of the heavy lifting.

You get:

• WiFi on board
• Restroom on board
• Unlimited water and soft drinks
• Use of paddle boards and snorkeling equipment
• Cleaning before and after the charter

The restroom and water access are especially practical on an 8-hour schedule. You’re spending a lot of time in swim mode. When you don’t have to scramble for basics, you enjoy the scenery more.

Shade also matters. The description notes there are sheltered areas and shaded spots. That’s not just comfort. It helps you avoid the “sunburn then misery” pattern that can ruin a day on the water.

If you care about staying connected, the onboard WiFi is a plus. I wouldn’t plan your whole trip on it, but it’s good for checking messages and sharing photos while you’re still out at sea.

Group size and the Excess 12 vibe: why up to 14 feels right

The charter is capped at 14 guests maximum. That size is ideal for the experience you’re buying: a relaxed day on a catamaran with time at multiple anchor points.

In a larger group, someone is always pushing for the next thing, and you spend more time waiting. With a smaller group, it’s easier to coordinate snorkeling turns, paddle board time, and just general movement around the deck.

One review specifically calls out a family of 10 and says the boat was a good size for everyone, with plenty of swimming time. That lines up with the “small charter” goal.

Also, you’ll have a your very own professional skipper. You want someone who can manage anchoring, pacing, and safety. When the skipper is doing good work, the day flows better and the scenery choices get better too.

Price and value: $1,800.36 per group up to 14

Let’s talk money in a realistic way.

The price is listed as $1,800.36 per group (up to 14). If the boat fills to the cap, that’s roughly $129 per person. If you’re only a partial group, the per-person number goes up.

So the value depends on who you’re going with:

• If you have a group of friends or a multi-family group, this can be a strong deal for an 8-hour charter with fuel, snorkeling gear, and onboard basics included.
• If you’re booking as just a couple or a small group, you might pay more per person than you would on a larger sightseeing cruise. In that case, it can still be worth it if you prioritize quiet and flexibility over a big bus vibe.

What you’re getting for the money:

• Fuel and skipper
• Snorkeling equipment and paddle boards
• Noodles
• BBQ grill
• WiFi and restroom
• Unlimited water and soft drinks
• Cleaning before and after

Those inclusions are what keep the day from becoming an “everything extra” experience. You’re not constantly paying for basic seaworthy needs.

Who should book this charter, and who should think twice

This charter fits best if you want a relaxed Malta day with real time in the water. It’s a great fit for:

• Couples or small groups who want a calmer pace and fewer crowds
• Families that want structured water activities like snorkeling gear and paddle boards
• Beach lovers who care more about swimming bays than shopping streets

Think twice if:

• You hate weather-related uncertainty. The tour says it needs good weather.
• You expect the charter to include alcohol and a full formal meal. Alcohol is not included, and brunch is listed as not included.
• You want a purely guided, shore-based sightseeing day. This is mostly a sea-day with anchored stops.

Should you book the 8-hour Valletta catamaran charter?

If you’re deciding between yet another land-based tour and a day that centers on water, I’d lean toward this. The mix of Comino Blue Lagoon area, other bays around Malta and Gozo, and the included gear makes it a solid “do it once” experience.

Book it if:

• You want multiple swim breaks in a single day
• You like the idea of a small group and a professional skipper running the show
• You’re okay handling food your way, either bring your own or use onboard refreshment options

Skip it or be extra flexible if:

• Your schedule is tight and you can’t move if weather forces a different date
• You’re expecting alcohol and full meals to be included without planning

If you match this trip to your style, it’s the kind of Malta day that turns into a straightforward memory: sun, anchored bays, and a boat day that doesn’t feel overcomplicated.

FAQ

What time does the catamaran charter depart from Valletta?

The charter departs at 10:00am and returns at about 6:00pm.

How many people can be on the boat?

The maximum group size is 14 guests.

What snorkeling items are included?

You’ll have snorkeling equipment included, plus noodles.

Are paddle boards included?

Yes, paddle boards are included for use onboard.

Is BBQ food included?

A BBQ grill is onboard and you can bring your own food and drinks. The description also mentions there may be an onboard refreshment menu, but specific meal inclusion is not stated as fully included.

What drinks are included?

You get unlimited water and soft drinks onboard.

Is there WiFi and a restroom onboard?

Yes. There is WiFi on board and a restroom on board.

Where is the meeting point?

Meet at Marina di Valletta | Yacht Marina Malta, Marina di Valletta Limited Haywharf, Pietà, Malta.

When will I receive confirmation after booking?

You should receive confirmation within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability.

What happens if the weather is bad or I need to cancel?

This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. You can also cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance.