Reviewed · SKIPPERED BOAT CHARTERS
Fishing Charters in Ta Xbiex Malta
Tuna hunting starts before sunrise. This 7-hour private charter from Roland Marinaix in Ta’ Xbiex is built around skippers like Sebastian or Jake, who know where to put you and what to use, plus top-grade tackle that helps even first-timers get into the action. The one thing to watch is space, they take up to 5 but they also note it can get cramped if you’re more than four when you’re battling bigger fish.
You’ll meet at 6:00 am, and that early start matters in Malta when you’re trying to hit the water before the day heats up. There’s also a bonus option if you want it: tell them in advance and your freshly caught fish can be cooked at a fine dining restaurant, turning your effort into a real sit-down meal. I like that the crew works around your timing and keeps things safe, but you’ll want to plan for seasickness if that’s your thing.
In This Review
- Ta’ Xbiex starts here: Roland Marinaix and the 6am rhythm
- Private boat, real crew help, and how the day flows
- Gear, bait, and the spot-finding that makes or breaks fishing
- What you can realistically catch in Malta waters
- After the catch: fine-dining cook-up and fish prep details
- Comfort and safety on board: what crowding feels like
- When the fish are on: how fast action usually feels
- Weather, refunds, and what to do if conditions turn
- Value check: what $65 buys for 7 hours in Ta’ Xbiex
- Who should book this charter
- Should you book Big Game Fishing Adventures?
- FAQ
- Where is the meeting point for Fishing Charters in Ta’ Xbiex?
- What time does the fishing charter start?
- How long is the charter?
- Is this a private tour or shared?
- How many people can be on board?
- Can I choose to have my catch cooked after the trip?
- What is the cancellation policy?
- What happens if the trip is canceled due to poor weather?
- When will I receive confirmation after booking?
Ta’ Xbiex starts here: Roland Marinaix and the 6am rhythm

Your day begins in Ta’ Xbiex at Roland Marinaix-Xatt Ta’ Xbiex. Expect a meet-up around 6:00 am, and yes, you should take the early part seriously. Multiple experiences describe quick momentum once you’re headed out, with people reporting first tuna action shortly after departure.
This time also helps you avoid the midday sun and makes the trip feel like a full morning mission, not a late-day half effort. One smart Malta tip from past trips: bring plenty of sunblock and sun protection. The water and light can be deceiving, and you will be out long enough to feel it.
Private boat, real crew help, and how the day flows

This is a private tour, meaning only your group is on board. The operator accepts up to 5 people, but they recommend keeping it to 4 or fewer for comfort, especially when bigger fish start running and you need to move fast. If you like space and easy rod work, that recommendation is worth listening to.
The crew provides the fishing gear, and the emphasis is on you being able to actually fish, not just hold a rod and hope. In practice, that means help when you’re new, guidance when you’re unsure, and steady support throughout the fight and landing. If you’re coming with non-fishing friends, this setup tends to work because the crew can keep everyone included.
A small detail I appreciate is the flexibility around meeting times. While many trips start at 6:00 am, they say they can arrange a convenient meet time for your schedule, which is useful if you’re juggling a tight Malta itinerary.
More Boat Charters in Malta:
Gear, bait, and the spot-finding that makes or breaks fishing

Big game fishing is mostly about location and timing, and the best charters make it feel like they have a map to fish. The standout strength here is that skippers like Sebastian and Jake consistently show skill at finding productive spots. That shows up in reviews through fast action and the feeling that the boat is always working toward the next bite, not just drifting around.
They also stress using quality equipment and bait. In plain terms, good tackle helps with two things: controlling lines when fish fight hard, and reducing frustration when you’re trying to set up properly. If you’ve never fished before, that matters, because landing is its own mini-skill, not just the moment the fish bites.
One more reality check: even with great gear and good spots, you might not catch as much as you hoped. Fishing is fishing. What helps this charter is that the crew seems invested in your success, with hands-on help when people struggle.
What you can realistically catch in Malta waters

Based on what’s been reported, you’re looking at a mix that can include tuna (including giant bluefin tuna), bonito, and mahi mahi. There are also sightings that go beyond fishing, including dolphins spotted on some days. That’s not guaranteed, but it’s a nice reminder that you’re on the Mediterranean, not inside a simulator.
Because this is a big game style charter, the fights can be intense. If you’re a first-timer, that can be half the fun, because you go from unsure to actively involved fast. The crew’s help with lifting and managing fish also makes it more realistic to participate fully, even if you’ve never done it before.
If you care about keeping fish, plan to talk with the crew about what you’ll do with your catch. Some trips mention releasing fish based on guidance they received, and others mention the chance to take certain fish home. The key is that you should communicate your preference early and follow local instructions they give on the water.
After the catch: fine-dining cook-up and fish prep details
One of the reasons this charter draws attention is the option to have your catch cooked at a fine dining restaurant. The operator says to let them know in advance if you want this extra. In other words, it’s not just a random add-on after you’re tired and hungry, it’s something you should request when you book or shortly before the trip.
In a perfect world, that means you bring home the fish and end the day with a properly handled meal, not a messy kitchen project. Some experiences also mention the skipper preparing fish so you can eat it at home stress-free, including filleting.
Now, the balanced part. There has been at least one complaint about miscommunication around the barbecue or cooking arrangements. My advice is simple: confirm the exact cooking option you want before you go, ideally in advance and clearly. If you want the fine dining route, ask what you should expect and when they’ll coordinate it.
Comfort and safety on board: what crowding feels like
Let’s talk about the space issue honestly. They accept up to 5 people, but they also say they don’t recommend more than four because the boat can get crowded during the fight and when you need to move around quickly. That’s not just a comfort detail, it affects how easy it is to reel, land, and keep everyone safe.
From a safety standpoint, reviews point to good equipment and a professional skipper style. People also mention feeling confident with the crew’s experience at sea. Still, you should be ready for real boat movement, salt spray, and the kind of physical focus needed when a fish takes the line.
If you’re prone to motion sickness, keep that in mind. At least one trip included a guest feeling sea sick on a second outing. You can’t control the sea, but you can control preparation, like bringing your usual sea-sickness solution and keeping your expectations realistic.
More fishing trips out of Malta:
- Blue Grotto & Sunday Market at Marsaxlokk Fishing Village★ 3.6 · 803 reviews
- Blue Grotto and Sunday Market at Marsaxlokk Fishing Village Tour★ 3.0 · 65 reviews
- Fisher’s Trek: Cominotto Island, Prime Fishing Spots & Gozo★ 5.0 · 6 reviews
When the fish are on: how fast action usually feels
The best moments tend to come in waves: first bites, a flurry of hookups, then the day steadies out again. One reported pattern includes first tuna action around 6:45, followed by multiple tuna hookups through the late morning window. Another experience highlights variety across the trip, with different fish being targeted and caught.
What’s consistent is the crew’s rhythm. They keep working the water, adjust as needed, and help you stay engaged rather than waiting idly. Even when a person struggles with landing, the crew guidance is part of the value, not an afterthought.
Also, there’s a social element. Some skippers bring humor and conversation, with one review calling out songs and good chat. Fishing days go smoother when the vibe is calm, and this crew seems to understand that.
Weather, refunds, and what to do if conditions turn
This charter requires good weather. If conditions cause cancellation, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. That’s the kind of policy you want to see for a trip that depends on sea conditions.
If you’re traveling with multiple plans, keep flexibility. Early mornings are easier when you’re not locked into something later the same day. If the weather doesn’t cooperate, you want a buffer so you can shift without stressing.
Value check: what $65 buys for 7 hours in Ta’ Xbiex

The price listed is $65 for about 7 hours, and the main value is what’s included and how it’s run. You’re not just paying for time on a boat, you’re paying for a crew that actively searches spots, provides equipment and bait, and supports you through fights and landing.
The private format also matters. In a shared tour, you can end up watching more than fishing if space is tight. Here, the charter is geared for your group, with guidance so even beginners can get hands-on.
Then add the optional bonus: the fine dining cook-up of your catch. Even if you don’t choose it, the fact that it’s part of the service shows they’re thinking about the full experience, catch to meal. Just remember to lock in details early, given at least one past miscommunication about cooking.
Who should book this charter
This is a great pick if you want big game fishing without a learning curve that ruins your day. If you’re a total beginner, the crew support and included gear can make the trip click quickly. It also suits groups that want their own private space and a more personal vibe than a crowded shared boat.
It may not be your best match if you’re traveling with a larger group and can’t compromise on space, since the operator notes crowding after four people. And if you have very limited mobility, you might find a fishing-focused boat environment a bit busy, even with a professional crew.
Should you book Big Game Fishing Adventures?
Yes, I’d book it if your goal is a real shot at tuna and other big-fish action, with a crew that pays attention to both technique and your experience. The combination of strong spot-finding, quality gear, and hands-on help for first-timers is the winning formula.
Do one thing before you go: decide early whether you want the fine dining cook-up, and confirm the plan clearly. If you want a calm, comfortable boat day, keep your group to four or fewer. If you can do those two things, this charter is a smart way to turn a Ta’ Xbiex morning into a story you’ll keep telling.
FAQ
Where is the meeting point for Fishing Charters in Ta’ Xbiex?
You meet at Roland Marinaix-Xatt Ta’ Xbiex, Ta’ Xbiex, Malta. The trip ends back at the meeting point.
What time does the fishing charter start?
The start time listed is 6:00 am.
How long is the charter?
The duration is about 7 hours.
Is this a private tour or shared?
It is a private tour/activity. Only your group participates.
How many people can be on board?
The charter accepts up to 5 people on board, but they recommend no more than 4 to avoid crowding when battling larger fish.
Can I choose to have my catch cooked after the trip?
Yes. You have the option to have the freshly caught fish cooked at a fine dining restaurant, and you should let them know in advance if you want this extra.
What is the cancellation policy?
Free cancellation is available. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience starts, the amount paid will not be refunded.
What happens if the trip is canceled due to poor weather?
The experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
When will I receive confirmation after booking?
You should receive confirmation within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability.
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