Private boat Charters around Malta, Gozo & Comino

You get the sea, minus the crowd. This is a private boat charter that lets you pick your pace around Comino caves and Gozo bays, with swimming breaks built into the route. The big trade-off is simple: it’s weather dependent, so if conditions are off, you will need a different date or a refund.

I love the practical mix of comfort and freedom here. MV INGE III is a 43-foot (13m) motor cruiser with a rustic mahogany interior and teak decking, plus shaded areas, a sundeck, a bathing platform, two rest rooms, and a fresh water shower. I also like that the package goes past “look from the deck,” because you get masks and snorkels, swimming aids, a kayak, SUP, and paddle board, along with bottled water, ice, and a cooler.

One more thing to consider before you fall in love with the idea: the boat’s size and rules matter for planning. The vessel is licensed and insured for up to 35 persons, but the charter info also notes a typical maximum of 20 to 25, while the price is listed per group up to 15.

Key highlights to know before you go

• MV INGE III charm: 13m motor cruiser built in Venice with teak decking and a classic mahogany interior
• Built-in swimming time at Comino and Gozo stops, with multiple lagoon and bay options
• Free gear for the water: masks, snorkels, swimming aids, kayak, SUP, and paddle board
• Comfort you actually use: shaded seating, sundeck space, bathing platform, two rest rooms, and fresh water shower
• Captain-led route flexibility: expect cruising around corners plus cave and landmark spotting
• Two day modes: morning or afternoon cruises, or a sunset option from 5pm to 9pm

MV INGE III: a classic 13m cruiser that feels made for slow travel

This charter is centered on MV INGE III, a 43-foot (13m) motor cruiser pleasure boat built in Venice, Italy by C. Rio boat builders. The boat’s look is more “old-world calm” than “sporty speedboat,” thanks to the rustic mahogany interior and teak decking. If you care about photos, that wood-and-teak vibe helps in a way that sterile boats just do not.

Inside and out, the design supports long stretches on the water without feeling cramped. You get a shaded area when the sun is strong, plus open sun deck space when you want to work on that Malta glow. There’s also a bathing platform, which is one of those details that makes swimming breaks easier. Instead of awkward steps, you can get in and out more smoothly.

The onboard setup also matters when you are booking a private group. You are not sharing space with strangers. The charter is fully private, meaning only your group participates. That changes the mood quickly, especially for families, couples on a special trip, or friends who just want a consistent day at sea.

The Comino and Gozo route: how the day is paced

Your day is built around a simple reality in Malta: the best swimming coves and views often need a boat to reach them safely and easily. This charter’s route is designed for that. You typically cruise around Comino and stop at places like the Blue Lagoon, Crystal Lagoon, St Mary Bay, St Nicholas Bay, plus some Gozo bays.

The length can be 2 to 4 hours, depending on the timing you choose. Morning or afternoon cruises usually start around 9am or 10am, while the sunset cruise runs from 5pm until 9pm. The longer window at sunset is key if you want a slower pace, more time for photos, and more chances to find the water conditions you like.

You do not just “arrive at one spot and wait.” You also cruise the coast, with cave observations around Comino and landmark sighting along the way. That cruising time is not wasted either. It gives you context for what you are seeing when you finally stop to swim and snorkel.

And yes, the whole experience ends back at the meeting point. That matters because it removes one big stress, you are not coordinating complicated transfers after the boat ride.

Comino stop: caves, landmarks, and lagoon time that works for snorkelers

Comino is the star when you want clear water and classic lagoon scenery, and your charter treats it like that. The Comino portion is designed specifically for snorkelers, with the chance to swim at the Blue Lagoon, Crystal Lagoon, St Nicholas Bay, and St Mary Bay.

There is also a “moving viewing” element here. While you are traveling around the island, you get to observe Comino caves and see landmarks such as Elephant rock, St Mary Battery, and St Mary Tower. That is a nice balance: you get both the postcard sights and the active water time.

If you are snorkeling, this is the part of the day where the gear really earns its keep. Masks and snorkels are included for free, along with swimming aids. In plain terms, this is the sort of charter where you do not need to show up with your own full kit unless you are picky about gear.

If you are not snorkeling, you still benefit. SUP, kayak, and paddle board are included, and you can use those in the quiet periods between stops or in calmer bays. The bathing platform helps with quick, easy entries for swims too.

Possible drawback: Comino is popular, so your best experience depends on timing and conditions. The captain’s job is to place you at the right spots at the right time, but you should be ready for the fact that wind and wave height can shift the “best” plan during the day.

Gozo by boat: reach coastlines and swim spots you cannot drive to

The Gozo portion focuses less on one big iconic lagoon and more on hidden shoreline access, reached only by boat. You get a cruising approach that prioritizes multiple swimming and snorkeling opportunities, including bays that are only accessible from the water.

This is where the day becomes more varied. Comino often feels like a color-and-cave playground, while Gozo can feel more like coastline exploration. Even with the same included snorkel gear, your mood changes because you are not stuck repeating the same view.

Another practical point: a boat charter saves you the hassle of moving between scattered shoreline points on foot or by car. You show up, you get on board, and the coast comes to you. It’s a simple swap, more time in the water, less time on logistics.

If you want a helpful plan for your day, focus on timing. Gozo swimming tends to feel better when you have breaks from sun exposure, and the boat’s shaded area gives you a place to recover between dips.

Included onboard: what you get for your money, and why it matters

The included items here are not just “nice to have.” They solve the usual problems that make boat days annoying.

Included:

• Free masks and snorkels, plus swimming aids
• Kayak, SUP, and paddle board (so you are not limited to swimming only)
• Bottled water and a large cooler with ice flakes and ice cubes
• Fuel, skipper, and crew included
• Music via bluetooth, AUX, and USB
• Shaded area, sundeck, bathing platform
• Fresh water shower and two rest rooms
• Onboard comfort space and seating (listed as accommodation)
• Private charter for your group only

This package is built for groups who want to do things, not just sit. SUP and paddle board add a low-effort way to “move around” without being an expert swimmer. The kayak option can work well for people who want to stay a bit more controlled near the shoreline.

Music support is also surprisingly important. If you want a mellow soundtrack for swimming and photos, you can use your own playlists through bluetooth, AUX, or USB. It helps the boat feel like your private space, not a silent tour vehicle.

What is not included: lunch. That affects what you should pack. You are welcome to bring your own food, snacks, and drinks onboard, which is a smart setup for picky eaters, families, or anyone who wants control over timing.

What it feels like on board: the captain and crew experience

The overall vibe is guided, but not rigid. A skilled captain-led day changes everything when you are working with water conditions and finding the best “jump in” spots.

The name you will hear is Joseph, and people consistently describe him as a skilled captain and host who knows where the best turquoise water and coastline views are, including grotto areas around Comino and Gozo. I also like that the crew approach is practical and responsive, especially for timing. If a cruise ship schedule shifts and shortens the day, Joseph and the team work with you to adjust the plan.

You’ll also get real-time guidance about what to do next. That includes simple swim planning and helpful suggestions off the boat, such as restaurant recommendations for Gozo when you want to extend the experience after cruising.

And the boat itself is repeatedly described as clean and easy to enjoy for photos, with plenty of space to settle in.

Sunset cruise timing: 5pm to 9pm is when the day softens

The sunset option runs from 5pm until 9pm, and that longer window changes how you experience the water. Morning cruises tend to feel energetic and sun-forward. Sunset cruises feel like slow motion: more time to roam between bays and more chances to find the light you want for photos.

If you are planning a special occasion, this is the best match. You can turn it into a relaxed dinner cruise even though lunch is not included. The key is that you are allowed to bring your own food and drinks onboard, so you can set up your own plan rather than being forced into prepackaged meals.

The music system also shines here. A quiet playlist as the sun drops across the coast is one of those “this is why we travel” moments you cannot recreate on a crowded day tour.

Price and value: $1,137.10 per group up to 15

The listed price is $1,137.10 per group, up to 15 people. For a private boat charter, that can feel high at first glance, until you break down what’s included and how you would otherwise spend money in Malta.

You are getting:

• A private boat experience (your group only)
• Fuel plus skipper and crew
• Snorkeling gear and water toys (kayak, SUP, paddle board)
• Bottled water, cooler with ice
• Bathroom facilities and fresh water shower
• A route that covers both Comino and Gozo areas depending on the cruise format

For families or friend groups, the value is strongest when everyone splits the cost, especially if you would otherwise pay for multiple separate tours or rent equipment. If you are traveling as a couple and the boat can accommodate more, you might feel the cost more. That said, a private charter still pays off if you want control over swim stops, timing, and the vibe on the boat.

One planning note: the charter info mentions maximum persons of 20 to 25, while the listing price is up to 15 for group booking. If you are considering a larger group, confirm the practical headcount you want before you pay so expectations match the comfort level you are aiming for.

Where you start: Cirkewwa in Malta and Mgarr Harbour in Gozo

Your departure depends on the itinerary you choose. You can depart from Cirkewwa in Malta or from Mgarr Harbour in Gozo. The experience ends back at the meeting point, so you avoid that “now what” feeling after the boat ride.

There’s also an opening-hours window of 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM and 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM (with the sunset cruise aligning to the evening slot). Your start time request matters, and the charter runs with morning/afternoon options starting around 9am or 10am, plus the fixed sunset window.

One last practical detail: you’ll receive a mobile ticket, which is convenient and cuts down on paper handling when you are moving around Malta.

Who should book this charter

This is a strong fit if you want:

• A private boat day around Comino and Gozo, with multiple swimming breaks
• Included snorkeling and water toys so you can go straight to the fun
• A captain who handles route planning and timing, especially when schedules shift
• Comfort features that make it easier for mixed groups (sundeck, shaded area, fresh water shower, two rest rooms)

It is also a good match for:

• Couples on a special trip who want a romantic, uncrowded route
• Families who value easy boarding and a predictable return to the meeting point
• Anyone who cares about photos, since you will be stopping and moving with clear sightlines along the coast

If you are only looking for one quick stop and you do not care about snorkels or water toys, you might find a shorter, cheaper public option. But if you want a true private day at sea, this is built for it.

Should you book the private boat charter around Malta, Gozo, and Comino?

If you want the best parts of Malta’s water without the crowd energy, I think this charter is an easy yes. The biggest reasons are the practical inclusions, not just the views: free masks and snorkels, swimming aids, and the water toys like SUP and kayak. Add onboard comfort (shaded areas, sundeck, bathing platform, fresh shower, two rest rooms) and you have a setup that works from start to finish.

Book it when your group is willing to split the cost and you care about quality time in the water. Consider booking the sunset option if you want a slower, photo-friendly mood from 5pm to 9pm.

Your main reason to hesitate is weather. Since the experience requires good weather, you should plan for flexibility. If you can roll with that, you will get exactly what you came for: classic Comino lagoon scenery, Gozo coastline access, and a private boat day that feels like your own.

FAQ

What is the duration of the private boat charter?

The charter runs about 2 to 4 hours, depending on the cruise you choose.

Where do the cruises depart from?

You depart from Cirkewwa in Malta or from Mgarr Harbour in Gozo, depending on the option you book.

What time options are available?

Morning or afternoon cruises typically start at 9am or 10am. The sunset cruise runs from 5pm to 9pm.

Is lunch included?

No, lunch is not included. You are welcome to bring your own food, snacks, or drinks onboard.

What is included with the charter?

Included items cover masks and snorkels, swimming aids, kayak, SUP, and paddle board, plus bottled water and a cooler with ice. Fuel, skipper, and crew are also included, along with music (bluetooth, AUX, USB), shaded area, sundeck, bathing platform, two rest rooms, and a fresh water shower.

What happens if the weather is poor?

The experience requires good weather. If it is canceled due to poor weather, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.