Best Places to Visit by Boat in Malta, Gozo and Comino

Malta is made to be discovered from the sea. With crystal-clear water, dramatic limestone cliffs, hidden caves, quiet bays and world-famous swimming spots, a private boat trip gives you the freedom to enjoy the islands from a completely different perspective.

Whether you are planning a relaxing day with family, a romantic sunset cruise, a fun trip with friends, a yacht charter, a sailing experience, a self-drive boat rental or a full-day sea adventure, there are plenty of beautiful places to explore around Malta, Gozo and Comino.

Below are some of the best places to visit by boat in Malta.

1. Blue Lagoon, Comino

Blue Lagoon is one of the most famous boat destinations in Malta, known for its bright turquoise water and sandy seabed. Located between Comino and Cominotto, it is a favourite stop for swimming, snorkelling, relaxing and taking photos.

It is ideal for:

• Swimming in clear shallow water
• Snorkelling
• Private boat trips
• Family boat days
• Group charters
• Summer sea adventures

Because Blue Lagoon can get busy during peak season, visiting by private boat gives you more flexibility with timing and route planning. Visit Malta describes Blue Lagoon as reachable by ferry and boat trips, often combined with cave tours and time to swim.

2. Crystal Lagoon, Comino

Crystal Lagoon is another spectacular spot near Comino and is often loved by those who want something slightly quieter and more dramatic than Blue Lagoon. It is surrounded by high cliffs, deep blue water and beautiful caves.

This is a great choice for:

• Snorkelling
• Swimming stops
• Cliff views
• Scenic photography
• Private yacht charters
• Adventure-style boat trips

Crystal Lagoon is especially beautiful on a sunny day when the water colour changes between deep blue and turquoise.

3. Comino Sea Caves

A boat trip around Comino is not complete without passing by the sea caves. These natural caves and rock formations are one of the most scenic parts of the island and are best enjoyed from the water.

They are ideal for:

• Sightseeing
• Photography
• Short scenic stops
• Speedboat trips
• Private charters around Comino

Many Comino boat routes combine Blue Lagoon, Crystal Lagoon and the sea caves in one itinerary, making this one of the best full-day or half-day boat experiences in Malta. Boat activity listings commonly combine Comino, Blue Lagoon, Crystal Lagoon and sea caves in one route.

4. Santa Marija Bay, Comino

Santa Marija Bay is a quieter bay on Comino, ideal for those who prefer a more peaceful stop away from the busiest swimming areas. It offers a more relaxed setting and is suitable for a slower boat day.

Best for:

• Relaxing swims
• Family-friendly stops
• Calm sea breaks
• Picnics on board
• Quieter Comino visits

This bay is perfect if you want to enjoy Comino without spending the whole day in the busiest areas.

5. Gozo by Boat

Gozo is a fantastic destination for a longer boat trip. The coastline offers beautiful bays, dramatic cliffs, clear water and charming views. A Gozo boat trip can be combined with Comino, depending on the duration of the charter.

Popular Gozo-style experiences include:

• Coastal sightseeing
• Swimming stops
• Snorkelling
• Lunch on board
• Private full-day charters
• Gozo and Comino combination trips

Gozo is ideal for guests who want a more complete island-hopping experience.

6. Ħondoq ir-Rummien, Gozo

Ħondoq ir-Rummien is a beautiful bay in Gozo with clear water and lovely views towards Comino. It is a popular swimming and snorkelling area, especially when sea conditions are calm.

It is ideal for:

• Swimming
• Snorkelling
• Relaxed boat stops
• Families
• Gozo and Comino routes

This is a lovely choice for a boat day that combines scenic cruising with time in the water.

7. St Peter’s Pool

St Peter’s Pool, located near Marsaxlokk, is one of Malta’s most popular natural swimming spots. It is known for its flat limestone rocks, deep clear water and natural pool shape.

It is ideal for:

• Swimming
• Scenic boat stops
• South Malta boat routes
• Photography
• Adventurous swimmers

St Peter’s Pool is especially popular with guests who want to explore the south of Malta by sea. It is often highlighted as one of Malta’s notable rocky swimming spots.

8. Blue Grotto and Wied iż-Żurrieq

The Blue Grotto area is one of Malta’s most impressive coastal locations. Known for its sea caves, deep blue water and high cliffs, it is a beautiful place to experience by boat when sea conditions allow.

Best for:

• Scenic cruising
• Cave views
• Photography
• Romantic boat trips
• South coast itineraries

This area is ideal for guests who love dramatic scenery and natural beauty.

9. Għar Lapsi

Għar Lapsi is a charming coastal area with clear water, rocky surroundings and a more traditional Maltese seaside feel. It is a great choice for those who want a quieter, less commercial stop.

Ideal for:

• Swimming
• Snorkelling
• Relaxing by the coast
• Scenic boat routes
• Smaller private trips

It is a beautiful option for those looking for a more local and peaceful experience.

10. Golden Bay and Għajn Tuffieħa

Golden Bay and Għajn Tuffieħa are among Malta’s most beautiful sandy beach areas. From the sea, the cliffs and coastline around this part of Malta are especially attractive.

These locations are ideal for:

• Sunset cruises
• Coastal sightseeing
• Swimming stops
• Romantic boat trips
• Relaxed afternoon charters

The Malta Tourism Authority highlights Malta’s variety of swimming spots, including sandy beaches, rocky shores and crystal-clear Mediterranean waters.

11. Paradise Bay

Paradise Bay, close to Ċirkewwa, is a lovely northern Malta stop with beautiful water and views towards Gozo and Comino. It is a good option for shorter routes or charters departing from the north.

Best for:

• Short boat trips
• Swimming
• Snorkelling
• North Malta routes
• Comino combination trips

Its location makes it a practical and scenic stop when planning a northern Malta boat itinerary.

12. Valletta Grand Harbour

For something different, Valletta Grand Harbour offers a beautiful cultural and historic boat experience. Instead of hidden beaches and swimming stops, this route focuses on fortifications, harbour views and Malta’s historic skyline.

Ideal for:

• Sightseeing cruises
• Corporate outings
• Evening charters
• Photography
• Guests interested in Malta’s history

A harbour cruise can also be a great choice for private events, sunset drinks or a more elegant boat experience.

13. Sliema, St Julian’s and the East Coast

The coastline around Sliema, St Julian’s and the east of Malta is ideal for shorter boat trips, coastal cruising and sunset experiences. It is also convenient for guests staying in popular tourist areas.

Best for:

• Sunset cruises
• Short private charters
• Evening boat trips
• Birthday celebrations
• Hen and bachelor parties
• Corporate sea outings

This area is a strong option if you want a boat experience without travelling far from the main accommodation areas.

14. Anchor Bay and Popeye Village Coastline

Anchor Bay is a colourful and scenic stop known for its unique coastal setting. From the sea, the area offers lovely views and is often included in northern Malta routes.

Ideal for:

• Sightseeing
• Photography
• Family trips
• Short scenic stops
• Northern coast boat tours

It is especially nice for guests who want a mix of fun, scenery and photo opportunities.

15. Sunset Cruise Spots Around Malta

A sunset cruise is one of the most beautiful ways to enjoy Malta by boat. Depending on the departure point and sea conditions, sunset routes can include the north coast, Comino area, Sliema coastline, Valletta Harbour or western Malta.

A sunset boat trip is perfect for:

• Couples
• Anniversaries
• Proposals
• Small groups
• Private celebrations
• Relaxed evening charters

The golden light, sea views and calm atmosphere make this one of the most memorable boat experiences in Malta.

Best Boat Trip Ideas by Occasion

For Families

Blue Lagoon, Santa Marija Bay, Paradise Bay and Ħondoq ir-Rummien are great options for families who want swimming, clear water and relaxed stops.

For Couples

Sunset cruises, Valletta Harbour, Crystal Lagoon and the west coast are ideal for romantic boat experiences.

For Groups and Celebrations

Comino, Blue Lagoon, Gozo combination trips, Sliema coastal cruises and private yacht charters are excellent for birthdays, hen parties, bachelor parties and group events.

For Adventure Lovers

Comino caves, Crystal Lagoon, St Peter’s Pool, Blue Grotto and snorkelling stops are perfect for those who want a more active day at sea.

For Luxury Yacht Charters

Gozo, Comino, Blue Lagoon, Crystal Lagoon and sunset routes work beautifully for luxury private yacht experiences.

What to Consider Before Choosing Your Boat Route

The best place to visit by boat in Malta depends on the weather, sea conditions, departure point, group size, boat type and how much time you have available.

Before booking, consider:

• How many hours you want at sea
• Whether you prefer swimming or sightseeing
• Whether you want a private or shared experience
• The number of guests
• Your preferred departure location
• Whether you want food, drinks or extra services
• Whether you prefer a relaxed or adventurous route

A flexible boat rental or private charter allows you to plan the experience around your group and the conditions on the day.

Why Book a Boat Trip in Malta?

A boat trip gives you the freedom to discover places that are difficult to fully appreciate from land. You can swim in clearer water, reach hidden bays, enjoy quiet moments away from busy beaches and experience Malta’s coastline from the best possible angle.

Whether you choose a self-drive boat, sailing boat, private yacht charter, catamaran, sunset cruise or full-day boat rental, Malta offers unforgettable sea experiences for every type of guest.

Contact Malta Boat Rent

Planning a boat day in Malta, Gozo or Comino?

Contact us and tell us what type of experience you are looking for. Whether you want a private boat rental, yacht charter, sailing trip, sunset cruise, water sports experience or a tailor-made sea adventure, our team will help you find the right option for your group, budget and occasion.