Reviewed · COMINO & THE BLUE LAGOON CRUISES

Malta Gozo Comino: Full Day Sailing Charter

★ 4.9 · 15 reviews 8 hours From $823 Operated by Island Quest Boat Charters · Bookable on GetYourGuide
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Sailing is the fastest way to see Malta. This 8-hour private sail puts you right in front of Gozo and Comino’s cliffs and coves, with multiple water stops so you’re not just staring from the shore.

I especially like the mix of comfort and play: you get full access to a 3-cabin sailboat, plus snorkeling gear, a kayak, and paddle board time. And the day can include a proper onboard meal, since the BBQ is set up for you as long as you bring food.

One thing to consider is price: at $823 per group (up to 11 people), it’s best when you fill the group or you’re traveling with friends/family who will actually use the toys and time in the water.

Key things I’d plan around

Malta Gozo Comino: Full Day Sailing Charter - Key things I’d plan around

  • A 14-meter sailboat with full use of all three cabins
  • Swim stops built into the day, not just one quick splash
  • Gozo and Comino coast by boat, including secluded coves
  • Skipper Peter’s relaxed, patient style even when wind shows up
  • Onboard water toys: snorkel gear, kayak, paddle board
  • Bring-your-own food for the BBQ, plus Prosecco and snacks

More Comino and Blue Lagoon boat trips we have swum and snorkelled off

Why Gozo and Comino Feel Bigger From a Sailboat

Malta Gozo Comino: Full Day Sailing Charter - Why Gozo and Comino Feel Bigger From a Sailboat
On a boat, Malta’s drama comes fast. You’re facing the limestone cliffs and sea-carved coastline from a perspective you just can’t get from land. Instead of repeating the same viewpoint circuit, you move along the coast and end up at water spots that are easiest to reach by boat.

What makes this charter work so well is the pacing. It’s not a rushed tour where you’re constantly hopping up for photos. You get time to cool off, snorkel, and explore around the shoreline at your own speed during the stops. That’s how the day turns from sightseeing into a real experience.

I also like that the plan is built around crystal-clear lagoons and private coves. Even when the weather isn’t perfect, the sea can still be gorgeous close to the boat, and the skipper can steer the day toward the best conditions available.

The 14-Meter Boat Comfort: Cabins, Hammock Time, and Space to Breathe

Malta Gozo Comino: Full Day Sailing Charter - The 14-Meter Boat Comfort: Cabins, Hammock Time, and Space to Breathe
This is a well-equipped 14-meter sailboat with three cabins, and you have full access. That matters more than you might think. When you’re out for 8 hours, you want places to rest that aren’t just the deck in full sun. You can regroup, dry off, and get out of the wind when you need a breather.

There’s also a hammock for that slow, stop-for-a-moment feeling. Add the calming motion of the rocking waves, and you’ve got a floating refuge from the heat and noise you might deal with on land.

And then there are the practical “good day at sea” details: the boat is stocked with the snorkeling equipment, plus a paddle board and kayak for you to use during the swim stops. You’re not waiting around for a separate activity, and you’re not stuck with one option all day.

Where You Board: Marfa Jetty or Mgarr Harbor (Gozo)

Malta Gozo Comino: Full Day Sailing Charter - Where You Board: Marfa Jetty or Mgarr Harbor (Gozo)
The charter departs from either Marfa Jetty or Mgarr Harbor in Gozo. That gives you flexibility depending on where you’re staying.

If you’re basing yourself in Gozo, Mgarr Harbor is usually the simpler start. If you’re coming from Malta, Marfa Jetty can save time. Either way, the schedule is set for an 8-hour outing, with starting times checked based on availability.

One small but real convenience: you can skip the ticket line, which helps keep the morning from turning into a waiting game.

Cruising Gozo’s Coast: Cliffs, Caves, and Boat-Only Bays

Malta Gozo Comino: Full Day Sailing Charter - Cruising Gozo’s Coast: Cliffs, Caves, and Boat-Only Bays
The day’s structure is built around cruising along Gozo’s coastline and stopping at secluded bays only accessible by boat. That’s the whole point of a charter like this: you’re not limited to the spots everyone can walk to.

During the ride, you get views of the soaring cliffs and sea-carved coastline. It’s the kind of sight that makes you slow down your phone scrolling and just look—especially when you see the water color change from deeper blue to pale green near shallows.

At the swim stops, you’ll have plenty of time to explore caves and marine life around the stops. Snorkeling gear is included, so you can switch from “watching the boat” to “looking underwater” without extra steps. If you’d rather stay on the surface, you can still use the paddle board or kayak when conditions allow.

A practical tip: if the day feels windy early on, it’s still often workable. A good skipper can adjust how and where you spend your time so the swimming still happens.

Comino Water Play: Snorkel Gear, Paddle Board, and Kayak Time

Malta Gozo Comino: Full Day Sailing Charter - Comino Water Play: Snorkel Gear, Paddle Board, and Kayak Time
Comino is where the water turns into the main event. The charter description is clear about crystal-clear lagoons and private coves, and the time you get makes them worth it.

This is the part of the day that turns into a mix-and-match schedule:

  • snorkel when you want to look around
  • paddle board when you want a slow glide
  • kayak when you want a more hands-on paddle adventure

And because you’re on a private charter (up to 11 people), you’re not managing a large crowd schedule. That’s a big deal if you’re traveling with kids, older family, or a group with different energy levels.

If you’re the type who loves being in the water but not necessarily doing one “tour activity,” this style works well. It’s not a single fixed stop with a strict return time the whole group follows. You get multiple swim stops, so you can find your rhythm.

BBQ on the Water: Bring Food, Grill Onboard, Relax

Malta Gozo Comino: Full Day Sailing Charter - BBQ on the Water: Bring Food, Grill Onboard, Relax
The charter includes a BBQ setup, but you bring your own food to grill. That’s actually a nice tradeoff. You control what you eat, and it keeps dietary preferences and budget under your control.

Along with the BBQ, you’ll have water, soft drinks, snacks, and Prosecco included. So you’re not scrambling for drinks or paying extra at a café mid-adventure.

I also like the “the skipper handles the setup” approach. In at least some experiences like this, the skipper has cooked and grilled the food for the group, which turns the meal into part of the relaxation instead of another task for you.

Wind, Waves, and the Real-Life Sailing Factor

This is the one part of sea days you can’t fully control. Wind can change ride comfort and can affect when it’s easiest to swim or use the water toys. That’s why the skipper’s judgment matters.

In real-world experience, the skipper is described as able to keep the day enjoyable even when wind comes up. That’s a strong sign, because it means the charter isn’t just about calm-sea fantasy. It’s about staying flexible and still getting you in the water.

What you should do as the rider: pack for sun and spray. Even if the air is warm, sea wind can cool you down fast after you swim. A simple layer for after-water time can make the day feel twice as comfortable.

Price and Value: $823 for Up to 11 People

Malta Gozo Comino: Full Day Sailing Charter - Price and Value: $823 for Up to 11 People
At $823 per group up to 11, the value depends heavily on how many people are actually on board with you. If you fill the group, the per-person cost can drop to a surprisingly reasonable range for a private 8-hour charter with a 14-meter boat and included gear.

To judge value fairly, look at what’s included:

  • fuel and port fees
  • skipper
  • snorkeling equipment, paddle board, and kayak
  • water, soft drinks, snacks, and Prosecco
  • BBQ setup (bring your own food)

When all of that is bundled into a private day, you’re paying for convenience and time. You don’t have to coordinate multiple activities, transport between spots, or rentals for gear. You get one consistent plan and one “home base” boat for the whole day.

Also, you have planning flexibility: free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund and a reserve now & pay later option. That reduces the risk if the weather or schedules shift.

Who This Sailing Charter Suits Best

Malta Gozo Comino: Full Day Sailing Charter - Who This Sailing Charter Suits Best
This charter fits best if you want a day that feels like hanging out with purpose. It’s ideal for:

  • families and mixed-age groups who need both calm time and water time
  • friend groups splitting costs on a private boat
  • anyone who wants Gozo and Comino from the sea rather than repeating land viewpoints

It’s also a strong choice if you like options. Some people in your group might snorkel and explore caves. Others might prefer the kayak or paddle board. And when you’re done, you can retreat to the cabins or relax on deck.

Should You Book This Malta–Gozo–Comino Sailing Charter?

If your goal is a true private sea day—multiple swim stops, snorkeling gear, and water toys—this is the kind of charter that makes sense. The price is high on paper, but it’s structured for a group up to 11, and it includes real extras like BBQ setup, drinks, and equipment.

I’d book it if:

  • you can bring a group (or you’re okay paying a higher per-person rate for privacy)
  • you want Gozo and Comino mainly from the water
  • you’d actually use the kayak/paddle board and snorkeling gear

I’d think twice if:

  • you want a very strict, scripted itinerary with named stops (this day is more about flexible coves and swim time)
  • your group is set on minimal time in the water

FAQ

How long is the Malta Gozo Comino sailing charter?

It’s a full day sailing charter lasting 8 hours.

What size group can this charter accommodate?

The charter price is per group up to 11 people.

How big is the sailboat?

The boat is a 14-meter sailboat with three cabins.

Where do you depart from?

Departures are from Marfa Jetty or Mgarr Harbor in Gozo.

What activities are included onboard?

You’ll have snorkeling equipment, a paddle board, and a kayak available, plus a hammock for relaxing.

Is food included, and can I bring my own?

There is a BBQ. You bring your own food to grill, and the charter includes snacks plus water, soft drinks, and Prosecco.

Is there an onboard guide, and what language is it in?

There is a live tour guide, and the language listed is English.

Is the snorkeling gear provided?

Yes, snorkeling equipment is included.

Are there swim stops during the day?

Yes, the day includes multiple swim stops with time to explore caves and marine life.

What’s the cancellation policy?

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.