Two hours on Comino can feel like a week. You get a private speedboat trip with your own skipper, a plan that focuses on the best swimming spots, and an itinerary you can fine-tune based on what you care about most.

I especially like the swim time in Malta’s clearest water—think 30 minutes at the Blue Lagoon plus additional Crystal Lagoon stops to keep you from feeling rushed. I also love the way small details matter: captains like Justin and Ginger have been praised for tailoring anchorages to quieter conditions and keeping the mood fun and safe for everyone onboard.

The main thing to plan for is cost that isn’t in the headline price: there’s a €79 fuel surcharge per booking, and it’s paid as part of the trip details. If the day turns choppy, the whole experience is weather-dependent, so you’ll want a flexible Malta schedule.

Key highlights to know before you go

• Private charter for up to 8 people, so you don’t share the boat or pacing with strangers
• Blue Lagoon + Crystal Lagoon time, with admission tickets included for the stops
• Comino and Comino Tower views from the water, plus passes by caves and reefs
• Snorkeling equipment included, with the option to ask your skipper for extra help if needed
• Fuel surcharge (€79) paid per booking, so budget cash in advance
• No food onboard, but you can bring snacks or buy along the coast

Why a private Comino speedboat feels better than the ferry day

If your goal is to see Comino’s turquoise water without spending the day in lines, this style of tour makes sense. A private boat gets you out onto the water quickly, and it’s easier for the skipper to anchor away from the busiest ferry areas.

You also get something you can’t get on most public trips: control. When you’re not stuck in a crowd-based schedule, you can linger where the water is calm, swim when conditions are right, and skip the parts that aren’t your priority.

In practice, you’re paying for time on the water plus the ability to move your group like a unit. That’s why short trips still feel special here.

Price and value: what $204.37 per group really means

The price is listed as about $204.37 per group (up to 8) for the ~2-hour experience. For many families and small groups, that’s the value story: you’re not paying per person for the boat and skipper the way you would on some “seat on a ferry” options.

What’s included helps the math. You get snorkeling equipment, and the tour includes admission tickets for multiple stops along the way. So when you add up the time in the water and the fact that the boat is just for your party, the price can feel reasonable.

Here’s the catch: there’s also a €79 fuel surcharge per booking, and it’s not bundled into the base price. Plan for it, and bring cash if you can, because that surcharge comes up in the trip details.

Getting there: Cirkewwa vs Gozo Mġarr and how pickup works

This tour is built around two start points, depending on where you’re staying. If you’re on mainland Malta, you start from Cirkewwa Ferry Terminal in Mellieħa. If you’re on Gozo, you start from Mġarr Harbour.

You can be picked up at either marina, depending on where you meet your boat. The activity ends back at the same meeting point, and the operator also says it can be arranged as a round trip or adjusted drop-off if you request it in advance.

That matters because Comino trips often fail at the “how do we get there” step. Here, the tour is set up around the real departure hubs, so you’re not scrambling to coordinate a last-minute taxi just to board.

The itinerary in plain English: Blue Lagoon, Crystal Lagoon, and the Comino loop

This is a tight route on purpose. In about two hours, you’ll hit several standout water areas and see key landmarks from the boat.

Stop 1: Blue Lagoon (Comino) — the classic swim

The Blue Lagoon is the big-name stop for a reason: crystal-clear turquoise water and a white sandy seabed that makes everything look extra bright. With a private boat, you can anchor in a quieter part of the lagoon rather than just follow the flow around the main ferry moorings.

You get about 30 minutes here, with admission included. That’s enough time for a solid swim and a few rounds of snorkeling without turning it into a full-day grind.

Tip that matches how this works: If you can, aim for an earlier departure window. Starting early generally helps you find calmer water and fewer boats before the area fills up.

Stop 2: Crystal Lagoon (Comino) — calmer water and cavey scenery

Next up is Crystal Lagoon, a sheltered bay surrounded by cliffs and scenic sea features. The pitch is “less crowded calm,” and it’s often the stop people prefer when they want swimming without constant boat traffic.

The time listed here is about 20–30 minutes depending on the exact stop timing on the day, with an admission ticket included. You can swim, snorkel, or simply float while you take in the cliff-lined views.

In real terms, Crystal Lagoon is where your group usually slows down. The water looks unreal, and because it’s protected, it can feel more relaxing than the more famous Blue Lagoon area.

Comino landmark: St. Mary’s Tower (seen from the boat)

You’ll also see St. Mary’s Tower, known as the Comino Tower, dating to 1618. It’s a history marker you catch from the water as you cruise, not a stop you go into, and it gives the trip a nice “we’re not just swimming” moment.

It sits high above the cliffs, so even from the boat it’s a strong photo angle. It’s also recognized from popular film scenes, which can be fun for movie fans in your group.

More water stops around Comino: Cominotto and reefs

After the main lagoons, the route focuses on nearby alternatives that often feel calmer.

• Cominotto Island: a small, uninhabited island near Comino with a secluded sandy beach and a cave passage you may get to see from close range. The listed stop here is about 10 minutes, with admission included.
• Cominotto Reef and Imriek Reef: shallow, clear snorkeling areas where you can look for marine life and enjoy the “over-the-side” swim feeling.
• P31 Wreck: a former patrol boat wreck resting in shallow water off Comino. The plan is typically to anchor above it and snorkel from the boat if you want to try.

Because the total tour time is limited, you shouldn’t treat these as guaranteed “we’ll spend 20 minutes at every site.” Instead, think of them as a mix of cruising + short swim/snorkel chances when conditions and the skipper’s judgment allow.

Caves, reefs, and the limits of a 2-hour plan

Comino’s coast is famous for caves and rock formations, and the itinerary includes several cave areas by name—L-Għar ta’ Bla Saqaf (Crystal Lagoon Cave) and Alex Cave, plus cavey formations around Cominotto.

The Crystal Lagoon Cave stop is listed as about 10 minutes with admission included. This one is known for striking blue-green reflections, and you’ll get a direct swim-off-the-boat moment while you’re there.

One important reality check: cave access can be more “see and swim nearby” than “go inside.” The listed description is about boat-accessible sea caves, but your exact experience will depend on water conditions and where the boat can safely position.

That’s also true for the wreck and reefs. They’re popular for snorkeling because visibility can be excellent, but shallow-water spots are also weather-sensitive. If it’s not calm, the skipper may adjust stops to keep things safe and comfortable.

Snorkeling gear and safety: what’s provided, and what to ask for

You’ll get snorkeling equipment included. That’s a big value point because Malta has plenty of rental options, but paying extra and hunting for gear adds friction.

In the real world, snorkeling quality comes down to fit. Some people have noted issues like foggy goggles or not having enough sets perfectly matched to their group. If that happens to you, the best move is simple: ask the skipper right away if you need replacement gear.

For safety, the tour includes life support options mentioned in comments like life vests for kids. If you’re traveling with smaller swimmers, that’s reassuring. You might also find float aids in a limited supply—so it’s smart to bring your own if you have a strongly preferred style for kids.

And yes, skippers set the tone. Captains such as Justin and Ginger were praised for fun energy plus careful handling around boarding and anchoring. That combo is what turns “we’ll swim a little” into a trip everyone remembers.

Captain personality: the hidden ingredient on a private boat

With a private charter, the skipper isn’t just a driver. You’re riding with someone who controls where you stop, when you swim, and how your group feels on the water.

Names that came up again and again in the experiences you shared include Justin, Ginger, Lucas, Dani, Sam, Jimmy, Brenden, Chris, Upie, Francesco, and Zlatko. The common thread is not just skill, but communication and flexibility.

You can see how that matters:

• People praised skippers for adjusting the route based on what the group wanted to see.
• Others highlighted that the captain explained what you were seeing and made kids feel included (pirate hat and captain roleplay were even part of the fun).
• A few mentioned extra care with boarding and disembarking, which is exactly what you want on a small boat.

So if you’re the kind of traveler who likes your day to feel guided but not scripted, a private boat is a good match.

What to bring (and what you can skip)

The boat tour itself is built around water time, so pack like you’re going for swims.

Bring:

• swimsuit, towel, and a change of dry clothes
• sunscreen (water days in Malta can be sneaky)
• a waterproof phone setup if you have one
• cash or a plan for the €79 fuel surcharge since it’s part of the trip setup

Skip or plan around:

• lunch from onboard. The operator notes they don’t serve food. You can bring your own, or buy from coastal kiosks before/after the boat ride.

If you’re traveling with kids, also bring whatever comfort item they need to feel relaxed around water. This kind of tour usually goes best when your kids know what’s next: swim, snorkel, back on the boat, repeat.

Who should book this, and who should reconsider

This tour is ideal if:

• you want a short, high-water-impact experience rather than an all-day hop around
• you’re traveling as a couple, family, or small group (up to 8) and you want your own space
• you care about swimming in the Blue Lagoon and Crystal Lagoon areas and want a captain who can find quieter anchorages

You might reconsider if:

• you’re expecting a long, structured history tour on land. This is mostly about the water and the coastline views.
• you’re very sensitive to crowds and you’re visiting in peak season during bad traffic windows. A private boat helps, but Comino is still Comino.
• you want guaranteed “go inside caves” access. The trip includes caves and close sightlines, but a short boat schedule limits how much interior access you can expect.

For short attention spans and big “wow” moments, it’s a strong pick.

Should you book this private Blue Lagoon and Comino boat tour?

If your top Malta goal is water time—clear bays, snorkeling opportunities, cavey scenery, and the feel of escaping the crowd—this private option is easy to recommend. The combination of a small group charter, included snorkeling kit, and included stop admissions makes it a practical way to buy time.

Just go in with eyes open. Budget for the €79 fuel surcharge, keep your day flexible for weather, and know that this is a fast-paced water circuit, not a multi-hour island hike.

If you can, time it early. Then you’ll get the best chance at calmer conditions and a more relaxed swim.

FAQ

How many people are on the private boat?

It’s a private tour/activity, and the booking is listed as up to 8 people per group.

Where do you meet if I’m staying on Malta?

If you live in mainland Malta, the start is from Cirkewwa Ferry Terminal (Triq Il-Marfa, Il-Mellieħa).

Where do you meet if I’m staying on Gozo?

If you live in Gozo, the start is from Gozo Mġarr Harbour. Pickup can be arranged at the Cirkewwa or Gozo marina.

How long is the tour?

The duration is about 2 hours (approx.).

What’s included for swimming and snorkeling?

The tour includes the use of snorkeling equipment. Admission tickets are included for the listed stops (like Blue Lagoon and Crystal Lagoon areas).

Is food served on the boat?

No. The operator states they don’t serve food, and you can bring your own or buy food from kiosks around the coast.

Is there an extra fuel cost?

Yes. There is a fuel surcharge of €79.00 per booking, listed as not included.

What happens if the weather is bad?

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

Can I cancel and get a refund?

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Changes made less than 24 hours before the start time aren’t accepted.