Comino in 3 hours, minus the crowds. This private charter from Mellieha puts you in control, with a skipper guiding swims around Blue Lagoon, Crystal Lagoon, Comino caves, and south-coast Gozo. Captains such as Owen, Noel, Ginger, Pedro, and Mahmoud show up often in guest stories for being friendly and on-the-ball.

I love that the price is per boat, not per person, so up to 6 people can spread the cost and actually get a true private day on the water. I also like that the snorkeling kit basics are handled for you, with mask and snorkel included, plus marina costs and anchoring fees are covered at key spots.

The main drawback to factor in is the fuel surcharge: you’ll pay an extra 79 euro to the skipper after the tour, and the whole experience is about 3 hours, so you may wish you had booked longer if you’re a serious swimmer.

Quick hits before you go

A true private boat for up to 6, with a captain who adjusts the day to how your group wants to spend it

Snorkeling basics included, mask and snorkel so you can get in the water without extra shopping

Blue Lagoon, Crystal Lagoon, and Comino bays are all in the mix, not just one stop

Flexible drop-off options, you can return round trip or be dropped at Gozo or Malta

Film-location coast + caves, with stops where the scenery is the whole point

Budget for the 79 euro fuel top-up, paid in cash to the skipper

Cirkewwa pickup and the freedom to start or end on Malta or Gozo

Your day starts at Cirkewwa, at the port area by the small kiosk/café. The meeting point is right by Cirkewwa cafe (X8QH+3W6), and the provider makes it easy by meeting you at the port, not at some obscure dock you have to guess about.

One of the best practical perks is the drop-off flexibility. You can do a round trip back to your starting point, or you can choose to end on either island. If you want to keep your itinerary light, this helps you avoid the extra hop back, especially if you plan to keep exploring Gozo after the boat.

Also, you’re not locked into a big-group schedule. This is just your group on the boat, so the skipper can slow down for extra photo stops, or shorten a viewing stretch if everyone’s itching for water time.

Blue Lagoon: your swim-and-snorkel stop, anchored where the water looks unreal

Blue Lagoon is the star here, and it’s also the easiest place to understand why private boat time matters. It sits between Comino and Cominotto, with white sandy edges on both sides, and the only real way to reach it is by boat.

On this charter, you get a dedicated stop for swimming and snorkeling, with time to anchor in the clearest parts of the lagoon. That’s the payoff: you’re not stuck fighting for beach access or positioning around the busy shore. You’re out on the water, with the water surface doing most of the work for your photos.

There’s also snorkeling gear included (mask and snorkel), so you can actually use the time instead of treating it like a quick dip-and-go. If you’re the type who likes calm water and easy access, this is the stop that usually delivers.

If I had one caution, it’s this: Blue Lagoon is famous, so the water is stunning but your real experience depends on timing and how the skipper anchors. A good captain makes the difference, and in guest accounts, skippers like Noel, Pedro, Ginger, and Jimmy are repeatedly credited with finding great spots and keeping the day flowing.

Santa Marija Bay on Comino: quieter sand, plus a strong snorkeling pocket

Santa Marija Bay is on the Comino side of the action, in the north area, and it’s shaped like a horseshoe. The main beach is white sand backed by tamarisk trees, and nearby you’ll find Little Santa Marija, a smaller cove.

This stop is especially appealing if you want snorkeling that feels a bit more relaxed than the most famous beach areas. Little Santa Marija is described as having a healthy sea bed and marine life, and parrotfish are singled out as part of what you might see. That’s the kind of detail that turns snorkeling from scenery-only into something you remember.

You’ll also visit the Santa Marija cave area by boat. That matters because the caves and coves are part of the Comino feel, and you get to see them from water level without walking around trying to reach the right viewpoint.

The trade-off: the time here is shorter than Blue Lagoon. It’s a taste of Santa Marija and its nearby caves, so if you want a long beach session, plan to treat this as the “snorkel and reset” stop rather than the full-day beach plan.

Cominotto Beach and the swim-through cave experience

Cominotto Beach is one of those places that sounds like a secret until you realize you just need a boat to get there. It’s secluded, and on this charter you’ll anchor in the blue waters close to the bay.

The other reason Cominotto gets mentioned a lot is the movie connection. The coastline has been used for film scenes, and one notable detail is a swim-through cave, described as about 50 meters, reaching to the other side.

This is where the charter feels more like an adventure than a checklist. You’re not just watching the water. You’re using it. If your group likes getting a little physical, like floating, swimming, and trying the cave entrance, this stop tends to be a highlight.

The practical thing to know: the cave and swim-through experience can depend on conditions. If the water isn’t calm, the captain may adjust how long you can comfortably spend in that area. In choppy conditions, guests praise how skippers still find safe, workable spots, but you should be flexible and go with the captain’s call.

Crystal Lagoon and Comino caves: your second snorkeling anchor point

Crystal Lagoon is the other big-water stop on the route, with turquoise hues and caves along the coast. What makes this place special is that the boat is built to enter some of the caves, so you’re not just looking at entrances from outside.

You’ll also get a snorkeling pause here. The timing is described as a small snorkel stop scheduled based on season and how your group wants to spend the time. Snorkeling gear is provided, and this is where the day often shifts from scenic cruising into underwater spotting.

Several guides are credited with adding facts and fun history while you’re moving between cave areas. That matters because Comino and Gozo can look like pure postcard water, but the details give it context: defensive towers, film locations, and the way people used these coasts long before anyone thought of posting photos.

This stop is also where you may feel the best “boat feels worthwhile” moment, because you get both the anchoring swim and the cave access. If you prefer one long swim, you might be tempted to wish Crystal Lagoon had more minutes. But as a 3-hour half-day, this layout usually keeps the day from dragging.

Saint Mary’s Tower and coastal cruising: small moments between the swims

Between the main lagoons, the route includes shorter viewing moments that help stitch the day together. One is It-Torri ta’ Santa Marija, a 17th-century tower on high cliffs.

It’s described as part of a defensive chain, linked to warning systems and coastal security in case of invasion, pirates, or smugglers. There’s also a movie connection, where the tower was used to represent the Mediterranean prison Château d’If in the Count of Monte Cristo (2002).

Even with only a few minutes, this kind of stop adds flavor. Malta and its smaller islands aren’t only about water, they’re about how the coastline was used for survival, trade, and control. Seeing a tower from the lagoon side gives you a perspective you simply can’t get from a roadside viewpoint.

Another cruising moment centers on naturally formed sea caves and a reef marked with a cardinal mark, where groupers and octopus are noted. That’s the sort of stop that works well if you enjoy watching wildlife in the water rather than only swimming.

Gozo added to the mix: Halfa Rock, caves, and Mġarr Harbour photos

This charter is not just Comino. It’s also Gozo, with cruising along parts of the south coast.

You’ll pass Halfa Rock, a small island with history, then continue past areas known for cliffs, a secluded boat-access bay, and salt pans harvested the same way for generations. If you’re picturing Gozo as “just another stop,” these details help you understand why people plan extra time here.

You also get a look at Hondoq Bay on the south side, plus the Bemberin gorge, described as a hidden inlet only accessible by boat. The water inside is crystal clear, and there are vantage points for cliff jumps. You’re not required to do anything extreme, but it’s the kind of geography that makes you feel like you’ve landed in a movie.

Near the end, Mġarr Harbour is a simple, charming break. It’s full of color from fishing boats and yachts, with fishermen mending nets, and the fort at the harbor is described as being built by the Knights of St John. A small Gothic chapel dedicated to Lourdes sits nearby too, which gives you a religious-culture side that balances the sea time.

Finally, Qala is included briefly, with caves along the way and a fortification at the far east point.

The downside of mixing Malta plus Gozo plus multiple Comino bays is that each stop is timed. You’ll enjoy the variety, but you won’t linger like you would on a longer day trip.

Price, fuel surcharge, and whether this feels like a deal

At $337.55 per group (up to 6), this is priced like a private half-day charter, not a budget tour. For some people, that sounds pricey until you translate it into group value.

Here’s the math that matters: you’re paying for the whole boat. If you travel as a couple, the cost per person is higher. If you travel as a family of four or with friends, it starts to feel fair fast, especially because key “boat costs” are included: marina costs, and anchoring fees at Blue Lagoon, Comino, and Crystal Lagoon National Reserve.

Then you add the fuel surcharge. You’ll pay an extra 79 euro to the skipper after the tour. That’s the one surprise that can sting if you forget to budget. The good news is that it’s a single top-up, not an ongoing drip-feed of charges mid-stop.

So is it value? For groups who want water time, snorkeling, and cave access without crowds, yes, it’s easy to justify. For solo travelers or couples who mostly want a short look and no snorkeling, you might compare against shared tours and ask yourself if the private factor is worth the extra spend.

What to pack for Comino and Gozo, plus small choices that affect your comfort

This type of day is all about what you can do in the water, then what you can stay comfy in afterward. Here’s what I’d pack based on what the experience naturally demands.

Bring:

• Your swimsuit and a spare set of dry clothes
• Sunscreen and sunglasses
• A dry bag or waterproof phone pouch if you plan to take photos
• Towels, just in case you do not get what you expect (some skippers provide comfort items, but it’s not something I’d bet your day on)

Because snorkeling gear includes mask and snorkel, you do not need to rent those. Still, you might want to consider fit and comfort. A mask that sits right makes a big difference when visibility is good.

Also, plan your snacks and drinks. Some skippers provide a cooler with ice, and you’ll often see guests bring their own beverages and snacks to keep the day easy. Even if you do buy at the port area, having your own plan helps you avoid “hangry on the water” moments.

Finally, listen to the skipper on water conditions. In choppy weather, the route can shift. Guests describe how captains actively keep things safe while still getting swimming time, so you’ll get more from the day if you treat the captain like part of your team, not just a driver.

Who this Malta private charter is best for

This charter is a strong fit for:

• Small groups that want privacy and flexibility
• People who want Blue Lagoon and Crystal Lagoon without spending the day fighting crowds
• Families who prefer a guided approach to reaching caves and secluded bays by boat
• Snorkel fans who want mask and snorkel taken care of

It may not be the best fit if:

• You’re hoping for a full beach day. This is timed water hopping.
• You’re extremely budget sensitive, especially with the 79 euro fuel top-up.
• You want a long, slow exploration day. You’ll get variety, but not hours at one spot.

The sweet spot is that mix of swimming, cave views, and Gozo scenery, done at a pace controlled by your skipper. In guest stories, captains like Justin and Jimmy also stand out for helping non-swimmers feel comfortable, while others are praised for taking groups to quieter areas when possible.

Should you book this Mellieha to Gozo, Comino, Blue Lagoon private charter?

If you want Comino water without the hassle, I think this is an easy yes for the right group size. Paying for the whole boat makes sense when you’re splitting it with up to 6 people, and the included snorkeling basics plus marina and anchoring fees cut down on friction.

Book it if:

• You’re excited for Blue Lagoon and Crystal Lagoon swims and want cave access by boat
• You like the idea of a captain adjusting stops to your group’s comfort level
• You’d rather spend money on a better water day than on transit and multiple tour tickets

Skip or compare if:

• You’re solo or traveling as two and price sensitivity is high
• You want more than 3 hours of time to linger at one beach
• You would not enjoy paying the extra 79 euro fuel top-up after boarding

If you do book, plan for comfort, budget for fuel, and bring your swim essentials. Then let the skipper do what they do best, getting you into the best water spots with less crowd stress and more time actually on the sea.

FAQ

Is this tour private, or will I share the boat with strangers?

It’s a private charter. Only your group will participate, and the boat is sized for up to 6 people.

How long is the charter?

The duration is about 3 hours.

What is the price, and is it per person?

The price is $337.55 per group for up to 6 people, so it’s not charged per person.

Where do we meet in Mellieha or Cirkewwa?

You meet at Cirkewwa port by the kiosk/café area. The meeting point is listed as Cirkewwa cafe (X8QH+3W6, Mellieħa).

Can we choose a one-way drop-off instead of a round trip?

Yes. You can choose a round trip returning to your starting point, or be dropped off on either Gozo or Malta Island. Options include drop-off at Cirkewwa Marina or Gozo Marina.

What snorkeling equipment is included?

Mask and snorkel are provided onboard.

Are marina costs and anchoring fees included?

Yes. Marina costs are included, and anchoring fees for Blue Lagoon, Comino, and Crystal Lagoon National Reserve are included.

Is fuel included in the price?

No. There is a one-time extra 79 euro fuel cost, paid to the skipper after the tour.

What happens if the weather is bad?

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