Malta Private Sailing Charter: Blue Lagoon, Comino & BBQ Lunch

Summary

Private boat from Valletta to Comino with swim stops & fresh food

You’ll set sail from Valletta’s Grand Harbour with a local skipper, passing St. Paul’s Islands before anchoring at Comino for swimming and snorkelling in crystal-clear bays like Blue Lagoon. A fresh BBQ lunch is cooked right on board while you relax on deck. It’s a day that feels both peaceful and full—one you’ll probably replay in your head later.

What’s the experience like?

We stepped onto the deck at Kalkara Marina just as the city was waking up — you could hear church bells somewhere behind the old stone walls of Valletta. The yacht felt bigger than I’d pictured, and our skipper, Mark, greeted us like he’d known us longer than five minutes. He asked if we wanted coffee before casting off (I said yes, obviously) and then we were gliding out past the Grand Harbour’s massive bastions. There’s something about seeing Valletta from the water that makes it feel even older, if that makes sense.

The wind picked up as we sailed north along Malta’s coast. Mark pointed out St. Paul’s Islands — told us a story about a shipwreck there (I only caught half of it because I was distracted by these weirdly turquoise patches in the sea). It got quiet for a bit except for the slap of water on the hull and someone unwrapping snacks below deck. We stopped at Comino first, near Crystal Lagoon; I remember dipping my feet in and thinking how cold it was for June. The Blue Lagoon was busier but Mark found us a spot away from most of the noise so we could swim and try out the snorkelling gear — saw some silvery fish darting around my toes.

I didn’t expect lunch to be such a highlight. Mark grilled chicken skewers right on board while we dried off in the sun — you could smell charcoal mixing with sea salt in the air. There was this moment where everyone just went quiet eating, except for someone laughing at my attempt to pronounce “ħobż biż-żejt” (I still can’t say it right). We had plenty of water (and maybe too much wine), which is probably why I napped for part of the sail back past Sliema’s waterfront. The city looked golden in late afternoon light — one of those views that sticks with you longer than you think.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Full day private sailing charter

• Start at Kalkara Marina
• Sail past Sliema Sea Front
• Pass by Valletta Grand Harbour
• Visit St. Paul's Islands shipwreck site
• Explore bays at Comino
• Swim and snorkel in Blue Lagoon
• Relax in Crystal Lagoon
• Enjoy onboard buffet or BBQ meal
• Return to Kalkara Marina

Top questions

How long is the private sailing charter from Valletta?

The charter runs for about 9 hours, typically from 09:00 to 18:00.

Does this Malta sailing tour include lunch?

Yes, you can choose between freshly cooked BBQ or buffet-style meals prepared by your skipper onboard.

Are snorkelling stops included during the trip?

Yes, there are stops at bays like Blue Lagoon and Crystal Lagoon where you can swim and snorkel using provided equipment.

Where does the sailing tour start and end?

The yacht departs from Kalkara Marina in Valletta Grand Harbour and returns there at the end of the day.

Can I bring my own food or drinks on board?

You’re welcome to bring pre-prepared provisions that don’t require cooking; fridge space and tableware are available onboard.

Is this private boat tour suitable for families with kids?

Yes, all ages are welcome—infants just need to sit on an adult’s lap during travel.

What sights will I see during this Malta sailing charter?

You’ll sail past St. Paul’s Islands, Sliema seafront, and spend time around Comino including Blue Lagoon and Crystal Lagoon.

Is hotel pickup included?

No hotel pickup is included; however, public transportation options are nearby Kalkara Marina.

What’s included

Your day includes a private yacht with an experienced skipper-guide, all fuel costs covered, unlimited drinking water throughout the trip, use of snorkelling equipment at each bay stop, plus your choice of freshly prepared buffet or BBQ lunch served onboard before returning to Valletta by evening.