Malta: Private Sailing Charter & Snorkeling Half Day Tour

Summary

Private yacht sailing Malta bays with swimming and snorkel stops

You’ll sail past Malta’s rugged coastline with a local skipper guiding your route, stop for swimming or snorkeling in quiet bays like Fra Ben or St Paul’s Islands, and maybe even try steering yourself. Bring snacks for the ride — the only thing scheduled is relaxing under open sky.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the sea around Malta to look that blue — it actually made me pause the first time I glanced over the side. We met our skipper, Alex, at the marina just before 9am (I was still half asleep, honestly), and he let us pick between heading north to St Paul’s Islands or south to Hoffriet Bay. He said we could decide as we sailed, which felt weirdly relaxed compared to most tours I’ve done. The wind was light but steady, and there was this salty tang in the air that made me want to just breathe in for hours.

Alex showed us how to take the wheel — well, he called it “the helm,” but you get the idea. My partner tried steering for a bit; I mostly watched the coastline slide by and tried not to drop my phone overboard. There were only four of us on board, so it felt personal in a way group tours never do. At one point we passed Balluta Bay, and you could smell coffee drifting from the shore cafes even from out on the water. Alex pointed out some old stone watchtowers along the coast — apparently they’re from when Malta had to keep an eye out for pirates (he laughed and said now it’s just tourists).

We anchored near Fra Ben Bay for a swim. The water was cold at first but clear enough that you could see little silver fish darting around your toes. Snorkeling gear was on board — nothing fancy but totally fine for peeking under rocks. Someone tried paddle boarding and fell off immediately (not naming names). It got quiet after that, just sun on our backs and this gentle rocking that made me forget what time it was. No lunch included, so we’d brought pastries from a bakery near our hotel — probably not traditional boat food but honestly perfect after swimming.

I still think about that feeling of drifting there, sun-warmed and salt-sticky, not really caring if we ever went back to shore. Alex let us linger longer than planned since no one had another booking right after us — he seemed happy just chatting about Maltese history and where he likes to swim when he’s off duty. If you’re looking for a half day sailing tour in Malta that isn’t rushed or crowded, this is probably it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Half day sailing charter options

• Start charter between 8:30am and 12:30pm
• Discuss itinerary with skipper
• Sail to Hoffriet, Fra Ben, St Pauls, or Balluta Bay
• Enjoy 4 hours relaxing on yacht
• Take control of the wheel and sail

Top questions

How long is the Malta sailing charter?

The half day charter lasts 4 hours, either morning or evening.

Which bays can we visit during the tour?

You can choose from St Pauls Islands, Fra Ben Bay, Hoffriet Bays or Balluta Bay depending on weather and time.

Is food provided on board?

No food is included; you can bring your own snacks or drinks.

Is snorkeling equipment available?

Yes, snorkeling gear is provided as part of your sailing experience.

Can I try paddle boarding during the trip?

Paddle boards are available on board for guests to use.

Does this tour include pickup from my hotel?

No hotel pickup is included; you meet at the marina directly.

Are life jackets provided?

Yes, life jackets are available for all guests on board.

Can I combine this with a Grand Harbour tour?

A harbour tour can be added if you book an evening charter instead of morning.

What’s included

Your half day includes bottled water onboard plus use of snorkeling equipment and paddle boards if you feel adventurous—just bring your own snacks or drinks along for an easygoing few hours at sea with your local skipper before heading back ashore.