Rebecca Anastasi has the run-down of the best picks this season.
From chartered boat trips around the crystal-clear waters of Comino to jet ski safaris to the islands’ caves, the Mediterranean Sea around Malta offers a spate of thrilling water adventures where life-long memories can be made.
Cruising the Coast
There’s something magical about discovering the Maltese islands from the sea. They are edged with hidden coves, sun-warmed rocks and secluded inlets, some of which can only truly be appreciated from the water. Whether you’re after a tranquil escape or simply looking to avoid the crowds, exploring Malta by boat offers a serene, intimate connection with the Mediterranean.
“Going out on a boat, guests get to witness a breathtaking, serene and almost magical atmosphere. It’s a perfect opportunity for people to pause, unwind and enjoy nature’s beauty,” says James Attard, who runs Xlendi Pleasure Cruises (www.xlendicruises.com). “Sometimes guests can be lucky enough to spot dolphins – it’s an experience that stays with them long after they leave the boat,” he adds.
Photo Credit: Emmanuel Cassar – Unsplash
Most boat tours last between three and four hours and include stops at some of the islands’ most striking marine locations – including the Blue Lagoon and Gozo – with prices starting from €35 per person. Boats typically accommodate between 20 and 50 people, offering a close-to-the-sea experience while keeping everyone dry…. at least until it’s time to dive in.
For those after something more private – or a bit more exhilarating – speedboat charters are also available, with prices starting from €195 for a two-hour ride.
“We pride ourselves on creating a warm, family-friendly environment, where guests truly feel like part of our extended family. From the moment they step aboard, we make sure they feel welcome and cared for, offering personalised attention and a friendly vibe throughout the tour,” James says.
Stand-up Paddleboarding (SUP)
So, you think you’re fit enough to stand up for over an hour on a paddleboard? It’s actually harder than it looks, but if you have the patience and the stamina, it can be a thrilling experience. Paddleboarding, which is a combination of skateboarding on the sea and windsurfing (but without the sail), has risen in popularity over the past few years, and allows you to head out off the shore with family and friends and explore the islands’ marine sites up close.
Weave in and out of the caves at Santa Marija in Comino – you’ll have to get a boat to get there – or simply paddle out of Għadira Bay on your paddleboard; there are various levels of adventure and difficulty, depending on your mood. Instructors are typically on hand to get you going, but remember, it’s your legs and core which will be doing most of the work! It’s a good idea to contact the aqua centre beforehand to ensure the activity suits your fitness level and preferred level of challenge.
If you’re leaving from one of Malta’s main beaches, a one-hour paddle will cost you around €15, but if you fancy heading out onto open water to explore Malta’s geological formations up close, that will come with a more expensive price tag.
Jet Ski Safari around Malta's Caves
Heading out to sea is not only an opportunity to come into communion with nature, but it can be an exhilarating experience, with Malta’s often-calm waters providing the perfect opportunity to try out jet skis for the first time.
“It’s always a memorable experience even for us,” says Ronald Agius from Costa Del Sol Water Sports in Għadira Bay (visit Facebook page), which offers jet ski safaris around the Maltese islands. “On these excursions, we take visitors out on a speedboat, with one of our professional guides, who shows them the most popular spots while they ride on their jet skis. The tour features numerous highlights, including the Comino caves, and some lesser-known swimming spots. We also speak to our customers beforehand to find out how they’d like to customise the trip, so we can give them an adventure to remember,” he continues.
Photo Credit: Marc Babin – Unsplash
An hour-and-a-half jet ski safari costs €165 per jet ski (maximum two people), or €195 for two hours. “Jet ski safaris are highly popular with our customers – you get to experience Malta and enjoy an adrenalin-filled rush while doing so!” Ronald says. Costa Del Sol also offers calmer paddle boat excursions, which are “more family-oriented, and a fantastic opportunity to spend quality time with loved ones in peace and quiet,” he continues.
Trips depart directly from Għadira Bay, which Ronald describes as “a gem”.
Kayaking Off the Shore
Thrill-seeking is not for everyone, but that doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the fun. Many aquatic clubs and water sports centres offer the chance to head out into the open sea in a kayak, where you can choose your own route and decide how long to spend at each spot.
Photo Credit: Brandon McDonald – Unsplash
It’s a calmer, more meditative way to connect with the sea and its natural surroundings. Listen to the splash of the oars in the water, take in the towering rock faces, or simply sit still in the kayak and appreciate the blend of birdsong and the gentle undulations of the Mediterranean. The sense of ease will ripple down your body, offering a moment of peace away from the hustle and bustle of daily life – and likely, a good night’s sleep afterwards.
Kayaks are widely available at many of the island’s swimming spots, and you can head out from any of Malta’s main beaches, including Għadira. Costa Del Sol also offers kayaking excursions at €12.50 per person per hour, or €20 per hour for a double kayak.
Bespoke Luxury Yacht Tours
Have you ever watched The White Lotus and thought you deserved a bit of R&R – something a little ritzy and refined? Luxury yacht charters around the Maltese islands can bring you closer than ever to that level of opulence, offering an unforgettable experience that will live long in the memory.
“One of our most memorable charters involved a surprise marriage proposal at sunset in a secluded bay off Comino – complete with a private chef, live music and a drone photographer capturing the moment from above,” says Darren Cuschieri of Malta Boat Charter (www.maltaboatcharter.com). The company offers full-day and multi-day charters aboard motor yachts, sailing yachts, catamarans, and RIBs. Upon request, guests can also book jet ski rentals, Seabobs, onboard private chefs, professional photographers, and music entertainment systems.
Photo Credit: Mike Swigunski – Unsplash
“Whether it’s a romantic escape, a fun family day, or a celebration with friends, our guests often tell us it’s the highlight of their trip to Malta,” Darren adds.
Another unforgettable moment he recalls “was spotting a pod of dolphins on the way back from Gozo. The guests were thrilled – especially the children, who had never seen dolphins before. They swam alongside the boat for several minutes, creating an emotional, once-in-a-lifetime experience that no one on board will ever forget.”
Charter rates start from €450 per day, with prices varying depending on the type of boat and the duration. All prices include a professional skipper or licensed captain, fuel and insurance. Boats depart from various locations around Malta, usually from Ta’ Xbiex Marina, Sliema or Portomaso.
“Malta is a true gem for nautical adventures. Its central Mediterranean location, calm waters and stunning coastline – dotted with caves, cliffs and lagoons – make it ideal for boating. With over 300 days of sunshine a year and short distances between islands, it’s easy to explore Malta, Comino and Gozo all in one unforgettable day at sea,” Darren says.
Explore What Lies Beneath
Malta’s warm Mediterranean waters are home to vibrant marine life. Popular snorkelling spots include Għar Lapsi on the southern coast of Malta, famous for its sheltered bay and deep-sea tunnels. Further south, you can head to St Peter’s Pool, near Delimara Point or, if you’re in the north of the island, make your way to Fomm ir-Riħ; though both spots are a bit more difficult to access than Għar Lapsi, they are often quieter. In Gozo, the area around what was formerly known as the Azure Window boasts rich marine biodiversity and underwater scenery featuring corals and sponges. Don’t forget your underwater cameras!
For those keen to venture even deeper, Malta also offers exceptional wreck diving opportunities. You don’t need to be an experienced diver to explore some of Malta’s most fascinating wrecks, as there are sites suitable for all levels. One of the most popular is the British Destroyer HMS Maori, lying just off the coast of Valletta at a depth of 18 metres. This famous ship, which helped crack the code needed to sink the German vessel Bismarck, was destroyed in 1942 when it was hit while sailing in the Grand Harbour. On the other side of the island, more adept divers can explore the 10,000-ton tanker Um El Faroud, resting 36 metres deep in Wied iż-Żurrieq. This ship sank in 1995 after an explosion tore through its hull during repairs at the dockyard. These ships’ tragic ends gave birth, however, to marine worlds bustling with life.
This article was first featured on GuidemeMalta Summer Edition 2025