Sailing Through Malta: Our Family Boat Trip Adventure
When we planned our kids’ spring break trip to Europe, Malta wasn’t originally on our radar. But when the chance came to book flights and hotels with points, we jumped at it. After a few days in Paris, we headed south to this small Mediterranean nation for five days of sunshine, history, and island-hopping. One of the best choices we made was booking a boat trip that took us around Malta, Comino, and Gozo.
Why a Boat Tour?
With limited time, we wanted to experience as much as possible without rushing. A day-long cruise turned out to be the easiest way to see three islands, dramatic cliffs, sea caves, and those famous turquoise lagoons. Boats depart from several harbors, but ours left from St. Paul’s Bay, making stops along the way for swimming, sightseeing, and exploring on land.
Life on Board
The boat was large enough to carry a good number of passengers, but in late March, our trip felt uncrowded. The main deck had rows of chairs, while the upper level featured loungers for relaxing in the open air. Below deck, a café offered drinks and snacks. Even with a few rain showers, the crew kept everyone comfortable with roll-down windbreaks. A highlight for kids and adventurous adults was the slide straight into the sea—a fun way to dive into the Blue Lagoon’s bright waters.
The Route and Highlights
St. Paul’s Bay
We set sail from the northern coast of Malta, gliding past small islands and the rugged shoreline before heading toward Comino.
Santa Maria Caves
The first stop included a detour through sea caves carved into the limestone cliffs. The water shimmered deep blue, and everyone scrambled to take photos as the captain maneuvered into narrow inlets.
Comino and the Blue Lagoon
This tiny island is famous for its lagoon, and the hype is well-deserved. Even under cloudy skies, the water looked almost unreal in its clarity. Passengers had about 90 minutes to swim, wander the rocky paths, or grab a cold drink from food stalls along the shore. Pineapple cocktails served in hollowed-out fruit added a playful touch.
Gozo and Victoria
From Comino, the boat continued north to Gozo, where we had three hours to explore. Rather than joining the bus tour, we opted for an Uber to Victoria, the island’s capital. The Citadel dominates the skyline here, with thick walls and sweeping views over the countryside. Wandering through its historic alleys felt like stepping into another era. Afterward, we strolled around town and found a square near St. George’s Basilica for a long, relaxed lunch. Plates were generous, prices reasonable, and the atmosphere lively.
Crystal Lagoon and St. Mary’s Tower
On the return journey, the boat swung past the Crystal Lagoon, a hidden bay with turquoise waters tucked between sheer cliffs. Soon after, we spotted St. Mary’s Tower, a 17th-century watchtower standing tall on Comino’s rocky ridge. It was a reminder of how much history is layered into these small islands.
By late afternoon, we were back in St. Paul’s Bay, tired but full of stories.
Tips for a Smooth Trip
- Allow extra time to reach the harbor—traffic on Malta can be unpredictable.
- Pack essentials like sunscreen, a swimsuit, a towel, and a portable charger.
- If you get motion sickness, bring medicine just in case.
- Ridesharing services like Uber and Bolt are reliable, but for groups, request larger vehicles since many cars are compact.
- Plan what you’d like to see on Gozo in advance so you don’t waste precious time deciding once you arrive.
Final Thoughts
Our boat trip was the highlight of our Malta visit. It gave us the chance to swim in the Blue Lagoon, explore medieval Gozo, and enjoy the dramatic coastline from the water—all in one day. For families, couples, or anyone short on time, a boat tour is one of the best ways to truly appreciate the beauty of the Maltese islands. It’s an experience that blends adventure, history, and relaxation, leaving memories that linger long after you’ve stepped back on shore.
