BBQ Bay Cruises: Elephant Rock, Blue Lagoon, Gozo & Comino

Discover Malta’s Coastline and Hidden Coves with a Private BBQ Boat Tour

A private boat cruise in Malta offers an unbeatable way to enjoy the island’s stunning waters and scenic spots. For $182 per group of up to 6, this 3-hour excursion takes you to iconic landmarks such as Elephant Rock, the Blue Lagoon, and the islands of Gozo and Comino. The tour, operated by I Comino Boat Charters, combines snorkeling, swimming, and a delicious BBQ feast on board, all tailored to your preferences. While the duration is limited to 3 hours, the flexibility of a private charter ensures a personalized and exclusive experience, making this ideal for groups seeking both adventure and relaxation.

The tour’s appeal lies in unspoiled scenery, secluded coves, and the chance to customize your journey. Although you will need to bring your own food and drinks, the included amenities such as comfortable seating, a sun deck, WiFi, and snorkeling equipment contribute to a smooth and enjoyable outing. This experience suits travelers who want an intimate, flexible, and scenic escape on Malta’s waters, with the option to explore at a relaxed pace.

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Key Points

• Exclusive private boat with seating, sun deck, and canopy for shade
• Price of $182 for up to 6 people, making it a cost-effective group outing
• 3-hour duration, with flexible start times based on availability
• Snorkeling gear and Lagoon permits included for underwater exploration
• Customizable routes and stops, guided by a knowledgeable skipper
• Includes port and marina fees, safety equipment, and free WiFi for added convenience

Departure Points for Flexibility and Convenience

This private boat tour departs from two convenient locations in Malta. The Gozo departure point is near Sicilia Bella Restaurant at Mgarr Harbour, ideal for travelers staying or visiting around Mgarr. Meanwhile, the Malta departure point is close to Cirkewwa’s Kiosk in the Cirkewwa Channel Terminal—a well-known ferry hub. Both meeting points are easy to reach and allow for a smooth start to your adventure.

The meeting time is recommended 30 minutes before the scheduled departure to ensure a prompt start, as late arrivals will not be granted extra time. The tour includes skip-the-line access through a separate entrance, helping you avoid busy queues and start your day on time. The flexibility of these meeting points lets you choose based on your location, whether you’re based in Gozo or Malta.

Exploring Elephant Rock and Nearby Coastal Caves

The tour’s first highlight is the visit to Elephant Rock, a striking natural formation that resembles an elephant’s head and trunk, making it a favorite photo stop. The skipper guides you around the coast, pointing out hidden caves and secluded beaches that are otherwise difficult to access from land. These caves and coves provide perfect snorkeling spots, with clear waters and abundant marine life.

The navigation along the coast allows ample opportunity to see Malta’s rugged shoreline and appreciate its natural beauty. The skipper’s knowledge helps you find the best spots for swimming and relaxing, depending on the weather and tides, which may influence route adjustments. The private nature of the boat means you can tailor your visit to the most scenic or quiet locations, with the skipper’s guidance ensuring safety and optimal conditions.

Relaxing at the Blue Lagoon in Pristine Waters

The Blue Lagoon is the tour’s centerpiece and the most famous stop. Known for its turquoise waters and white sandy beds, it provides an idyllic setting for swimming, lounging, and taking photos. The tranquil waters are ideal for snorkeling, with snorkeling equipment included, so you can explore underwater life at your leisure.

The Blue Lagoon tends to attract crowds, but on this private boat, you enjoy privacy and space to relax without the usual hustle. The boat remains in the lagoon for a while, giving ample time for swimming and enjoying the scenery. The skipper can suggest the best spot on the boat for sunbathing or dining, ensuring you make the most of your time in this stunning setting.

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Customizing Your Route and Choosing BBQ Locations on Board

One of the best features of this tour is the ability to customize your journey. The skipper offers guidance on ideal BBQ spots based on tides, weather, and your preferences. You can select where to set up your grill and enjoy a delicious BBQ feast amid scenic surroundings.

While the BBQ food and beverages are not included in the package, the tour provides the canopy for shade, an ice cooler, and Bluetooth speakers for your own music. This setup allows you to enjoy a relaxed, personalized meal on the boat, making the experience feel like a private party on the water.

Snorkeling and Swimming in Breathtaking Locations

The included snorkeling equipment makes it easy to explore the underwater world around Malta. The tour stops at several secluded beaches and caves, where calm waters and clear visibility create perfect conditions for snorkeling.

These spots are carefully chosen by the skipper for their natural beauty and safety, offering an authentic underwater experience away from crowds. The ability to swim and snorkel in multiple locations gives plenty of variety, keeping the experience engaging and fun for all ages.

Practical Details and What to Bring

Guests should bring essentials such as sunglasses, swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen to stay comfortable under the Maltese sun. The boat provides safety equipment, and port and marina fees are included in the price.

The tour operates in English and Maltese, with a professional skipper guiding the journey. Since the skipper has the authority to modify routes based on weather or sea conditions, flexibility is key. Arriving 30 minutes early helps ensure a smooth departure, but lateness cannot be compensated with extra time.

Comparing This Experience to Similar Tours

This private boat charter offers a more exclusive and customizable experience compared to shared tours. The ability to choose your route and BBQ spots adds a personal touch not found in standard group excursions. However, the price of $182 for a group of up to 6 makes it a cost-effective option for friends or families wanting privacy.

Compared to other tours that might focus solely on one or two spots, this experience covers several highlights like Elephant Rock, Blue Lagoon, and Gozo, providing a comprehensive taste of Malta’s waters. The amenities and included snorkeling gear further enhance its value, especially considering the scenic beauty and flexibility.

Who Will Benefit Most from This Tour?

This private boat adventure is perfect for small groups seeking a personalized, relaxed outing. It suits those who want to combine sightseeing, swimming, and a BBQ in a flexible schedule. Travelers who appreciate scenic beauty, secluded spots, and the freedom to customize will find this tour particularly appealing.

While it offers fantastic views and swimming, it may be less suitable for those seeking longer excursions or guided historical commentary. The 3-hour duration encourages a leisurely pace, ideal for families, couples, or friends wanting to enjoy Malta’s coastlines with privacy and comfort.

Final Thoughts on the Malta Private BBQ Boat Tour

The BBQ Bay Cruises provides a cost-effective, flexible, and scenic way to explore Malta’s waters. With exclusive access to spots like Elephant Rock and the Blue Lagoon, plus the chance to snorkel and enjoy a BBQ on board, it offers a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation.

The skipper’s expertise and the customizable nature of the route ensure that each trip feels unique. While the 3-hour window means some stops are brief, the overall experience remains fulfilling for those wanting a personalized water adventure.

This tour best suits groups who want an intimate, flexible, and scenic outing and are comfortable bringing their own food and drinks. For those seeking a private, tailored Maltese boat experience, this cruise delivers a memorable day on the water.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour’s privacy and flexibility make it a good option for families, especially since snorkeling gear is provided and the boat has comfortable seating.

What should I bring on the tour?
Guests need to bring sunglasses, swimwear, towels, and sunscreen. The boat provides safety equipment, snorkeling gear, and WiFi.

Can I customize the route?
Yes, the skipper offers guidance on the best spots and can help you select your BBQ location based on conditions and preferences.

Are food and drinks included?
No, the BBQ food and beverages are not included, but you can bring your own to enjoy a personalized meal on board.

What is the cancellation policy?
Guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Where does the tour depart from?
It departs from Mgarr Harbour near Sicilia Bella Restaurant in Gozo or Cirkewwa’s Kiosk in the Cirkewwa Channel Terminal in Malta.

How long is the tour?
The duration is 3 hours, with start times subject to availability.

Is there WiFi onboard?
Yes, free WiFi is included for guests’ convenience.

Are snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, masks and snorkels are included as part of the amenities.

What weather conditions might affect the tour?
The skipper retains the right to cancel or modify the trip based on weather, tides, or sea conditions for safety and comfort.

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