Thinking about a boat hire in Malta but not sure where to start? Between choosing the right vessel, figuring out what’s included, and picking the best time to go, first-time bookers often have more questions than answers. This guide breaks down everything worth knowing before you reserve your spot on the water, so you can book with
confidence and spend less time researching and more time enjoying Malta’s coastline.
Why Malta Is Made for Boat Hire
Malta, Gozo, and Comino form a compact archipelago packed with hidden coves, sea caves, and swimming spots that are genuinely difficult to reach from land. Many of the islands’ best-loved locations — the Blue Lagoon, Crystal Lagoon, and the cliffs around Dwejra — are either boat-only or far more enjoyable without the crowds that gather at land-accessible beaches. With over 300 days of sunshine a year and generally calm, sheltered waters, Malta is one of the easiest places in the Mediterranean to plan a
stress-free day at sea, even for people who’ve never stepped on a boat before.
Skippered vs Bareboat: What’s the Difference?
One of the first decisions when arranging a boat hire is whether you want a skippered charter or a bareboat charter.
Skippered charters come with an experienced, licensed captain who handles navigation, safety, and route planning. This is by far the most popular option for visitors, since it requires no boating licence or experience you simply turn up, relax, and let the crew take care of everything.
Bareboat charters are for those who hold a valid boating licence and want to captain the vessel themselves. These typically require proof of qualification and prior experience, and are less common for holidaymakers who just want a relaxed day on the water.
For most travellers, a skippered boat hire is the simpler, safer, and more enjoyable
choice especially if you’re unfamiliar with local waters, currents, or mooring points.
How to Choose the Right Boat
Not all boats suit every trip. Before booking, think through the following:
- Group size. Smaller walkaround boats work well for couples or families of four to six, while larger motor yachts with cabins suit bigger groups, weddings, or parties who want extra space and shade.
- Trip duration. A half-day charter is enough for a swim and a bit of sightseeing, while a full-day charter allows time to visit multiple destinations such as Comino and Gozo without feeling rushed.
- Comfort features. A fridge, shaded seating, a swim platform, and a toilet on board all matter more than people expect once you’re a few hours into a hot summer day.
- Occasion. Weddings, birthdays, and corporate outings often benefit from a boat with a cabin and dedicated space for catering or setup.
Reputable operators will happily talk you through their fleet options and recommend the right boat based on your group size and plans, rather than simply upselling the largest available vessel.
What to Expect on Booking Day
Once you’ve chosen your charter, here’s a general idea of what the day looks like:
- Check-in and safety briefing. You’ll meet your skipper, get a quick safety rundown, and settle in before departure.
- Departure. Most charters leave from a central, easily accessible marina, with some operators offering pickup and drop-off from nearby locations.
- Sailing to your destinations. Your skipper will guide the day around your priorities whether that’s snorkelling at a quiet cove, swimming at the Blue Lagoon, or simply cruising along the coastline.
- Stops for swimming and relaxing. Full-day and half-day charters typically include multiple stops so you can swim, snorkel, and enjoy the water at your own pace.
- Return. You’ll head back to the marina at the end of your booked window, with plenty of photos and, hopefully, a bit of a tan.
Weather is always a factor at sea. A trustworthy operator will monitor conditions closely and reschedule or adjust the route if needed, rather than heading out in unsafe conditions.
What’s Typically Included in a Boat Hire
Before booking, it’s worth confirming exactly what’s covered in the price. Most reputable Malta boat hire packages include:
- A licensed, experienced skipper
- Fuel allowance up to a set distance (commonly around 30 nautical miles from the operating area)
- Fresh water on board
- A fridge for drinks and snacks
- Snorkelling equipment
- Floating devices and standard safety gear
- End-of-charter cleaning
Some operators also offer optional extras like fresh food and drinks packages, or pickup and drop-off from your accommodation, which can make the day even more seamless if you’d rather not worry about logistics.
Best Times to Book
Malta’s boating season generally runs from April through October, with peak demand in July and August when the weather is warmest and the sea is calmest. Sunset cruises are especially popular in summer evenings, when temperatures cool slightly and the coastline turns gold. If you’re travelling during peak season, booking a few weeks ahead is strongly recommended, as availability for weekends and sunset slots fills up quickly.
Shoulder months like May, June, September, and early October often offer a good balance of pleasant weather and slightly easier availability, which can be worth considering if your travel dates are flexible.
Questions to Ask Before You Book
A few quick questions can save you from surprises on the day:
- What exactly is included in the price (fuel, water, snorkelling gear, cleaning)?
- What is the cancellation or rescheduling policy in case of bad weather?
- Is pickup and drop-off available, and from where?
- How many people can the boat safely carry?
- Are food and drink packages available, or should we bring our own?
A transparent operator will be happy to answer all of these clearly before you commit to a booking.
Book Your Boat Hire with Captain Nevs Charters and Cruises
Based in Ta’ Xbiex, Captain Nevs Charters and Cruises offer full-day, half-day, and sunset charters aboard a well-maintained fleet, including the Saver 750 WA, Eolo 650 Walkaround, and Beneteau Swift Trawler 50. Every charter includes a professional skipper, fuel allowance, fresh water, snorkelling gear, and the flexibility to build your day around swimming, sightseeing, celebrations, or simply relaxing on the water.
Whether it’s your first time booking a boat hire or you’re a regular at sea, the team makes the process simple from start to finish. Explore the fleet and reserve your spot at boatcharterinmalta.com, or get in touch directly at +356 7719 0900 or servicesbynevs@gmail.com.