You’ve decided to see Malta from the water, and now comes the first big question: how long should you go for? Choosing between a half day and a full day boat charter is the decision our guests ask us about most at Captain Nevs Charters and Cruises.
Both options give you a private boat, a professional skipper and the freedom to swim, snorkel and sightsee at your own pace. The difference lies in how far you can go, how relaxed the day feels and what it costs. This guide compares them side by side so you can book with confidence.
Half Day vs Full Day Charter at a Glance
| Half Day Charter | Full Day Charter | |
| Duration | 4 hours | 8 hours |
| Times | 9:00 am – 1:00 pm or 1:30 pm – 5:30 pm | 9:00 am – 5:00 pm |
| Starting price | From €350 | From €580 |
| Best for | Short trips, first-timers, tight schedules | Comino, Gozo and a full day of swimming |
| Pace | Focused and efficient | Relaxed and flexible |
Both prices are per boat, not per person, so the cost drops the more guests you bring. Fuel is included up to 30 nautical miles from our operation area, and every charter includes a skipper, fresh water, snorkelling equipment, a fridge and floating devices.
The Half Day Charter: Short, Scenic and Great Value
A half day charter gives you four hours on the water, with a choice of a morning slot (9:00 am – 1:00 pm) or an afternoon slot (1:30 pm – 5:30 pm).
What you can do in four hours
With a half day, you’ll spend part of your time travelling, so it works best when you choose a focused route. Popular options include:
- Cruising along Malta’s coastline and seeing Valletta and the Grand Harbour from the sea
- Exploring nearby bays and sea caves
- Enjoying a swim and snorkel stop in clear water
- Heading toward Comino for a shorter visit, depending on conditions
Who it suits
- First-time charter guests who want to try boat hire without a big commitment
- Couples looking for a relaxed, romantic outing
- Travellers with a busy itinerary who want to fit a boat trip around other plans
- Smaller budgets, with the lowest starting price of our daytime options
- Families with young children who may prefer a shorter day in the sun
The trade-off
Because the trip is shorter, you’ll need to prioritise. If your heart is set on Comino, the Blue Lagoon and Gozo, four hours may feel rushed.
The Full Day Charter: Time to Explore Without Watching the Clock
A full day charter runs from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, giving you eight hours of freedom. This is the option that unlocks Malta’s most famous destinations at a comfortable pace.
What you can do in eight hours
A full day gives you time to do everything on the half day list, plus much more:
- Reach Comino and the Blue Lagoon with plenty of time to swim, snorkel and relax
- Visit quieter bays and sea caves around Comino and Gozo
- Enjoy a long, unhurried lunch on board
- Return to the lagoon later in the day, when it’s less crowded
- Let the weather guide your route, with time to adapt
Many of our guests tell us this is the version that made their trip, with one noting that their captain tailored a six-hour journey around what they wanted, and they decided when to move on to each stop.
Who it suits
- Groups of friends or families who want a full day out together
- Celebrations such as birthdays, anniversaries and special occasions
- Anyone who wants Comino and the Blue Lagoon without a rush
- Guests who value flexibility, with time for swimming, snorkelling and a slow lunch
- Corporate groups looking for a memorable team day
The trade-off
A full day costs more in total, and eight hours of sun and sea suits some groups better than others. If you’re travelling with very young children or don’t enjoy long days outdoors, a half day may feel more comfortable.
Comparing the Cost: Which Offers Better Value?
On paper, the half day is cheaper. But look at the cost per hour:
- Half day: from €350 for 4 hours, or about €87 per hour
- Full day: from €580 for 8 hours, or about €72 per hour
For an extra €230, you double your time on the water. If you’re torn between the two, the full day usually delivers more value per hour, as long as you’ll use the time well. Our 2026 boat hire price guide shows how the cost works out per person when shared.
What About a Sunset Cruise?
If neither option feels quite right, our Sunset Cruise (6:30 pm – 10:00 pm, from €300) offers a third choice. It’s slower, cooler and more romantic, ideal for couples, proposals and relaxed evenings. It isn’t designed for reaching distant destinations, but for golden-hour views and calm water, it’s hard to beat.
How to Decide: A Quick Guide
Choose a half day charter if:
- It’s your first boat trip and you want to keep things simple
- You have limited time or a packed schedule
- You’re happy to focus on a few nearby highlights
- You’re travelling with young children or guests who prefer shorter outings
- You’d like the lowest starting price
Choose a full day charter if:
- Comino and the Blue Lagoon are top of your list
- You want to combine swimming, snorkelling, caves and lunch
- You’re celebrating something special
- You prefer a slower pace with no clock-watching
- You’re travelling with a larger group and want to share the cost
Still unsure? Think about your top two or three must-see spots. If they’re close to Malta’s main coast, a half day can work well. If Comino and Gozo are on the list, go for the full day.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of Either Charter
- Book early in summer. July and August fill up quickly, and morning slots are especially popular.
- Choose the morning for calmer seas. Mornings are often cooler and quieter on the water.
- Tell us your priorities. Share your must-see places, group size and occasion, and we’ll suggest the best route.
- Bring the essentials. Swimwear, towels, sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses are all you need. We can arrange optional food and drinks on request.
- Trust your skipper. Sea and wind conditions can change the best route on the day, and an experienced captain will always choose the safest, most enjoyable option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I reach Comino on a half day charter?
Often yes, depending on the boat and conditions, but you’ll have less time there. For the Blue Lagoon at a relaxed pace, we recommend a full day.
Is the price per person or per boat?
Per boat. The more guests you bring, the lower your cost per person.
Do I need a boat licence?
No. Every charter includes a professional skipper.
Can I customise my route?
Yes. Our charters are flexible, so you can shape the day around what you’d like to see.
Can I upgrade from a half day to a full day?
It depends on availability, so contact us as early as possible to discuss options.
Book Your Charter with Captain Nevs
Whether you choose a short coastal escape or a full day exploring Comino and beyond, Captain Nevs Charters and Cruises will make it easy and memorable. Browse our half day charters and full day charters, choose your boat and book your charter online, or get in touch and we’ll help you pick the perfect option.