Fun on the water in Malta

The Maltese Islands boast some of the most beautiful landscapes found in the Mediterranean, and it’s not difficult to see why this part of the world is so popular with tourists and travellers. Blessed with stunning landscapes, lots of hot weather and sunshine, as well as crystal clear waters and bright azure skies, Malta is just one of those places that happens to have it all.

When visiting Malta, the subtropical climate means that it’s only natural that you’ll want to be spending some time in the water. Whether that’s taking a boat trip to the numerous beautiful secluded bays that litter the islands, checking out the local sea life with a spot of scuba diving or snorkelling, or just simply cooling off relaxing round a pool, there’s plenty to see and do.

Here are just a few suggestions of some of the great water-based activities and excursions that are available on a trip to Malta.

Boat tours

Taking a boat tour is the best way to discover the beautiful bays and beaches that the Maltese islands have to offer. There are quite a few different tour operators, so at first glance it might seem like a difficult choice picking the right one, but rest assured that most will cover the same spots (just at different times of the day, so as to avoid overcrowding).

Nearly all tours will offer up lunch of some kind, as well as a visit to well-known places such as the stunning Blue Lagoon and the fascinating Azure Window. Boats are typically well stocked with everything you need including toilet facilities, safety equipment, snorkelling gear and first aid necessities. This really can be the highlight of the holiday for some people, as it perfectly balances relaxation, activity and exploration.

We’ve compiled a list of a few great boat tour companies to make it a little easier for you to organise your trip:

Captain Morgan Cruises

This popular and well-established boat tour company often receives fantastic reviews from very satisfied customers, and has been in business for many years. Captain Morgan offer a choice of cruises that can either take you on a historical tour of the islands, or on a Round Malta trip that shows off Malta’s rugged and spectacular coastline.

Hornblower Cruises

Visiting Malta, Gozo and Comino, their tours depart daily from the main island of Malta and it’s recommended that you book nice and early to avoid disappointment. Once aboard you’ll spend all day swimming and sunbathing, whilst the attentive and friendly staff are on hand for anything you need. Opt in for the optional €5 mini bus tour of Gozo as the driver makes it a lot of fun! 

Malta Rib Cruises & Charter

Although there are a number of boat tours that can be hired privately, most are large boats that cater for a few groups at a time. Should you feel like a bit more privacy and that you’d like to experience the Maltese coast either as a couple or a small group, companies such as Malta Rib Cruises and Charter offer just that. Their boats are very comfortable and your captain and guide will be on hand to make the day all about you.

Coastal walking

Another wonderful way to enjoy the waters around Malta, Comino and Gozo - the three main islands of the Maltese Archipelago – is on a coastal walk. You’ll find that each of the three islands is abundant with well-trodden tracks, which wind their way between serene countryside, quaint villages and magnificent cliff sides. If you’re looking to see the best that Malta has to offer by foot, you can’t go wrong with a walk around Gozo, where you can marvel at the unique Azure Window, as well as discovering Xlendi Bay and Ramla Bay. If want to find out a little more about adventuring Malta by foot, take a look at our pick of the nation’s Top 10 Walks.

Wildlife

For those seeking to get a little bit closer to nature, Malta also offers a whole host of activities that allow you to do just that. You can spend time dolphin spotting or taking in a sea lion show, as well as delving deep into the ocean to catch a glimpse of marine life in their natural environment.

Sea adventure excursions

This is a boat tour with a difference, as the boat has a huge glass bottom to it that allows you to see everything that goes on under the waves. Stopping at familiar sites (and even over a shipwreck or two), you’ll see plenty of fish and wildlife throughout the day. 

Mediterraneo Marine Park can be found in Bahar ic-Caghaq, near the north of the main island of Malta. Here you can interact with all manner of sea life, from turtles and sea lions, to creatures such as reptiles and tropical birds. One of the main attractions here is the opportunity to book to have a swim with dolphins, which is an unforgettable experience. The facilities are clean and professional and the park has a reputation for its excellent promotion of marine conservation.

When many people think of diving, they think of young, fearless individuals traversing dark and mysterious waters, but in reality, the sport can be a great way for people of all ages to experience the wonders of the ocean. Although taking a diving expedition can seem like a bit of a daunting task, you’ll find that many are catered to suit all ranges of experience and abilities, from those who have been under the waves many times before, to complete novices. Diving takes you to a hidden world of wonder and tranquillity, and we really don’t think that a silly thing like nerves should put you off. 

So that you choose a tour operator who will ensure a safe, stress free and amazing diving experience, we’ve selected a few of Malta’s most highly regarded diving tour operators for you to take a look at.

Maltaqua

With over 40 years of experience, Maltaqua offers scuba diving experiences for everybody. Whether it’s your first time, or your 100th they can cater for you with deals on group packages, unguided diving and equipment hire.

Buddies Dive Cove

Buddies Dive Cove are a family run business operating out of Bugibba along the north east coast. The owners Martin and Karen are passionate about diving and offer their customers a number of tours, lessons and official accreditations to get everybody involved in diving! Competitive prices and unbeatable knowledge makes Buddies a fantastic choice for those giving diving a go for the first time.

So there you have it! Just a few of the fantastic options for having fun in and around the water when visiting the beautiful islands of Malta. There’s plenty more to be discovered, so you’re guaranteed to find something that makes your trip unforgettable when you visit Malta this summer.