What boat types can I rent in Malta?

All boat types can be rented in Malta: sailboats, speedboats, RIBs, motorboats, and catamarans. Sailboats and catamarans are mainly booked for weekly sailing trips, as they have the capacity to accommodate more people, they are pretty spacious and comfortable. If you are looking for an adventure, choosing a private yacht over a hotel accommodation would bring you some excitement. If you are looking to rent a boat for a day, consider a speedboat, RIB, or motorboat as you can go visit further attractions faster and have more space for guests, as you will not need to sleep over.

How much does it cost to book a boat in Malta?

Of course, it depends on the type of boat you would like to rent. For catamarans in Malta, prices start at 6.000 €/week, and for sailboats, prices start at 2.000 €/week. When renting a boat for a day, you might consider motorboats, speedboats, or RIBs. Motorboats start at 800 €/ day, whereas RIBs start at 300 €/day.

How much does it cost to rent a boat with a captain in Malta per day?

A captain in Malta costs about 185-200 Euros per day. The captain (skipper) will take care of the itinerary, mooring and casting off, keeping everyone safe, navigating the boat, ensuring maritime laws and local regulations, operating the equipment, and recommending local spots to visit. Additionally, you can book a complete crew with a hostess and a chef to have the freedom to fully enjoy your private yachting experience.

Malta Boat Rental ⛵ ► Affordable Yacht Charter

Sailing Guide Malta

Charter a yacht in Malta to sail over turquoise waters, discover stunning nature and experience a place full of history. Located between the island of Sicily and North Africa, it is a place shaped by different cultures, a tumultuous history and its strategically important position in the Mediterranean. The British might have only ruled Malta from 1800 until 1964, but the island has always been sought after by foreign invaders, including Napoleon Bonaparte. Visit the Ggantija Temples and the Grandmasters Palace to explore some remnants of the island's rich history and cultural heritage.

Things to do and see when sailing in Malta

Of course no trip to Malta is complete without sunbathing on the beach and tasting the incredible local cuisine, but the island has so much more to offer. Tour unique historical sites, hike some of Southern Europe’s most picturesque trails and take in the view of magical sunsets.

Activities in Malta

Rent a boat to discover the most beautiful hidden beaches in Malta
Valletta, the capital of Malta, is worth visiting for a whole day. Visit Saint John’s Co-Cathedral, which looks stunning from the outside, but even more so inside. Paintings by Caravaggio and golden ornaments from top to bottom ensure the envy of some of Italy's most magnificent Christian buildings. Another stunning site you shouldn’t miss is the Grandmaster’s Palace, former home of the Grand Masters of the Order of Malta. All this history wrapped in too much gold and art can make you a little dizzy. Why don’t you take a break? Go shopping in Republic Street and Merchant Street and grab a bite to eat.
Visit the island of Gozo. As it is the second largest island in Malta, it is more quiet and peaceful than the biggest island. Rent a boat to discover some of the most beautiful hidden beaches and coves in Malta.
Comino Island and the Blue Lagoon should definitely be on your bucket list when sailing in Malta. Famous for its turquoise water and unique rock formations, this beach will make you feel like waking up in a dream. As it is one of the most visited spots in Malta, don’t expect to have this place all to yourself. Going here off-season might be for you if you want to avoid large crowds.
Hiking in Malta is a must for all nature lovers. You can basically walk all of Gozo island and discover hidden spots of nature around every corner.
If you love scuba diving, you will love Malta. Regularly rated as one of the best diving destinations in Europe, Malta offers not only fascinating underwater wildlife but also shipwrecks that have been lying underwater for many decades. The Blue Grotto and the wreck of MV Rozi are just two of the spots you can discover on your sailing adventure in Malta.
Mellieha Air Raid Shelter: Visit the shelters that were protecting people from bombings during World War II. It is a vast network of tunnels that was mostly dug by hands.
Hike up the Dingli Cliffs for a stunning view of the Mediterranean. It is the highest point of the Maltese islands and not far from the cities of the historical capital Mdina.
Visit Marsaxlokk village, a tiny fishing village with the most beautiful fishing boats you have ever seen - one more colourful than the other!
San Anton Gardens: If you want to go for a quiet walk the San Anton Gardens are the perfect place for a stroll after a delicious lunch.

Beaches in Malta

When sailing in Malta, stopping by some of the most stunning beaches is a must! With more than 300 days of sunshine, you can be sure to catch a sunny day while vacationing here to enjoy visiting at least one of the best beaches.

Golden Bay Beach is probably one of the most popular beaches in Malta. With amenities such as public toilets, changing rooms, a place to rent your beach and lounge chairs for the day as well as plenty of restaurants located in the Radisson Blu Resort & Spa, it is the perfect place for families and people looking to relax with plenty of everyday facilities within walking distance.
Ir-Ramla il-Hamra on the island of Gozo is the complete opposite of Golden Bay Beach. No resorts, no public amenities, just pure and raw nature. Also known as the Red Sand beach and with the Calypso Cave, famous for appearing in the ‘Odyssey’, close by, you get to enjoy Maltese nature in peace and quiet.
St Peter’s Pool might not be a beach in the classical sense of the word, but as the name suggests, it is a stunning natural swimming pool. It is not super easy to find this beautiful place, but once you do, you need to jump into the crystal clear water!

Discover Malta’s marine wildlife

Whether you are looking at discovering Malta’s marine wildlife while scuba diving in one of the stunning bays or while visiting the National Aquarium, you are sure to have a fun day out. Especially if you are travelling with kids, visiting the National Aquarium, 41 tanks full of different species will surely not disappoint.

If you are part of a group of friends coming to Malta you might think about a boat hire in Malta to discover all the most beautiful places to go scuba diving.

Restaurants in Malta

From Indian to Italian cuisine, experimental dining and more luxurious dinner experiences, Malta has it all! With a close proximity to Italy, it doesn’t come as much of a surprise that Italian food is particularly popular on the island.

Casual dining in Malta:

The Submarine: Looking for a quick, but delicious bite to eat before heading out on a boat? Grab one of The Submarines famous sandwiches, wraps or baguettes. Don’t worry if you’re coeliac. They offer plenty of gluten free options as well.
Claudio’s Pizzas: Pizza is your go-to comfort food? You’ll get to enjoy a cheap, mouthwatering pizza even while vacationing in sunny Malta.
Kebab Factory Qawra: The name is giving it away! Enjoy the juicy meat of a traditional kebab. Spicy flavors and a kebab made with love will make your tastebuds jump for joy. And the best part: Big portions at a low price!

Beach restaurants in Malta:

Blu Beach Club Malta is probably THE beach restaurant on the island to enjoy your dinner with a stunning view of the Mediterranean. The freshest ingredients paired with the chefs skills make this visit a culinary experience you wouldn’t want to miss.
Arzella: Located on Gozo island, this restaurant is right next to the beach. The sea is not just in sight, it is literally right next to you. Enjoy the calming sounds of waves as you enjoy a delicious dinner by the beach.

Fine dining in Malta:

LOA: A fusion of Peruvian and Japanese cuisines, this restaurant is a real treat for every gourmet. The food is undoubtedly incredible, but the experience wouldn’t be the same without the friendly staff and an elegant atmosphere.
Aki: A Japanese restaurant in Malta? This Michelin star restaurant brings modern Japanese inspired cuisine to the European South. Enjoy a variety of sushi as well as exquisite fish dishes.
Rebekah's Restaurant is another Michelin star restaurant located on the island. Elegantly presented dishes make your taste buds crave more from the first bite. A relaxing atmosphere paired with a top notch service, make this place a wonderful culinary experience you would regret missing.

Bars and Clubs in Malta

Ibiza and Mykonos are THE most renown places to party in the Mediterranean, but Malta doesn’t have to hide when it comes to a fun nightlife. Exclusive clubs, luxurious bars and beach parties are just waiting for you to join.

The Thirsty Barber: Rustic charm combined with modern elegance make this place a must-visit on your holiday in Malta. After a day out sailing around the Maltese island, this is the perfect place to wind down and enjoy a refreshing drink.
The Elvis Tribute Lounge: If you want to chase a night full of drinks and entertainment, this place is for you. As the name suggests this bar is themed according to the late American legend. Pictures of Elvis and performances by various Elvis doppelgangers make it the perfect spot for a fun night out.
Plough and Anchor, a family run bar, showcase a variety of hard alcohol next to a rustic decor that will charm you from the moment you enter. Choose from a variety of local beers to enjoy a night out with your friends in Malta.
So City Club: Want to shake your booty? Head out to this fun club to dance the night away with an amazing crowd and tasty drinks. You might wake up with a hangover the next day, but you will get to experience a night out that’s worth remembering.

Explore historical Malta

With over 7.000 years of turbulent history, Malta is a fascinating place for history lovers from all around the world. Discovering the historical sites of Valletta is just one tiny part of the country’s rich history. Head out to the Ġgantija Temples which are part of the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The ruins of the temple complex have stood strong since the Neolithic era and are older than the pyramids of Egypt. Stop by the Upper Barrakka Gardens for a beautiful view of the Mediterranean, a lovely fountain and stunning gardens. Built in the 1560s they are a testament to Maltese architecture.

Discover mystical Malta

If you want to step foot into Greek mythology and the ‘Odyssey’ in particular, you should visit Calypso Cave. It is said to be the place where the nymph Calypso kept Odysseus a prisoner for seven long years after his ship sank during a violent storm. A famous tourist attraction in Malta, the cave had to be closed for now as there is a risk of it collapsing. It might not be as spectacular as seeing the cave from the inside, but for now you can still admire it from outside.

Sailing conditions in Malta

Sailing in Malta means perfect sailing conditions almost year-round. However, July and August are the most popular months of the year for tourists. It’s sunny, the weather is dry and the sea is usually quite calm. The average temperature during the summer months is 28-34 degrees with around 12 hours of sunshine per day in July. Although the yearly average only reaches 23 degrees, the water temperature regularly measures as the warmest in European waters.

You might enjoy visiting Malta in winter, but it is too cold to go for a swim. Usually, the winds and the rain pick up in the winter season as well. We would recommend sailing in Malta in this season only to experienced sailors as you will need to know how to maneuver a ship in unpredictable weather conditions and in strong winds.

How much does it cost to rent a boat in Malta?

Renting a boat in Malta doesn’t have to be expensive. On average a gulet costs only 25.00 EUR per person per night, meaning that you only need to spend around 168.75 EUR per person per week. Most hotel rooms would be pricier. If you’re looking at renting a motorboat or sailboat, you need to pay a little more. A sailboat costs 93 EUR per person per night on average, while a sailboat would cost you approximately 250.89 EUR per person per night. Depending on the amount of rooms, the size and age of the boat, as well as the month that you are booking your boat, the prices can vary.

What type of boat is best for sailing in Malta?

Depending on the type of vacation you are planning in Malta, you should choose your boat accordingly. If you’re looking at a relaxed vacation sunbathing on board a boat, hopping from island to island to discover the most romantic hidden spots, you would choose a different boat than the one you would pick when planning a week-long party with your friends or sailing along the winds of the Mediterranean to deepen your sailing skills.

Renting a catamaran in Malta

Pros of renting a catamaran in Malta

Chartering a catamaran in Malta is one of the best ways to discover the Maltese islands. With two hulls stabilizing the boat, it is a great boat for a relaxing sailing holiday. If you’re looking at hopping from island to island and from beach to beach, chasing sunsets and exploring unique rock formations in Malta, this is the perfect boat for you.

Cons of renting a catamaran in Malta

One of the downsides of renting a catamaran in Malta is the size. While two hulls might create more stability, it also means that it is much bigger than a sailboat and requires more space when anchoring at a port. This can make it a little bit more difficult to enter a port and can also come with higher costs than other types of water vehicles.

Charter a catamaran in Malta

Renting a sailboat in Malta

Pros of renting a sailboat in Malta

Renting a sailboat in Malta is cheaper than renting a motorboat. As you can use the wind as your engine, you don’t need to worry about filling up your tank with enough fuel every time you leave the marina. Located in the South of the Mediterranean and with access to the open water, Malta receives a good amount of wind that allows you to enjoy the sailing experience.

Cons of renting a sailboat in Malta

While Malta is generally blessed with winds that get your sailboat going, nature can be unpredictable at times and you might get stuck in the middle of a sailing adventure. If you’re only sailing for a week and want to discover as many places as possible, it might be a bummer to get stuck without being able to move.

Rent a sailboat in Malta

Renting a motorboat in Malta

Pros of renting a motorboat in Malta

Renting a motorboat might be the priciest option, but it also comes with a lot of comforts that you might not experience if you would rent another type of boat. As a luxury travel option, they are quite spacious with a lot of room inside and on deck. Another advantage is their shallow frame which allows you to anchor much closer to the shore than with another type of vessel.

Cons of renting a motorboat in Malta

The cost of renting a motorboat might be a turnoff for those travelling on a tight budget - especially with prices generally being relatively low in all of Malta compared to other tourist destinations. The high fuel costs are also a downside of renting a motorboat.

Charter a motorboat in Malta

What kind of boat license do you need when renting a boat in Malta?

Renting a boat in Malta is easier than you think! The good news is that you don’t need a boat licence when renting a small boat. However, if you’re looking at renting a boat with more than 30hp, you do need a boat licence.

If you are a resident in Malta, irrespectively of whether you are Maltese or a foreigner, you are required to hold the Transport Malta Nautical Licence in order to operate a boat that is up to 24m in length and with 30hp or more.

An alternative is renting a boat with a skilled skipper. The beauty of this option is that you don’t need to worry about anything when it comes to operating the vehicle. Come on board and simply enjoy your vacation. Plus: A local skipper is able to show you all the most stunning spots that you might miss otherwise.

Sailing routes in Malta

Do you plan a seven day sailing trip in Malta? Start your adventure in Valletta before heading out to Camino Island and the Blue Lagoon. The perfect place to anchor for the night is behind Cominotto. You will be protected and have a safe night on board your boat. After a good night’s sleep and delicious breakfast on deck, you will enjoy sailing around the island of Gozo. Here you should stop on some of the most beautiful hidden beaches and take a quick dip in the water before heading to San Blas where you will spend the night. Now that you have already discovered Gozo by boat and know the waters, jump on land for a long walk to discover the stunning nature and picturesque towns like Victoria or Gharb. Discover the western part of Malta which is less crowded the next day. Stop by Golden Bay for a perfect beach day before sailing further South to Blue Grotto and Filfla Island for a magical sunset. This is also the perfect spot to anchor for the night and start the morning with stunning views. From here you can go to St. Peter’s Pool for a unique experience. Sail to Valletta to explore the historical city and to enjoy local dishes, which are a great mix between Greek and Italian cuisine.

If you are looking at exploring Malta at your own pace and in less crowded areas, you might want to consider sailing around Gozo island in May or June. Less tourists and milder temperatures mean that you could find a beach that you get all to yourself.

An alternative route might mean that you start your adventure in Rome, the capital of Italy, and make your way down to Malta on a ferry before hiring a private yacht to discover Malta on your own terms.