Sailing Holidays in Malta: Your Custom Cruises
Malta has three main islands and is a prime European holiday destination, perfect for a cruise in a catamaran or sailboat. With a plethora of beautiful beaches and captivating coastal towns and villages, you can’t possibly get bored. In the ocean, there is even more to see, with over 120 dive sites where you can dive down into unique underwater universes. On land, you can see the influence of many different countries and cultures, in both the local cuisine and in the buildings.
Get ready to make some memories on board with family and friends
Malta is an idyllic island destination, brimming with exploration opportunities for the whole family. If you want to go island hopping and give yourself the opportunity to explore Malta, Gozo, Comino, and possibly even the nearby Sicily, a sailing holiday in Malta is the perfect choice for you. No matter who you’re going with, there are plenty of activities available that will keep people of all ages occupied.
Going with a significant other, you can explore all the hidden coves, enjoying the privacy that many of them offer due to their inaccessibility except for by boat. If you’re setting sail on a cruise in a catamaran or sailboat with family or friends, you can also add on water sports equipment, giving you the opportunity to try something new and keep everyone amused. The inflatable water toys are a particular favourite with the children and can keep them amused for hours.
No matter who you go with, you can be sure that your sailing holiday in Malta will be one filled with excitement and adventure, with the perfect amount of relaxation thrown in for good measure.
What are the best destinations and sailing routes for a sailing holiday in Malta?
Malta is the perfect destination for your sailing holiday because it is simply full of desirable destinations. You should try to see as many as possible during your Maltese cruise in a sailboat or catamaran but your trip should absolutely begin in Valletta. Valletta is the capital of Malta and not only do we have many boats here, but the Marina di Valletta also has everything you could possibly need to start your trip off in style. If you only want to do a short day-long trip, you should set sail for Comino’s Blue Lagoon, while feasting your eyes on a series of spectacular coastal panoramas and treating yourself to some local snacks on board.
When you arrive at the Blue Lagoon, bathing in the crystalline waters is sure to be a treat, and you can even try out some water sports, whether it be one you love or something completely new. After this, you can enjoy a mouthwatering lunch charcuterie, combined with a drink of your choosing, which can be anything from mimosas or champagne, to wine or beer. Then, you can fill the afternoon with swimming and snorkelling, before setting sail once more for Marina di Valletta.
Maybe you want to sail for a little longer, though. If this is the case, we have planned an intense itinerary, which makes a complete circuit of Sicily, dropping your anchor in many charming coastal towns and cities, before heading back to Malta. Keep in mind that this itinerary is simply a suggestion, and you can adjust it to suit your needs and interests.
Day 1
Marina di Valletta to Porto Turistico Marina di Ragusa - 53 nautical miles (3 hours and 32 minutes)
On the first day, we suggest starting at Marina di Valletta in Malta and then heading out for Porto Turistico Marina di Ragusa in Sicily. This marina has many places where you can grab a quick bite to eat, before taking a taxi to the simply resplendent Riserva Naturale del Fiume Irmino. This area is a fantastic example of the stunning natural beauty you will be treated to throughout Sicily and is the perfect place to kill a few hours exploring before heading back to the marina. Upon your return, you can go for a quick swim or learn to surf at the Onda Fenicia surf school, which offers lessons for people of all levels.
Day 2
Porto Turistico Marina di Ragusa to San Gregorio Bagnoli - 184.9 nautical miles (12 hours and 20 minutes)
On day 2, you should prepare yourself for a long day of sailing from the south of Sicily to the north. This is the longest day of sailing in the whole itinerary, but along the way you can take the chance to admire the captivating coastal panoramas of Sicily’s east coast, If you choose a crewed sailing holiday in Malta, the crew will make sure you want for nothing and that you don’t have to lift a finger during the trip. All you have to worry about is sitting back, relaxing, and admiring the amazing views. You can even ask the skipper to drop the anchor every now and again so you can take a quick dip in the refreshing waters.
Day 3
San Gregorio Bagnoli to Vulcano - 18.8 nautical miles (1 hour and 15 minutes)
On day 3, you will first set sail for Vulcano, a small island just off the coast of Sicily, where you can see one of the remaining active volcanoes in Italy. This is one natural spectacle that you absolutely can’t miss. After all, how many times will you get to see a volcano up close?
Vulcano to Marina di Caronia - 33 nautical miles (2 hours and 12 minutes)
At Marina di Caronia, you can try your hand at a spot of fishing. The water quality here is excellent, which should mean there is plenty of fish. If you want to venture a little further inland, however, stopping off at Marina di Caronia gives you the opportunity to explore the Castello di Caronia and the Torrente di Caronia.
Day 4
Marina di Caronia to Castel di Tusa - 10.2 nautical miles (41 minutes)
Near Castel di Tusa, you will encounter beautiful beaches where you can go for a swim in the refreshing waters before moving on.
Castel di Tusa to Cefalu - 12.1 nautical miles (48 minutes)
While you will surely encounter spectacular beaches in Cefalu, this isn’t why we recommend it as one of the stops on your sailing holiday in Malta. While here, we strongly encourage you to see the famous cathedral and the Tempio di Diana, which is a megalithic temple dating back at least as far as the 9th century B.C. The temple is unique and offers a true window into another time.
Cefalu to Palermo - 31.8 nautical miles (2 hours and 7 minutes)
You will end day 4 of your cruise in a sailboat or catamaran by setting sail for Palermo. It is in Palermo that you should aim to spend the majority of the day as there are so many things to see and do. You are sure to be amazed at Capuchin Abbey with the Catacombes and you will love the food markets, where you can sample a wide selection of the local produce.
Day 5
Palermo to Castellammare del Golfo - 35.3 nautical miles (2 hours and 21 minutes)
Get day 5 off to a great start by heading over to Castellammare del Golfo, which is home to the picturesque coastal village of Tonnara di Scopello. You will feel like you’ve just walked straight onto the front of a postcard here and the rich history is bound to intrigue you.
Castellammare del Golfo to San Vito Lo Capo - 13 nautical miles (52 minutes)
At San Vito Lo Capo, you will find many stunning beaches. Be sure to go swimming in the sparkling sea or go for a walk in the nearby coastal villages before setting sail for your final stop of the day.
San Vito Lo Capo to Trapani - 15.5 nautical miles (1 hour and 2 minutes)
Trapani is the perfect place to end day 5. If you venture into Trapani Old Town, you will surely be awestruck by the Saturn fountain and the Twin Clock tower. There are also many fantastic restaurants, perfect for sampling one of the sumptuous local dishes.
Day 6
Trapani around the Aegadian Islands to Marsala - 45.8 nautical miles (3 hours and 3 minutes)
What trip to Sicily would be complete without a quick trip around the Aegadian Islands? On day 6, you will start off sailing towards Levanzo, around Marettimo, and finally past Favignana to Marsala. If you want to stop off at the islands, this is an option, but even from a distance, they are quite a sight to behold.
Marsala to Mazara del Vallo - 13.6 nautical miles (54 minutes)
When you arrive at Mazara del Vallo, you will be amazed by the town’s bustling atmosphere and bright colours. While you’re here you should take the time to visit the Teatro Garibaldi. Even if you can’t stay to watch a show, you can still admire and appreciate the building’s spectacular architecture.
Mazara del Vallo to Sciacca - 28.4 nautical miles (1 hour and 54 minutes)
Sciacca is where you will bring a close to your penultimate day. Although it will be late when you arrive, there will at least be time to sample some of the local seafood for dinner. Any of the restaurants here will serve you a truly sumptuous feast, fitting for the last dinner of a superb sailing holiday.
Day 7
Sciacca to Heraclea Minoa - 12.8 nautical miles (51 minutes)
Heraclea Minoa is where you will begin your last day, exploring the ruins of an ancient city. These ruins allow you to get an idea of what life was like in Sicily thousands of years ago.
Heraclea Minoa to Porto Empedocle - 13.9 nautical miles (56 minutes)
When you reach Porto Empedocle, you will have the opportunity to visit the charming Chiesa Madre Porto Empedocle. You can also try out scuba diving with the Scuola Sub Empedocle, which offers lessons and courses appropriate for you irrespective of your level or previous experience.
Porto Empedocle to Punta Secca - 55.8 nautical miles (3 hours and 43 minutes)
At Punta Secca, you can experience all the joys of a fantastic fishing village, from the resplendent restaurants to the Capo Scaramia lighthouse. It is certainly the perfect way to end your trip before heading back to Marina di Valletta.
Punta Secca to Marina di Valletta - 53.5 nautical miles (3 hours and 34 minutes)
What sort of activities can you participate in during a cruise in a catamaran or sailboat?
While it is surely a good idea to follow the previously mentioned itinerary, this is not the only way to ensure you have a memorable trip. There are also many activities you can participate in to ensure you get the most out of your sailing holiday in Malta.
Of course, if you want to spend some time on land, there are plenty of tours available. However, did you know that you can also add a plethora of different water sports onto your boat hire? Add on surfboards, water skis, scuba diving and snorkelling equipment, or even jet skis to try out a new sport or even develop your skills in one that you have tried in the past. There are many options available, so don’t hesitate to be adventurous.
If you’re embarking on your sailing holiday in Malta with your significant other, you can also take advantage of the unique opportunity to enjoy a romantic dinner for two onboard, while taking in the breathtaking landscapes and a sensational sunset. If you have opted for a crewed charter, this will be even more special, as you won’t have to lift a finger as your crew serves up a sumptuous feast, possibly featuring some unique dishes from the local cuisine.
When is the best time for a sailing holiday in Malta?
In Malta, the weather is always great for a cruise in a catamaran or sailboat, but you will find the perfect blend of great conditions and affordable prices from the end of May until the beginning of July. During this period, you are guaranteed great weather, amazing deals and fewer tourists, meaning that you won’t have to fight for space on the beach.
Book your cruise in a sailboat or catamaran with a skipper and crew for the ultimate relaxation
In Malta, no matter what your level of sailing experience, you can benefit a lot from setting sail with a skipper and crew. Even if you are an experienced sailor, a skipper can give you a lot of area-specific tips, with knowledge that only locals are usually privy to. A crewed charter is also great as it gives you the opportunity to really relax, without having to worry about any general chores, such as cooking. Depending on the size and type of boat, a crew can consist of 4 members or more, usually including a hostess, a cook, and a couple of deckhands.
What is the cost of a cruise in a sailboat or catamaran in Malta?
There are many different things that influence the cost of a sailing holiday in Malta, including the season, how long you plan to sail for, and the model and size of the boat. Whether or not you want to sail with a skipper and crew will also influence the price.
In general, though, a cruise in a catamaran in Malta will cost at least £3130 per week in low season or £6680 per week in high season, while a cruise in a sailboat will cost at least £1617 per week in low season or £2058 per week in high season.
What is included in the cost of a sailing holiday in Malta and what comes at an additional charge?
Usually, the price you will find on the website only covers the basic hire of the boat, so you have to verify with the boat owner which additional charges you are likely to incur during your trip. Additional charges will usually fit into the category of either mandatory or optional extras. Mandatory extras consist of things like administrative expenses, a final clean of the boat, and necessities such as plates, cutlery and bed linen. With most boats, you will also have to pay for gas and a diving inspection of the boat to make sure you haven’t done any damage during your voyage.
You will also have the option of paying extra for things like wifi and water sports equipment. Some of the things you can add to your charter are kayaks, surfboards, snorkelling and diving equipment, and various inflatables that are especially popular with the children. Sometimes a few of these things are even included in the initial price, so make sure you ask the boat owner first.
Is a sailing holiday in a catamaran or sailboat better?
Which boat you should choose depends on what sort of experience you’re looking for. For example, a cruise in a sailboat is better for those looking for a more authentic sailing experience. While it is true that sailboats have less space than catamarans, modern sailboats still have all the areas necessary to ensure a comfortable voyage. Sailing boats are also cheaper than catamarans usually, as they use less fuel and require approximately half the docking space in marinas.
A cruise in a catamaran is synonymous with luxury. Catamarans have a lot more space than sailboats due to their double hull structure, and this structure also results in more stability, reducing the risk of seasickness. However, catamarans require more fuel than sailboats, as well as more docking space when you want to drop your anchor, meaning you will typically have to pay a lot more.