Malta has rich history, stunning coastlines, vibrant culture, and Mediterranean charm

 

Here’s a family-friendly 7-day sailing itinerary around Malta, Gozo, and Comino designed specifically for short sailing legs, relaxed pace, and plenty of onshore activities (no heavy sailing focus, lots to do ashore).

This route works well because distances are short (often 5–25 nautical miles), meaning more time exploring towns, beaches, and attractions rather than long passages .

⚓ 7-Day Family Sailing Holiday – Malta (with onshore activities)

Day 1 – Arrival & Valletta / Three Cities

Board yacht (usually around Valletta or Msida Marina)

Easy sail or stay docked

Onshore activities:

Explore Valletta (UNESCO city)

Visit St John’s Co-Cathedral

Walk Upper Barrakka Gardens (great harbour views)

Evening meal in the historic Three Cities

👉 Great first day to settle kids in and avoid rushing

Day 2 – Valletta → Marsaxlokk (South Coast)

Short sail along dramatic coastline

Onshore activities:

Wander Marsaxlokk fishing village (colourful boats)

Sunday fish market (if timing fits)

Swim at St Peter’s Pool (natural rock swimming spot)

👉 Very relaxed day with authentic Maltese feel

Day 3 – Marsaxlokk → Blue Grotto / Dingli → Anchor North

Coastal sailing with swim stops

Onshore activities:

Boat trip into Blue Grotto caves

Short walk along Dingli Cliffs (highest point in Malta)

Optional countryside picnic

👉 Mix of nature + light exploration

Day 4 – Malta → Gozo (Mgarr Harbour)

Sail to quieter island of Gozo

Onshore activities:

Visit Victoria (Citadel fortress)

Explore local cafés and small shops

Optional jeep tour or taxi island tour

👉 Gozo is more rural and relaxed—ideal for families

Day 5 – Explore Gozo (short sailing hops)

Move around Gozo coastline

Stops & onshore options:

Ramla Bay (sandy beach – rare in Malta)

Xlendi Bay (lunch stop)

Dwejra Bay (Inland Sea & Blue Hole)

👉 This is a highlight day for variety and scenery

Day 6 – Gozo → Comino (Blue Lagoon & Crystal Lagoon)

Very short sail

Onshore activities:

Swim in Blue Lagoon (early morning best)

Walk around Comino island (easy hikes)

Explore caves and quieter Crystal Lagoon

👉 One of the most famous spots in Malta, best enjoyed early or late

Day 7 – Comino → Mellieha / Valletta

Return towards main island

Onshore activities:

Mellieha Bay (family-friendly sandy beach)

Popeye Village (great for younger kids)

Final evening in Valletta or St Julian’s

👉 Gentle finish before departure

👍 Why this works well for families

Short sailing distances → less tiring for children

Frequent swim stops & beaches

Mix of culture + nature + fun stops

Flexible itinerary (can adjust for weather easily)

⚠️ Practical tips

Best time: May–June or Sept–Oct (less crowded, good weather)

Consider a skippered charter if you want a stress-free trip

Start early for places like Comino (gets busy later)

Gozo deserves at least a full day—don’t rush it

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Skippered or Bareboat Charter ?

 

When you rent a sailing yacht, choosing skippered or bareboat (bareback) charter changes the whole experience. Each has its own advantages depending on your skill level, confidence, and what kind of trip you want.

⚓ Skippered Yacht Charter (with a captain)

A skippered charter means a professional captain comes with the yacht and handles sailing.

✅ Key Benefits

No experience needed

You don’t need sailing qualifications—perfect for beginners.

Stress-free sailing

The skipper handles navigation, docking, weather decisions, and safety.

Local expertise

Skippers often know hidden bays, quiet anchorages, and the best restaurants.

More relaxation time

You can fully enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and socialising instead of managing the boat.

Learning opportunity

If you’re interested, many skippers are happy to teach you the basics of sailing.

Safer in tricky conditions

Especially useful in unfamiliar waters or areas with strong winds/currents.

⚠️ Downsides to consider

Less privacy (you’re sharing space with the skipper)

Slightly higher cost (skipper fees + food/space)

A bareboat charter means you rent the yacht and sail it yourself.

✅ Key Benefits

Complete freedom & control

You decide where to go, when to sail, and how long to stay.

Total privacy

No crew onboard—just you and your group.

More authentic sailing experience

Ideal if you enjoy being in charge and handling the yacht.

Often cheaper overall

No skipper fees (though you may need certification).

Flexible pace

Stay longer in places you love without consulting anyone.

⚠️ Downsides to consider

Requires experience/licence

Most companies require proof of sailing competence.

Full responsibility

Navigation, safety, weather decisions, and docking are all on you.

Less local knowledge

You’ll need to research routes, anchorages, and hazards yourself.

🧭 Which One Should You Choose?

Choose skippered if you:

Are new to sailing

Want a relaxed, holiday-style trip

Prefer guidance and local knowledge

Choose bareboat if you:

Have sailing experience/certification

Want independence and privacy

Enjoy the challenge of sailing yourself

WE HAVE MORE THAN 12,000 PRIVATE YACHT CHARTER BOATS IN 60 COUNTRIES

WAITING READY FOR YOU - JUST SELECT - COMPARE - BOOK IN MINUTES ONLINE

UP  TO  50% OFF ON  EARLY  BOOKING  DEALS 👍

UNBEATABLE  PRICES  FOR  YOUR  COMPLETE  PEACE  OF  MIND  ON THE  WATER

#yachts2rentnow