Budget Boat Hire in Malta: How to Get on the Water for Under €100
Malta has some of the clearest water in the Mediterranean — and you don't need to spend a fortune to get out on it. Small self-drive motorboats can be hired for under €100, giving your group access to sea caves, hidden bays, and yes, the Blue Lagoon.
Here's what you actually need to know.
What Does Boat Hire Actually Cost in Malta?
Prices vary by boat size, duration, season, and operator. Here's a rough guide for 2026:
| Type | Half Day (4–5 hrs) | Full Day (8 hrs) |
|---|---|---|
| Small self-drive motorboat (4–6 people) | €80–150 | €120–250 |
| Medium motorboat (6–10 people) | €150–250 | €200–400 |
| Skippered private charter | €300–500 | €450–800 |
Best value scenario: A small boat at €90 split between 5 friends works out at €18 per person — often cheaper than a group cruise and you get total privacy.
Do I Need a Boat Licence in Malta?
For small motorboats (typically under 30HP), no licence is required in Malta. The rental company gives you a brief orientation covering safety basics, rules, and return procedure. Basic confidence around water is all you need.
For larger vessels or sailing yachts, a sailing qualification or skippered hire is required.
Best Budget Hire Spots
Most boat hire operators are based in:
- Sliema / Ta' Xbiex — largest cluster of hire companies; easiest for tourists staying in the north
- Mellieha / St Paul's Bay — closest starting point for Comino and the Blue Lagoon, cuts travel time significantly
- Valletta / Msida — convenient if you're staying in or near the capital
Tip: If the Blue Lagoon is your main goal, hiring from Mellieha saves 30–40 minutes of travel each way compared to Sliema.
Getting to the Blue Lagoon
The Blue Lagoon at Comino is the top destination for self-hire boats. From Mellieha, the journey takes about 30–45 minutes by small motorboat. From Sliema, allow 60–75 minutes.
Top tip: Leave before 9am in summer. The Blue Lagoon gets very busy by midday in July and August. An early start means calm water, fewer people, and your pick of anchoring spots. The water is also at its clearest in the morning light.
What to Bring
- Check whether fuel is included (some operators charge extra)
- Life jackets are provided and mandatory
- Sunscreen, plenty of water, and snacks — facilities on Comino are basic and expensive
- A waterproof bag for phones and valuables
- Cash for any mooring fees
Budget vs. Guided Group Cruise: Which Is Cheaper?
For solo travellers and couples, group cruises win on price (€25–40/person). But for a group of 5+, a self-hire boat often works out the same price or cheaper per person — with the huge bonus of total freedom over timing and stops.
Browse current self-drive and skippered options on our Malta Boat Hire page — updated regularly. For group cruises and guided tours, see our Malta Tours directory.
