Thinking of chartering a boat in Malta? You’re not alone. The island’s calm seas, turquoise coves, and sun-soaked coastline attract thousands of adventurers and relaxation-seekers every year. But not all boats are created equal—and if you’re looking for the smoothest, most spacious, and most comfortable ride on the Mediterranean, one option stands above the rest: the catamaran.
In this guide, you’ll discover why catamarans are the top choice for day charters in Malta, especially if comfort and stability matter. Whether you’re sailing to the Blue Lagoon, hosting a birthday on board, or planning a romantic sunset cruise, this article will help you understand what makes catamarans so unique—and how to choose the right one for your perfect day at sea.
What Is a Catamaran, and Why Does It Matter?
Let’s start with the basics. A catamaran is a multi-hulled boat with two parallel hulls connected by a wide deck. Unlike traditional sailboats (monohulls), catamarans don’t lean dramatically when they sail. That means:
- You walk flat. No tilting, no stumbling, no wine glasses tipping over.
- You relax more. The stability makes it ideal for families, older guests, and anyone prone to seasickness.
- You enjoy more space. The deck is wider, the lounge areas are bigger, and cabins are roomier and often have sea views from both sides.
For a day charter in Malta, a catamaran gives you a villa-on-water vibe: airy, social, open. Think of it as your floating lounge.
Why Catamarans Are Perfect for Maltese Waters
Malta is a compact sailing paradise. Within a few hours, you can sail from Valletta’s Grand Harbour to the caves of Comino or the hidden bays of Gozo. The island’s coastline is filled with shallow coves, rocky inlets, and spots where traditional monohull boats can’t anchor safely.
Catamarans, with their shallow draft, can get much closer to the shore—meaning you swim sooner, explore more, and enjoy quieter, less crowded locations. While other boats are circling offshore, your captain can drop anchor in waist-deep water steps from a private beach.
Plus, catamarans shine in calm-to-moderate sea conditions like Malta’s. You’ll barely feel the waves as you cruise past golden cliffs and azure lagoons.
Stability: No Wobble, All Wonder
Let’s be real—no one wants to feel queasy on their dream boat trip. The biggest complaint about sailing, especially among first-timers, is seasickness. But here’s the good news: catamarans are designed to minimize motion.
Because they ride on two hulls, they don’t heel (tilt) like monohulls. This means you can move around comfortably, keep your drink upright, and avoid the acrobatics of staying balanced. For kids, elderly passengers, and less confident swimmers, that makes a huge difference.
If you’re planning a party on board—a corporate event, hens’ or bachelors’ celebration, or a family reunion—a catamaran’s stable platform also makes dancing, dining, and mingling far more enjoyable.
Space to Unwind (or Party)
Picture this: you’re stretched out on the front netting, the sea beneath you shimmering like glass. Behind you, a group of friends are sipping prosecco under the shaded deck. There’s music, maybe a catered lunch, and not a worry in the world.
Catamarans are built for moments like this. Their wide decks, open-air lounges, sunbathing areas, and shaded seating zones make them ideal for both social gatherings and quiet escapes. Everyone can find their own corner.
For groups, the generous layout allows for easy movement without feeling cramped. And because most catamarans are designed for comfort, you’ll usually find Bluetooth sound systems, fridges, ice boxes, and sometimes even water toys like paddleboards or snorkeling masks included.
Privacy & Versatility
One of the underappreciated perks of a catamaran? Privacy.
Because of their dual-hull design, many catamarans have separate cabins and bathrooms on each side. Even if you’re just booking a day trip, this layout makes it easier for couples, families, or mixed groups to have personal space while still sharing the experience.
Whether you’re chartering for a romantic proposal, a quiet anniversary, or a rowdy friend getaway, a catamaran adapts to the mood.
Safety First
Catamarans are some of the safest vessels on the water. Their twin-hull design provides inherent stability, making them far less likely to capsize than a monohull. For families with children, this peace of mind matters.
The broad beam (width) means wider walkways and fewer chances to trip or fall. Many models also have side gates for easy water entry, and ladders that make getting back on board a breeze after a swim.
Should You Book a Skippered or Bareboat Catamaran?
For most day charters in Malta, especially if you’re not licensed or experienced, a skippered catamaran is the way to go.
Your skipper knows the best spots, handles all navigation and anchoring, and keeps you safe—so you can focus on enjoying the ride. Some packages even include a crew member or host who helps with food, drinks, or activities.
If you’re an experienced sailor and want to go bareboat (without a skipper), make sure you meet local licensing requirements. But honestly, unless you love sailing hands-on, most visitors prefer to relax while someone else handles the details.
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Where to Go by Catamaran in Malta
Some of the top destinations you can explore on a catamaran charter include:
- Blue Lagoon (Comino): Swim in crystal-clear turquoise water
- Santa Maria Bay: A quieter alternative on Comino’s north side
- Dwejra (Gozo): Visit the Inland Sea and dramatic rock arches
- St. Paul’s Islands: Great for snorkeling and calm cruising
- Marsaxlokk & Delimara: Pair sailing with a seafood lunch stop
Your skipper will tailor the route to the weather, your group size, and what you want to see most.
Final Thoughts: Is a Catamaran Worth It?
Absolutely.
When you choose a catamaran, you’re not just renting a boat—you’re choosing comfort, freedom, and style. You get space to move, stability to relax, and the flexibility to explore Malta’s hidden gems like a local.
If you’re ready to charter a catamaran in Malta, the best time to book is now. Especially during summer, availability fills fast—especially for weekends or full-day slots.
So take the plunge. Book your catamaran day charter and experience Malta’s coastline the way it was meant to be seen: from the deck of a boat that feels like home.