Exploring the Mediterranean: Your Maltese Islands Yacht Charter Guide

It seems incongruous that a place known for its dusty, rocky landscape is a prized yachting haven, yet a luxury yacht charter to Malta will deliver you to the doors of a land abundant in culture and cuisine. The craggy coastline, where dramatic cliffs are pocketed with caves and rock pools, creates the ideal location for diving and snorkelling alike. Renowned for its gin-clear waters that are thriving with fish and awash with wrecks of airplanes and boats, it’s clear why Malta is one of the most loved charter destinations in the Mediterranean for both sailing and motor yachts.

The Maltese capital of Valletta was the first in the world constructed to a block system. Now a common sight in America, Francesco Laparelli designed Valletta’s wide and straight streets on rectangular grids that breathe a cooling sea breeze through the character-filled city. Reminders of the 268-year-legacy of the Knights of St John loom large with fortifications, watch towers, auberges and palaces scattered across land and sea.

One example of Malta’s many UNESCO Heritage sites is the Hypogeum of Ħal Saflieni, a Neolithic subterranean monument consisting of halls, chambers and passages hewn out of limestone. Likewise, the Tarxien Temples in the port region of the city are four megalithic structures rich in prehistoric art, including bas-relief sculpture depicting spirals and animals.

For something on the quiet side, head to Mdina, a fortified city in the northern region and Malta’s former capital. It’s known as the silent city for its lack of construction work and development, with most of its roads left pedestrianised adorned with beautifully decorated Palazzos. It sits on top of one of Malta’s highest peaks, providing stunning views across the Mediterranean Sea.

When visiting the island of Gozo, don’t miss the preserved prehistoric Ġgantija temples, one of the oldest structures in the world. Located on Gozo’s Xagħra plateau, the limestone monuments sit at the centre of an extraordinary archaeological landscape. History buffs will also enjoy a trip to the Gozo Citadel, also known as the Castello, it dominates the skyline and is rich in buildings of architectural, military and historical value. Its open areas also host numerous rare species of flora and fauna.

When leaving land, set sail for Dwejra Bay, located off Gozo behind Fungus Rock (so-called for a rare type of medicinal plant that naturally grows there). The stunning anchorage forms a protected near-enclosed bay for bathers and yachts of up to 80m. It was home to the Azure Window, also known as the Dwejra Window, a 28m-tall arch formed by the ocean. It collapsed in 2017, but the remnants remain a draw for tourists thanks to its appearing in international films and TV productions, including Game of Thrones.

Between Malta and Gozo lies Comino, a small island that is famed for its turquoise blue lagoon and incredible Blue Hole dive spot. Naturally carved out by water and wind, its spectacular limestone rock formations allow divers to swim through arches, explore sea caves and military shipwrecks.

Comino is the smallest inhabited island in the Maltese archipelago, with just two known permanent inhabitants, in addition to the island’s one hotel — Comino Hotel. Overlooking San Niklaw Bay right by the water’s edge, spending the night here is the epitome of getting away from it all. It also provides the perfect location for enjoying the yacht’s water sports.

If diving is not your strong point, snorkelling, paddle boarding and kayaking in the lagoon are ideal, while sports, such as wake-boarding and foiling are easily mastered in the open waters.

The small, traditional fishing village of Marsaxlokk in the south eastern region of Malta is prized for its picturesque harbour and vibrant fishing market. Signature cobalt blue fishing boats dot the horizon, flanked by golden beaches and bright fisherman’s cottages. It’s no surprise that Marsaxlokk has gained a reputation for gastronomic seafood dishes, with the fresh fish served at family-run restaurant Tartarun being among the best. Aside from the signature dishes, it also sources its daily bread from the local baker and its fresh produce from a hydroponic farmer, all washed down by a 150-plus bin wine list.

Get ready to sail the Maltese Islands onboard a private yacht rental with Burgess.

To find out more about Burgess’ yachts for sale and yachts for charter, please contact a Burgess broker. Alternatively, get in touch with one of our offices directly: London, Monaco, New York, Miami, Singapore or all other locations.