The Best Watersports in Malta (and where to try them)

One of the best ways to experience Malta is definitely from the sea...

We know that the Mediterranean archipelago of Malta delights the senses in a myriad of ways; from its warm Mediterranean climate and tasty cuisine, through to its ancient monuments and vibrant events calendar. But you can take your Maltese itinerary to the next level with a spot of watersports. 

With 3,000 hours of glorious sunshine every year, the water in Malta couldn't be any more enticing. Locals and visitors alike enjoy varied watersports from a wide variety of excellent providers, catering to eager novices and seasoned professionals alike. There's a spot here for everyone, with a mix of warm, shallow waters and more challenging deep waters around Malta itself, Comino and Gozo.

Boating in Comino

Tiny, serene and named for the cumin seeds that once grew wild across the island, Comino is a paradise for watersports. Take a scheduled pleasure boat from Gozo or Malta before treating yourself to a chartered boat trip with a captain and crew at your disposal, a speedboat to get your fix of Bond-style speed, or a canoe for a leisurely exploration of the island's famous Blue Lagoon. Comino is less than 1.5 square miles, so this compact little gem is ideal for a day of discovery.

Diving in Gozo

Gozo, Comino and Malta all offer a wealth of dive sites, which span shallow and gentle waters for beginners through to deep and intriguing caves, wrecks and reefs for advanced divers. The Billinghurst Caves are a diving hotspot to the north of Gozo, and the coastline along Triq Is-Sagħtrija is well worth exploring with a majestic cave surrounded by clear waters and fascinating sea life. A large air pocket gives divers a moment of rest, whilst they admire the bluest, sparkling waters in their full glory.

Flyboarding at St Julian's

Coax out your adventurous side and try flyboarding; with the opportunity to be propelled weightlessly into the air and experience the sense of flight. Spinola Bay is your destination of choice, with various providers that offer intensive courses and individual coaching for all levels of experience - or otherwise. The sport is surprisingly simple to get to grips with and the results are wonderfully impressive, providing an absolute jet of adrenaline for thrill-seekers of all ages. We recommend Flyboard Malta Ltd - Experience Location for your equipment rental.

A bit of everything at Mellieha Bay

Known by the locals as Ghadira Bay, this large sandy beach is a hive of activity throughout the year. Popular with sunbathers in summer, the shores are busy year-round with water sports enthusiasts, trying out new skills and sports in one place. There are several hire and instruction centres in the area which provide expert tuition and equipment hire; Aquamarine Watersports on Triq in-Nahhalija are popular year-round and have excellent reviews. Try the languid delights of paddleboarding and skim across azure waters as you get to grips with your standing stroke. Cool off under the waters with snorkelling or diving, and see an entirely new side of Malta as you immerse yourself in a subsea paradise. Ramp up the adrenaline with paragliding or jet-skiing, and indulge your love of speed and flight with windsurfing. This is also the perfect location for diving locations, with transport provided to all popular local hotspots directly from Mellieha Bay itself.

Paddling and snorkelling at Xlendi Bay

This former fishing village still has its quaint feel, and the stunning beach on the southwest of Gozo attracts discerning tourists and locals alike with its cliffs, greenery and mixed topography of sand and rock. The shallow, sun-warmed waters are wonderful for paddling and very popular with families as a result, but the real water sports fans head to the rocks for snorkelling. Firstly, you can jump from these rocks safely, and secondly, the reef formations under the sea are a sight to behold for their colour, vibrancy and mesmerising light formations, surrounded by a complex ecosystem of flora and fauna.

Sun and fun at St George's Bay

Corinthia St George's Bay is home to the Sun & Fun Water Sports and Yacht Centre and here you can hire a jet-ski, paddle board, private boat or even give parasailing a go. Once your adventures are complete, retreat to one of the hotel's many restaurants for an opportunity to re-fuel. 

Ready to enjoy the Maltese sun on your face, soft breezes in your hair and the life-affirming sensation of hot golden sands and cool azure sea on your skin? Whatever your chosen watersport, you won't be disappointed.