Sailing across the crystal-clear Mediterranean around Malta is one of the most unforgettable ways to experience the islands. From the crystal waters of the Blue Lagoon to the dramatic coastlines of Gozo, Malta boat tours offer stunning views, warm sunshine, and the perfect setting to enjoy local drinks.
If you are joining a group excursion or booking a private sailing experience with GOZOblu Private Tours, pairing Maltese wines and beers with your trip adds a unique local flavour to the journey. If you’re still deciding whether a personalised sailing experience is the right option, you can explore whether a private boat tour in Malta is worth the cost compared to standard group tours before booking.
Malta has a long winemaking tradition and a growing craft beer scene, making it easy to find refreshing drinks that perfectly match a day on the water.
Maltese Wines: A Taste of the Islands
Despite its small size, Malta has a rich wine culture shaped by Mediterranean sunshine, limestone soils, and centuries of tradition.
Two of the most distinctive Maltese grape varieties are Gellewza and Girgentina, both of which thrive in Malta’s warm climate and produce wines that are perfect for relaxed seaside drinking.
1. Girgentina: Malta’s Crisp Native White
Girgentina is Malta’s most recognised native white grape and produces refreshing wines with bright citrus notes and lively acidity.
Typical flavours include:
- Lemon and grapefruit
- Green apple
- Subtle floral aromas
Because it is crisp and refreshing, Girgentina is ideal for daytime boat tours when the Mediterranean sun is at its strongest. When planning a sailing trip, it’s also worth checking the weather conditions that can affect Malta boat tours, as calmer seas and clear skies make daytime wine tasting on the water even more enjoyable.
It pairs perfectly with:
- Fresh seafood
- Grilled fish
- Mediterranean salads
- Light pasta dishes
Many travellers enjoy a chilled glass of Girgentina while anchored in the calm turquoise waters of the Blue Lagoon.
2. Gellewza: Malta’s Historic Red
Gellewza is Malta’s traditional red grape variety, producing lighter-bodied wines with fruity aromas and soft tannins.
Typical flavour notes include:
- Cherry
- Plum
- Dried fruit
- Subtle spice
Because of its smooth and easy-drinking character, Gellewza is perfect for sunset sailing trips, when the golden evening light reflects across the Mediterranean.
It pairs beautifully with:
- Olives and antipasti
- Cheese boards
- Grilled seafood
- Mediterranean tapas
Famous Maltese Wineries
Malta’s modern wine industry is supported by several respected vineyards that combine traditional methods with modern winemaking.
1. Delicata Winery
One of Malta’s oldest wine producers, Delicata produces a wide range of wines made from both local and international grape varieties.
2. Meridiana Wine Estate
Meridiana is known for producing premium Maltese wines, including the well-known Isis Chardonnay, a crisp white wine perfect for warm Mediterranean afternoons.
Wine lovers often visit these wineries before or after a boat trip to learn more about Malta’s wine culture.
Local Maltese Beers to Try
While wine is deeply rooted in Maltese culture, beer is equally popular during summer days by the sea.
1. Cisk Lager: Malta’s Most Famous Beer
The most popular beer in Malta is Cisk Lager, brewed by Simonds Farsons Cisk plc since 1929.
Cisk is known for its:
- Crisp, refreshing taste
- Light malt flavour
- Smooth finish
Because it is so refreshing in warm weather, it is a favourite drink for swimming stops and relaxed boat trips around Malta’s coastline.
2. Malta’s Growing Craft Beer Scene
Malta’s craft beer scene has expanded rapidly in recent years. One of the most recognised breweries is Lord Chambray Brewery, known for producing high-quality beers inspired by European brewing traditions.
Their range includes:
- Crisp lagers
- Hoppy pale ales
- Seasonal craft brews
Many visitors enjoy bringing local craft beers on board while exploring hidden bays around Gozo.
Best Drinks to Enjoy at the Blue Lagoon
The famous Blue Lagoon is one of the most popular stops on Malta boat tours. With its turquoise water and shallow swimming areas, it’s the perfect place to relax with a chilled drink while anchored.
Popular choices include:
- Girgentina white wine
- Sparkling rosé
- Cisk Lager
Private charters operated by local companies such as GOZOblu Private Tours often include Blue Lagoon stops as part of personalised sailing itineraries. These experiences are particularly popular with couples seeking scenic and intimate sailing adventures, especially those looking for romantic Malta boat tours designed for couples and honeymooners.
Best Wines for Gozo Boat Trips
Sailing around Gozo reveals dramatic cliffs, sea caves, and quieter swimming spots compared with mainland Malta.
Because trips around Gozo tend to be slower and more scenic, many travellers enjoy bringing a selection of Maltese wines on board.
Popular choices include:
- Girgentina white wine
- Gellewza rosé
- Merlot-Syrah blends
Private sailing experiences with GOZOblu Private Tours allow guests to explore secluded coves while enjoying local wines and beers at sea. These private charters are also ideal for travellers planning private boat tours in Malta for small groups of friends or family who want a more personalised experience.
Drinks to Enjoy on a Malta Sunset Cruise
Sunset cruises are among the most memorable experiences in the Maltese Islands. As the sun sets over the Mediterranean, the changing colours of the sky create a perfect setting for relaxing with a drink.
The best drinks for sunset sailing include:
- Gellewza red wine
- Merlot-Syrah blends
- craft pale ales
These richer flavours complement the calm atmosphere of evening sailing.
Tips for Enjoying Drinks on a Malta Boat Tour
To make the most of your experience:
- Bring drinks chilled. Portable coolers help keep wine and beer refreshing in the Mediterranean heat. GOZOblu Private Tours provides a cooler on board along with complimentary bottled water to keep guests refreshed throughout the trip.
- Choose lighter drinks during the day. White wines and lagers are ideal for sunny swimming trips.
- Pair drinks with Mediterranean snacks. Olives, seafood, cheese, and fresh bread enhance the experience.
- Book the right type of tour. Private trips allow more flexibility for bringing your own drinks and enjoying quiet swimming locations. When choosing a tour, it’s also helpful to understand common mistakes travellers make when booking Malta boat tours, such as selecting overcrowded trips or overlooking weather conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions About Malta Boat Tours
Malta is best known for wines made from its indigenous grape varieties, Girgentina (white) and Gellewza (red), both of which grow well in the island’s Mediterranean climate.
The most popular Maltese beer is Cisk Lager, a crisp pale lager brewed locally since 1929.
Many private Malta boat tours allow guests to bring their own drinks on board, particularly wine, beer, and soft drinks. Some operators also provide coolers or refreshments.
Private boat tours around Gozo are popular because they allow visitors to explore hidden coves, sea caves, and quieter swimming areas at their own pace. GOZOblu Private Boat Tours specialise in personalised sailing experiences around Gozo, Comino, and the Blue Lagoon.
Sail, Sip, and Experience Malta
Exploring Malta by boat is already an unforgettable adventure, but pairing the journey with local wines and beers turns it into a true Mediterranean experience.
From sipping chilled Girgentina while swimming in the Blue Lagoon to enjoying a glass of Gellewza during a sunset sail, Malta’s drinks perfectly complement its spectacular coastal scenery.
Whether you prefer wine, beer, or both, discovering Malta’s local flavours while sailing across its turquoise waters is one of the most enjoyable ways to experience the islands.
