Mgarr ix-Xini: Why This Secluded Gozo Bay is a Must-Visit by Boat



If you are looking for the ultimate "off-the-beaten-path" experience on your Gozo adventure, look no further than Mġarr ix-Xini. This narrow, fjord-like inlet is one of the most picturesque and tranquil spots in the Maltese islands. While its beauty is world-famous, getting there by land can be a challenge—making a private boat tour the absolute best way to experience it.


Photo by Cascun Photos


Why Visit by Boat?


The road to Mġarr ix-Xini is notoriously steep, narrow, and difficult to navigate. Parking at the bottom is extremely limited, often leading to disappointment for those driving. When you arrive by boat with Aloha Boat Charters, you skip the stress of the narrow roads and enjoy:

  • A Grand Entrance: Experience the dramatic sight of the steep limestone cliffs from the water, just as the Knights of Malta did centuries ago.
  • Instant Access: No hiking or searching for parking—we drop you right into the clearest waters Gozo has to offer.
  • Complete Privacy: While the small pebble beach can get "cosy," your private boat serves as your own exclusive island in the middle of the bay.


A Snorkeling Paradise


Mġarr ix-Xini is widely considered one of the top 10 sites for snorkeling in Malta and Gozo. The bay's unique geography creates calm, sheltered conditions that are perfect for spotting rare marine life:

  • Seahorse Spotting: The bay is a known breeding ground for the rare Long-Snouted Seahorse, often found clinging to seagrass beds along the rocky edges.
  • Underwater Caves: Explore small caverns and rock formations teeming with octopus, moray eels, and schools of colorful fish.
  • Incredible Visibility: The clear, deep water often offers visibility up to 30 meters, making it a dream for underwater photography.

A Touch of Hollywood & History


Beyond the nature, the bay holds a rich history. A 17th-century watchtower still stands guard over the entrance, once used by the Knights of St. John to protect the small harbor. More recently, its untouched beauty caught the eye of Hollywood; the bay was the primary filming location for the movie "By the Sea," starring Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt.


Book Your Gozo Hidden Gem Tour

Don't let the difficult land access stop you from seeing this paradise. At Aloha Boat Charters, we include Mġarr ix-Xini as a highlight of our Gozo boat tours.

Contact us today to book your private charter and experience the tranquility and underwater wonders of Mġarr ix-Xini for yourself.

Book Your Comino Boat Trip Today:

Contact us on +356 99829198 to reserve your spot on our Comino boat trips. Our friendly team is available to answer any questions and assist you in planning an unforgettable experience.



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