Boat Rental MaltaSelf-Drive — No Licence — From €55
Hire a self-drive boat and explore Malta's limestone sea caves, turquoise coves and the Blue Grotto coastline at your own pace. No boating licence required.
Self-Drive Boat Options
Two unique self-drive options — neither requires a boating licence. Both include full safety equipment and briefing.
Self-Drive Boat — Hydra 530 (17ft)
The Hydra 530 is a 17ft open motorboat with a 60HP engine — clean, reliable and comfortable enough for a full day on the water. No licence is required: you'll get a briefing on the controls before dep…
Fiat 500 Boat — Self Drive
It's exactly what it looks like. A genuine Fiat 500 body, stripped of everything below the dashboard, mounted on a purpose-built boat hull with a marine engine. You steer it like a car — steering whee…
What's Included in Your Boat Rental
Where You Can Go
Departing from St Thomas Bay, you can explore the most dramatic stretch of Malta's coastline. The area is packed with sea caves, limestone arches, and hidden inlets that are completely inaccessible from land.
- →Sea caves and arches along the south coast
- →Blue Grotto area — snorkelling in crystal-clear water
- →Hidden coves only accessible by boat
- →Delimara Point and Marsaxlokk Bay
- →Rocky inlets with perfect swimming spots
- →Open sea (conditions permitting)
Do I Really Need No Licence?
Yes. Maltese maritime law does not require a boating licence to operate a small motorboat under 6 metres with an engine below 30HP. You need to be 18 or older. We handle all the paperwork — you just show up and go.
First Time on a Boat?
No problem. Our staff give a thorough briefing covering the controls, safety procedures, permitted zones and the best spots to visit. Most first-timers are confident within 5 minutes of being on the water.
Boat Rental Malta — FAQ
Do I need a licence to rent a boat in Malta?
No. In Malta, boats under 6 metres and with an engine below 30HP can be rented and driven without any boating licence. You only need to be 18 or over and provide a valid photo ID. A safety briefing is given before you depart.
What boats can I rent without a licence in Malta?
We offer two self-drive options that require no licence: the Hydra 530 (17ft open boat) and the Fiat 500 Boat. Both come with full safety equipment, a map of permitted zones, and a thorough briefing before departure.
What is included in the boat rental?
All boat rentals include fuel, life jackets, safety equipment, a waterproof map, and a full briefing. You can bring your own food, drinks, snorkel gear and speaker. Swimming stops in sea caves and coves are encouraged.
How far can I go on the rental boat?
You can explore the entire south coast between Marsaxlokk Bay and the Blue Grotto area — approximately 15 km of coastline. The briefing explains the permitted zones, weather checkpoints, and recommended sea cave stops.
Can I anchor and swim?
Yes — anchoring and swimming are a big part of the experience. You'll receive recommended stops including sea caves, limestone arches, and clear sheltered inlets. Snorkelling is excellent in this area.
What is the Fiat 500 Boat?
The Fiat 500 Boat is a fibreglass boat designed and painted to look exactly like a classic Fiat 500 car. It's one of Malta's most unique and photographed experiences. Self-drive, no licence needed, seating for up to 4 people.
How many people can fit on the rental boat?
The Hydra 530 (17ft) can carry up to 8 people. The Fiat 500 Boat can carry up to 4 people. For larger groups, multiple boats can be hired together.