Fishing Charters in Ta Xbiex Malta

Malta’s big game fishing charter starts early, heads out from Ta’ Xbiex, and gives you a real chance to battle tuna, bonito, mahi mahi, and other strong fish. The crew, including skippers Sebastian and Jake, supplies the gear and stays close when a fish takes the line. Several outings have brought tuna action soon after sunrise, though fishing never comes with a guarantee.

I like two things here: the charter is private, so your group is not mixed with strangers, and the crew lets beginners take part rather than simply doing the hard work for them. I also like the unusual option of having your catch cooked at a fine dining restaurant, arranged in advance for an extra charge. The main drawback is space. Five people are accepted, but four is a better limit when a large fish starts pulling hard.

Key points at a glance

• Sunrise departure: Meet at Roland Marina, ix-Xatt Ta’ Xbiex, at 6:00 am to reach the fishing grounds early.
• Private boat: Only your group takes part, with space for up to five people. Four is more comfortable for big-fish battles.
• Experienced skippers: Sebastian and Jake are praised for boat handling, local fishing knowledge, and patient help with the rods.
• Big fish, real uncertainty: Tuna, bonito, mahi mahi, and other fish are possible, but some days produce little action.
• Catch options: Bluefin tuna are released when required, while some other fish may be taken home. Restaurant cooking is available as an extra if arranged ahead.
• Seven hours on the water: You return to the Ta’ Xbiex meeting point after the fishing session.

Leaving Ta’ Xbiex before the sun is high

The day begins at Roland Marina in Ta’ Xbiex at 6:00 am. That early start is not just a scheduling quirk. It helps the boat reach the fishing area around sunrise, when the crew has a better chance of finding active fish and you get the cooler, calmer part of the morning.

You should plan to arrive ready to board, with sun protection already in your bag. Malta’s sunlight is strong at sea, and one fishing trip specifically highlighted how quickly the sun can become a problem offshore. Bring plenty of sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, water, and clothing that can handle spray and a long morning outside.

The company says meeting times can sometimes be adjusted. Still, 6:00 am is the recommended time if you want the best chance of reaching the fishing grounds early. Ask about any change before you rely on a later start, since a delayed departure may reduce the time available at the main fishing area.

The trip ends where it begins, back at the Ta’ Xbiex marina. That makes the arrangement simple, especially if you are staying nearby or using public transport. The meeting point is near public transportation, but the supplied information does not specify the exact routes or walking directions, so check those details before departure.

The boat, crew, and space on board

Big Game Adventures runs this as a private activity. That matters more than it might at first seem. Your group controls the day, and you are not sharing the boat with a separate party that has different expectations about fishing, conversation, or how long to spend at a particular spot.

The crew members named for this experience are Sebastian and Jake. They are described as skilled skippers and active fishing guides, with Sebastian also helping first-time fishers learn how to use the equipment. Jake has been praised for assisting people through the fight instead of simply taking over.

The boat is described positively in several accounts, including comments about its condition, safety equipment, and fishing setup. Big Game Adventures also says it uses high-quality rods, reels, bait, and other gear. You do not need to assemble a tackle kit for this outing, which makes it easier for a first-time angler to join.

Space deserves a clear warning. Five people can board, but the operator does not recommend more than four. That is sensible when a tuna takes the line and the person holding the rod needs room to move. One disappointing outing involved five adults on a small RIB, with the group finding it cramped. The company responded by offering a larger boat for a future booking, but you should settle the boat size and group number before paying.

Sunrise fishing and the first run of the day

Once the boat reaches the fishing area, the crew sets up the equipment and explains what to do. The experience is aimed at big game fishing, but you do not need to arrive as an expert. If you have never held a heavy rod before, the crew can show you how to work with the fish and help when the pressure becomes difficult.

The first hours may bring the most excitement. One outing had a tuna on the line by about 6:45 am, followed by several more hookups before 10:00 am. Only one fish reached the boat on that particular morning, which is a useful reminder that getting a bite and landing a fish are two different achievements.

Large fish can be powerful and tiring. You may need to follow instructions closely, keep the rod under control, and move around the deck as the fish changes direction. The crew’s role is important here, both for safety and for helping you enjoy the fight instead of feeling lost.

The main target can include giant bluefin tuna. Some fish of this size have been caught and released, and you should not assume that a tuna will be yours to take home. The captain will explain the relevant handling and release arrangements. This is part of the experience, not a failed result. Landing a large fish, taking a photo, and releasing it can still be the central memory of the day.

What you might catch, and what happens afterward

The fishing is not limited to one species. Accounts of this charter include tuna, bonito, and mahi mahi, along with a variety of smaller fish. Dolphins have also been seen during one outing, though wildlife sightings are an extra surprise rather than a promised part of the trip.

Bonito can put up a lively fight, making them good fish for someone new to the sport. Mahi mahi may sometimes be taken home, and one skipper filleted the catch so the group could prepare it later. Ask the crew what you may keep on your specific date, since the answer depends on the species, local rules, and the day’s catch.

The special food option is having the freshly caught fish cooked at a fine dining restaurant. This is not included automatically. You need to tell Big Game Adventures in advance if you want to arrange it, and the cooking is an extra charge. That detail is worth confirming before the trip, especially if the restaurant meal is part of your plan.

If you prefer to take fish home, ask about filleting and transport before leaving the marina. The company has provided filleting in the past, but the supplied details do not promise it for every catch. A quick conversation with the skipper can prevent confusion at the end of a long day.

Fishing success is never guaranteed

This is the most important expectation to set. A big game charter gives you the boat, equipment, crew, and a better chance of finding fish. It cannot control the weather, water conditions, fish movement, or whether a hooked fish reaches the deck.

Some outings have produced several tuna hookups and multiple memorable fights. Others have brought only a bonito or small fish. One trip spent much of the day near a fish farm, with the group unhappy because it expected more traditional open-water big game fishing. The company acknowledged a communication problem and offered a future discount and a larger boat.

That mixed result does not make the charter a bad choice, but it does mean you should ask direct questions. Confirm the planned fishing style, expected boat, group size, target species, and any restaurant or barbecue plan. The more specific your expectations, the easier it is for the skipper to match the day to your group.

I would book this for the chance to fish rather than for a guaranteed catch. If catching a large tuna is the only acceptable outcome, no charter can honestly promise that. If you enjoy the process, the sea, the early start, and the excitement of a hard strike, the uncertain result is easier to accept.

Who will get the most from this charter

This experience suits a small group of friends or family members who want a private day at sea. It also works for beginners. The crew has helped people with no fishing background, and the best parts of the trip do not depend on already knowing how to cast, read the water, or manage a large reel.

Experienced anglers may appreciate the equipment, local experience, and chance to pursue larger fish around Malta. One repeat customer reported several successful trips, with Sebastian teaching the group how to fish and helping prepare the catch afterward.

Couples can also enjoy the trip, particularly if one person is keen on fishing and the other wants a private boat outing with a clear goal. But this is not a sightseeing cruise with fishing added as a small extra. You spend about seven hours focused on the water, the gear, and the possibility of a strike.

I would hesitate to recommend it to anyone who dislikes early mornings, strong sun, boat movement, or long stretches without action. Seasickness has affected at least one participant, so bring any personal remedies you normally use. The supplied information does not list a specific seasickness policy, so ask the operator about practical precautions if you are concerned.

Is $65 good value?

At $65, the price looks appealing for a private seven-hour fishing experience, especially since the boat, fishing equipment, crew assistance, and return to the starting marina are part of the basic outing. For a small group splitting the cost, the value becomes even better.

Still, check exactly what the price includes before you book. The restaurant cooking option costs extra, and any special food arrangement must be made in advance. The information also does not state that hotel pickup, meals, drinks, or personal fishing licenses are included, so do not assume those extras are covered.

The value depends on your group size and expectations. Four people have more room and can share the cost while still moving around the boat during a fight. Five people may lower the per-person cost, but the operator itself says the boat can feel crowded at that number.

The equipment and personal instruction add real value for beginners. You are not paying simply for transport to the sea. You are paying for a skipper who handles the boat, sets up the fishing, and helps you manage a strong fish. The cost is harder to justify if your group expects a large catch every time, since fishing success remains uncertain.

Practical details before you book

Confirmation is sent within 48 hours, subject to availability. Since the experience begins early and depends on the right boat and crew, I would avoid leaving the booking until the last minute if your Malta schedule is tight.

The activity is suitable for most participants, and service animals are allowed. It is a private activity for your own group. The operator accepts up to five people, but four is the recommended maximum for comfort and quick movement.

The charter needs good weather. If poor conditions cause cancellation, you can choose another date or receive a full refund. You can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before the start time. Cancellations or changes made within 24 hours are not refunded or accepted, using Malta’s local time as the cut-off.

Should you book Big Game Adventures?

Book it if you want a small, private fishing day with capable skippers, proper equipment, and a genuine chance at hard-fighting fish. It is especially suitable for first-time anglers who want hands-on help, and for experienced fishers who prefer a compact group rather than a crowded shared boat.

Before you confirm, ask which boat will be used, keep the group to four if possible, and state clearly if you want open-water big game fishing, a cooked catch, or a particular food arrangement. Pack strong sun protection and accept that some days bring action while others do not.

For $65, the charter offers a lot of time on the water and a useful level of crew support. Just treat the catch as a bonus, not a promise. That is the fair way to judge a fishing trip, and it gives Big Game Adventures the best chance to deliver a memorable morning in Malta.

FAQ

Where does the fishing charter start?

The charter starts at Roland Marina, ix-Xatt Ta’ Xbiex, Ta’ Xbiex, Malta.

What time does the charter begin?

The recommended start time is 6:00 am. The company may arrange a different meeting time if agreed in advance.

How long does the fishing experience last?

The activity lasts approximately seven hours.

Where does the charter finish?

The activity ends back at the meeting point at Roland Marina.

How many people can join?

The boat accepts up to five people, but the operator recommends no more than four because larger fish require room to move around.

Is this a private fishing trip?

Yes. Only your group participates in this private activity.

Are fishing rods and equipment provided?

Yes. Big Game Adventures provides fishing gear and says it uses high-quality equipment and bait.

Do I need previous fishing experience?

No. Most people can participate, and the crew can help beginners learn how to use the rod and handle fish.

Can I have my catch cooked at a restaurant?

Yes, freshly caught fish can be cooked at a fine dining restaurant for an extra charge. You must request this in advance.

What happens if the weather is poor?

If the charter is canceled because of poor weather, you can choose another date or receive a full refund.