RIBs and Dinghies: What’s the Actual Difference
In Malta’s rental market, “dinghy” usually means a small inflatable or rigid open boat, typically under 6 metres, often with a small outboard, and licence-free to operate. “RIB” means rigid inflatable boat, which is a hybrid of a fibreglass hull and inflatable tubes around the sides. RIBs come in all sizes, from small day boats to serious offshore vessels with twin diesel engines, and they’re easily the most common rental boat type in Malta.
The two reasons RIBs dominate here: stability and forgiveness. The inflatable tubes give you positive buoyancy and a soft contact point if you bump a quay or another boat. The rigid hull gives you proper handling in chop. Together they make RIBs a sensible choice for both novice self-drive renters and experienced skippered charters.
Self-Drive Dinghies and Small RIBs in Malta
The entry-level option is a small self-drive RIB or dinghy under 6 metres with a 15 to 30HP outboard. No licence required. These are the boats you’ll see lined up at rental kiosks in St Paul’s Bay, Mellieha, and various spots in Gozo. Typical specs: 5 to 5.5 metres long, seats for 4 to 6 people, basic anchor and life jackets included, fuel charged separately or capped.
Pricing is reasonable. Half-day rentals run €50 to €100, full-day €80 to €160. The day works well for coastal pottering, swimming stops in nearby bays, and short hops along the coast. Don’t try to cross to Comino in one of these unless conditions are genuinely calm. The crossing is exposed and a small RIB with a 15HP engine is going to be slow and uncomfortable.
Larger Skippered RIB Charter in Malta
The next category up is skippered RIBs in the 7 to 10 metre range. These are proper offshore boats with twin engines, comfortable seating, sometimes a small cabin, and the speed and range to do meaningful day trips. Comino round-trips, Gozo coastal exploration, and access to caves that smaller boats can’t reach.
Skippered RIB charters in Malta are popular for groups of 6 to 12 who want speed without the price of a sport yacht or motor cruiser. They’re the workhorses of the Maltese charter scene. Day rates run €350 to €600 for half a day and €600 to €1,000 for a full day, skipper included.
Why a RIB Is Often the Right Choice
For coastal exploration, particularly anywhere with swell or current, a RIB handles better than a flat-bottomed day boat or a heavier cabin cruiser. The hull design and the soft tubes mean less slamming, more responsive handling, and a more comfortable ride for guests.
RIBs also have genuinely good access to swimming and snorkelling spots. The low freeboard means it’s easy to step off the boat into the water and easy to get back on. Smaller boats can get into shallow bays and tight cave entrances that bigger vessels can’t reach. The Comino caves on the eastern side of the island are mostly accessible by RIB only.
Practical Notes
Self-drive RIBs require a brief instruction session before you head out. Take it seriously even if you’ve driven boats before. Maltese coastal regulations have specific rules about anchoring, no-go zones near beaches, and right-of-way for ferries that aren’t always obvious to visitors.
Fuel use on small RIBs is modest (a 15HP outboard might use €20 to €30 of fuel for a full day), but it adds up on bigger skippered RIBs (€100 to €200 for a Comino day trip).
Browse Malta’s RIB and dinghy fleet below. Filter by self-drive or skippered and the size of your group. Smaller self-drive RIBs are usually instant-bookable. Larger skippered RIBs need an enquiry to confirm availability.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to hire a RIB or dinghy in Malta?
Self-drive dinghies and small RIBs under 6 metres run €50 to €100 for half a day and €80 to €160 for a full day. Larger skippered RIBs in the 7 to 10 metre range cost €350 to €600 for a half day and €600 to €1,000 for a full day with skipper included. Fuel is usually charged separately or capped, particularly on the bigger boats.
Do I need a licence to drive a dinghy or RIB in Malta?
No licence is needed for self-drive RIBs and dinghies under 6 metres with engines up to 30HP — the operator gives you a brief instruction handover before you head out. Anything larger or more powerful needs a Maltese or recognised nautical licence, or you’ll need to book a skippered charter. Larger skippered RIBs are always run by a qualified skipper.
Where do RIB hires depart from in Malta?
Self-drive dinghies and small RIBs are picked up from rental kiosks in St Paul’s Bay, Mellieha, Bugibba, and various spots in Gozo. Larger skippered RIBs typically depart from Sliema, Msida marina, or St Julian’s, with some operating out of Mgarr harbour on Gozo. Pickup details are confirmed by the operator at booking.
When is the best time of year for RIB hire in Malta?
May through October is the main season for RIB and dinghy hire. Small self-drive boats are best in calm conditions, so settled summer weather is ideal. June and September give you warm water and reliable sea state without the July–August crowds. Larger skippered RIBs handle wider conditions and run through the shoulder months too.