Gozo and Comino Trip with Land Transportation in Gozo

Malta offers a treasure trove of coastal beauty, historic sites, and stunning islands, and this tour promises a well-rounded experience of some of its most iconic spots. We’ve looked into this 7 to 8-hour adventure — which combines a scenic boat cruise, land excursions, and leisure time — and found it to be a balanced blend of relaxation, sightseeing, and local flavor.

One thing we appreciate is the seamless combination of sea and land that allows you to soak up Malta’s charm from different perspectives. The highlight for many is the opportunity to visit Victoria, the charming capital of Gozo, with its medieval fortress, as well as the unmistakable allure of the Blue Lagoon’s turquoise waters.

However, a potential consideration is that this is not a guided tour — so you’ll need to be comfortable exploring on your own during free time. Plus, obtaining the government-issued Blue Lagoon access pass in advance is essential if you want to disembark there, and it’s something that requires proactive planning.

This trip fits best for travelers craving a relaxed yet comprehensive day on Malta’s surrounding islands, especially those interested in scenic vistas, leisurely exploration, and iconic swim spots.

Key Points

• Scenic boat cruise offers stunning coastal views of Malta, Gozo, and Comino during a comfortable catamaran ride.
• Free time in Victoria provides a chance to explore Gozo’s charming capital and its historic Citadel.
• Blue Lagoon is the trip’s centerpiece, with crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and photos.
• Flexible and affordable at around $54 per person, with good value for the variety of experiences.
• Land transportation in Gozo is included, making the logistics smoother.
• No guided commentary during land stops, so you’ll explore independently, but the cruise includes engaging English commentary.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Departure and Cruise Overview

The journey begins from either Sliema Ferries or Buibba Jetty, giving you options based on your accommodation or preferred starting point. The boat, described as air-conditioned with Wi-Fi and toilet facilities, ensures a comfortable ride for the approximately 1 to 1.5-hour cruise along Malta’s northeastern coast. As the vessel glides past coastal attractions, you’ll enjoy commentary over the PA system offering insights into the sights, making the cruise educational as well as scenic.

The brief stops in St. Paul’s Bay and Mgarr Harbour are primarily for boarding but serve as a reminder of Malta’s small, accessible harbors. You’ll quickly move on to the main moments of the day.

Stop 1: Gozo’s Mgarr Harbour

Reaching Gozo’s main harbor, Mgarr, marks the start of your land adventure. The ferry disembarkation is quick — around 10 minutes — which keeps the momentum up. From here, a comfortable bus transfer takes you to Victoria, the island’s lively heart.

Stop 2: Victoria and the Citadel

Once in Victoria, you’ll have approximately 1.5 hours of free time. This is an ideal window to wander the maze of streets, browse local shops, and soak in the relaxed small-town atmosphere. The Citadel Fortress is a star attraction, offering panoramic views of Gozitan countryside and the sea, along with a glimpse into the island’s medieval past.

While the tour doesn’t include a guided visit, many travelers find the freedom to explore at their own pace rewarding. Some reviews mention that the guide’s commentary during the cruise added valuable context, but during the land stop, it’s all about personal discovery.

Stop 3: Blue Lagoon on Comino

Returning to Mgarr Harbour, the bus will ferry you back to the boat for the trip to Comino Island. Once you arrive, you’re free to swim, sunbathe, or simply admire the crystal-clear turquoise waters of the Blue Lagoon. The free time here is around 2 hours, giving ample opportunity for a swim, snorkel, or just lounging on the boat deck.

A useful tip from past travelers is that the boat departs and picks you up later, so you don’t have to worry about rushing. The Blue Lagoon’s fame is well-deserved — many describe it as a “must-see” for Malta visitors, with reviewers praising the transparency of the waters and the peacefulness of the surroundings.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Scenic Boat Experience

Traveling on a modern catamaran with Wi-Fi makes the cruise part of the trip feel comfortable and modern. The view of Malta’s coastline, especially as you approach Gozo and Comino, is spectacular, offering plenty of photo opportunities. The cruise’s relaxing pace provides a break from busy sightseeing days, and the English commentary enriches your understanding of what you’re seeing.

Land Exploration with Flexibility

The free time in Victoria allows travelers to tailor their experience — whether visiting the Citadel, browsing boutiques, or grabbing a coffee. The small group size (max 170 travelers) ensures a less crowded, more relaxed atmosphere, even during peak season.

Unique Island Highlights

• Gozo’s quiet charm and historic sites are accessible without extra cost, making this a good value.
• The Blue Lagoon’s famous waters are definitely the highlight for many, especially given the opportunity to swim in pristine, clear waters that look like they belong in a postcard.

Practical Details That Matter

The price point (~$54) is reasonable considering the included boat rides, land transportation, and free time. The trip’s flexibility — choosing departure points and times, and optional add-ons like the boat caves tour — offers customization. The free Wi-Fi onboard is a thoughtful touch, allowing you to share your experience instantly or plan your next move.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

One reviewer mentioned that the trip was well-organized, with easy-to-find departure points. They pointed out that the big red “I see Malta” boat was a straightforward marker, easing the start of their day.

Another noted that the free time in Victoria was the perfect chance to explore at leisure, and the views from the Citadel were worth the visit alone. A highlight was the Blue Lagoon, described as “absolutely breathtaking,” with some travelers commenting on how the transparent waters make it a “perfect swimming spot.”

Most appreciated the value for money — for just over fifty dollars, they gained a scenic cruise, land exploration, and relaxing time at two of Malta’s most famous islands. Nonetheless, some pointed out that obtaining the Blue Lagoon access pass in advance is crucial, as without it, disembarkation is not guaranteed.

The Sum Up

This Gozo and Comino trip offers a well-balanced day of sightseeing, relaxation, and natural beauty. The combination of a scenic boat cruise, free exploration in Victoria, and a swim at the iconic Blue Lagoon makes it particularly attractive for travelers who want to see Malta’s highlights without feeling rushed.

The value is hard to beat, especially considering the included transport, Wi-Fi, and free-time flexibility. It’s ideal for those who enjoy a laid-back pace, stunning visuals, and a taste of local life. The tour is less suitable for travelers who prefer guided, in-depth historical tours or those with mobility challenges, given the free exploration aspect and the need to plan for Blue Lagoon access passes.

If you’re looking for a photo-friendly, relaxing, and scenic day trip with a good dose of Maltese coastlines and island charm, this experience will likely tick all your boxes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to book the Blue Lagoon access pass in advance?
Yes, starting from May 2025, you must obtain an official government pass from blcomino.com if you want to disembark at the Blue Lagoon. The passes are limited and should be booked when you reserve your tour to ensure entry.

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
Most travelers can participate, but keep in mind the trip involves some walking and free exploration. The boat ride and swim at the Blue Lagoon are generally family-friendly, but younger children should be supervised for safety in the water.

Are meals included in the price?
No, food and drinks are not included. You should plan to bring snacks or purchase food during your free time in Victoria or at the Blue Lagoon.

What should I bring with me?
Bring swimwear, towels, sunscreen, a hat, and a camera. The boat has toilet facilities, but it’s good to be prepared for a day outdoors.

Is this tour guided?
No, it’s not guided. The cruise includes commentary, but the land stops are free-time, so you’ll explore independently.

What if the weather is bad?
If weather conditions prevent the trip from proceeding, you’ll be offered a reschedule or full refund. The company can also adapt the itinerary if necessary due to weather.

How early should I arrive at the departure point?
It’s recommended to arrive 15-20 minutes beforehand to ensure smooth boarding.

Can I take large luggage with me?
Large luggage and suitcases are not allowed on the boat, so plan for small bags only.

How long is the free time at Victoria and the Blue Lagoon?
Approximately 1.5 hours in Victoria and 2 hours at the Blue Lagoon, giving enough time for sightseeing and swimming.

Are there optional activities?
Yes, you can book an optional motorboat trip to the caves and Crystal Lagoon on-site for around €15, weather permitting.

This trip packs a lot into one day, offering an authentic taste of Malta’s natural beauty and historic charm. Whether you want to relax by the water, explore medieval streets, or snap stunning photos, it’s a solid choice for your Maltese adventure.