From Sliema or Bugibba: Two Islands Ferry to Comino and Gozo

If you’re looking for a way to see more of Malta beyond its main towns, this ferry tour to Comino and Gozo offers a relaxed and flexible way to explore two of the archipelago’s most captivating smaller islands. For about $41 per person, you get a seven-hour adventure with the freedom to hop off and explore at your own pace, making it ideal for those who enjoy a mix of scenic cruising and spontaneous discovery.

What really makes this experience appealing is the ability to choose your departure point—either from the lively Sliema or the quieter Bugibba—and to decide whether you want to visit one or both islands. The highlight is undoubtedly the chance to swim in the famous Blue Lagoon and to explore charming villages on Gozo. That said, some travelers might find the scheduled timing a little tight if they’re eager to spend a longer time onshore, but overall, it’s a good value for a day of island-hopping.

This tour is best suited for travelers who love scenic boat rides, want the flexibility to explore at their own pace, and are comfortable with a 7-hour window that includes some travel time. It’s a great option for those who prioritize authentic island experiences over large-group organized tours. Now, let’s unpack what you can expect along the way.

Key Points

• Flexible hop-on hop-off format allows you to explore both islands at your own pace
• Scenic ferry ride offers stunning views of Malta’s northeast coast
• Blue Lagoon swim is a major highlight for crystal-clear waters and relaxation
• Departure options from Sliema or Bugibba cater to your preferred start point
• Includes Wi-Fi and restrooms onboard, making the journey comfortable
• Additional experiences like caves trips are available between June-September for an extra fee

The Overall Experience

This ferry tour offers a refreshing way to see Malta’s lesser-known islands without the hassle of arranging separate transport or guided tours. V. Tabone Travel, the operator, provides a well-organized service that balances flexibility with convenience. Whether you choose to start from Sliema or Bugibba, the journey begins with a breathtaking boat cruise along Malta’s northeast coast. The catamaran ferry is modern, spacious, and equipped with Wi-Fi and restrooms, ensuring comfort during your 7-hour adventure.

The ferry ride itself is part of the charm. The views of Malta’s rugged coastline and the open ocean are especially photogenic—don’t forget your camera. You’ll have the choice between outdoor seating for prime scenery or an air-conditioned indoor space if the sun gets too intense. The crew is generally friendly and helpful, contributing to a relaxed atmosphere.

Exploring Comino: The Blue Lagoon and Beyond

Most travelers come for the Blue Lagoon, famous for its unbelievably clear, turquoise waters. It’s an excellent spot for swimming, sunbathing, or simply floating in the refreshing water. As one reviewer put it, “Great day out. When we got back to our Harbour it was too rough to dock, so we had to go to the next harbour where buses were laid on. The driver was amazing and took us back to our hotel door.” This highlights that weather can influence the experience, but the crew makes efforts to ensure smooth logistics.

While time can feel a bit tight to explore Comino thoroughly, the generous swim time and easy access to the lagoon make it worthwhile. You can also explore Comino’s caves if you choose to buy a separate boat trip during the summer months, which adds an optional adventure element for those interested.

Discovering Gozo: Charming Villages and Relaxed Atmosphere

After Comino, the ferry continues to Gozo, Malta’s smaller sister island. Unlike the busy main island, Gozo offers a laid-back vibe with traditional fishing villages, rural landscapes, and historic sites. Many visitors mentioned the helpfulness of guides and crew members, who provide useful tips about local spots and hidden gems.

The timing means you’ll arrive mid-morning, giving you a couple of hours to explore villages like Victoria or Xlendi. Some reviews suggest that the schedule is a little limited, especially if you want more time to wander. However, the opportunity to hop on and off makes it easy to prioritize your preferred sights—be it a leisurely lunch by the waterfront or a quick look at local markets.

Transportation and Practical Aspects

The ferry service is straightforward, with clear departure points and timings. The prices are reasonable considering what’s included—the hop-on hop-off tickets cover the entire day, and the additional amenities like Wi-Fi and restrooms onboard enhance the comfort of the cruise.

Transfers back to Sliema or Bugibba hotels are included in the ticket, which is a big plus. This makes it more convenient than self-organized trips and reduces the hassle of planning your return journey. The group size tends to be manageable, and reviews highlight the helpful support from the crew.

While the price might seem modest, keep in mind that food and drinks are extra—available for purchase onboard and ashore. If you plan to stay longer on each island, bringing some snacks or planning for quick meals might be wise.

Considerations and Potential Drawbacks

Some travelers, like Theresa, noted that “it would be nice to also have the option to go back to Sliema later than leaving at 4 pm,” suggesting that the current schedule offers limited free time onshore. If exploring at a leisurely pace is your goal, this might feel rushed.

Weather can also influence your experience. One reviewer shared that “it was too rough to dock,” which can affect the safety and comfort of the return trip. While the crew does their best to adapt, it’s something to keep in mind, especially during off-peak seasons.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

Several travelers praised the knowledgeable guides and helpful crew. For example, one reviewer called a driver “amazing” for taking them to their hotel after a rough day. Others enjoyed the stunning views and the efficiency of the organization, noting that everything ran smoothly.

The scenic boat ride was consistently highlighted as a major plus, with many mentioning how relaxing and scenic the journey was. The opportunity to swim in the Blue Lagoon was frequently described as the highlight—particularly appreciated for the crystal-clear waters and the chance to cool off after sightseeing.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This ferry tour offers a cost-effective and flexible way to experience Malta’s smaller islands without the need for guided group tours or complicated logistics. It’s perfect if you love spontaneous exploration, enjoy scenic boat rides, and want to make the most of your day in Malta.

You’ll enjoy the beautiful views, the freedom to hop on and off, and the chance to relax in the Blue Lagoon. The included hotel transfers make the day more comfortable, especially if you’re staying in Sliema or Bugibba. However, if you’re after more time onshore or a more structured schedule, you might find the timing a bit tight.

This trip is a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation—an excellent addition to any Malta itinerary for those who want a taste of island life with the flexibility to customize their day.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The hop-on hop-off ferry tickets from Sliema or Bugibba are included, along with onboard restrooms, Wi-Fi, and hotel transfers back to your accommodation in Sliema, St. Julian’s, Bugibba, Qawra, or Mellieha.

Can I choose where to depart from?
Yes, you can select your departure point from either Sliema or Bugibba, depending on your convenience.

How long is the ferry ride?
The entire experience lasts approximately 7 hours, including travel time and island stops. Check specific departure times to plan your day.

Is food or drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included but can be purchased on board or ashore. You might want to bring snacks or plan meals accordingly.

Can I stay longer on each island?
While the schedule offers limited time, the hop-on hop-off system allows you to explore at your own pace. However, the departure times mean your exploration might be somewhat constrained.

Are there additional activities available?
Yes, between June and September, you can buy tickets for the Comino Caves boat trip, which offers a closer look at caves around Comino.

Is Wi-Fi available onboard?
Yes, Wi-Fi is provided on the ferry, making it easy to share your photos or stay connected during the trip.

What should I bring?
Bring beachwear, a towel, comfortable shoes, and sun protection. Remember to have your camera ready for scenic views.

What if the weather is rough?
Weather can impact the trip; if seas are choppy, the crew may adjust plans or routes to ensure safety. Some reviews mention rough conditions affecting docking.

Is this experience suitable for families?
Most likely, yes. The relaxed pace and scenic views make it a good option for families, though young children should be supervised during swim stops.

This ferry tour to Comino and Gozo offers a delightful way to experience Malta’s smaller islands without the constraints of a guided tour. With its flexible itinerary, scenic boat rides, and the chance to swim in Blue Lagoon, it appeals to travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation. Just remember to plan for limited time ashore if you want to explore thoroughly, and keep an eye on weather conditions for the best experience.