Sliema or St. Paul’s Bay: Best of Gozo and Comino Day Trip

Discovering Malta’s Gems: A Complete Look at the Best of Gozo and Comino Day Trip

If you’re eyeing a single day to soak in some of Malta’s most picturesque spots, the Best of Gozo and Comino tour offers a tempting package. For around $50, you’ll experience a blend of scenic coast cruising, cultural sights, and time for a refreshing swim in the infamous Blue Lagoon. It’s a busy day, but packed with highlights that make it well worth considering—if you’re after an authentic taste of these islands without breaking the bank.

One of the standout features of this tour is the combination of land and sea adventures, giving you a balanced view of Malta’s neighboring islands. Plus, the knowledgeable guides and well-organized transport help streamline what can be a logistical puzzle. The main drawback? The visits are quite condensed, meaning you’ll need to keep an eye on the clock if you want to make the most of each stop. This trip is ideal for those who enjoy a packed schedule and value seeing key sights in one day.

Key Points

• Cost-effective with a mix of boat and bus excursions, offering good value for the experience.
• Highlights include the medieval Citadel, the charming capital Victoria, and the Blue Lagoon’s crystal waters.
• Flexible free time at Victoria and Comino, allowing for personal exploration.
• Comfortable boat with WiFi, toilet facilities, and friendly staff enhance the cruise experience.
• Limited site entry; you’ll visit sites at leisure but won’t have guided tours inside attractions.
• Pass requirement for Blue Lagoon ashore disembarkation after May 2025 needs pre-booked access.

A Clear Day in the Sun: What to Expect from the Tour

The adventure kicks off early in the morning, departing from either Sliema Ferries or St. Paul’s Bay—your choice, when booking. The boat, a modern catamaran, sets out on a scenic cruise along Malta’s coast, giving you your first taste of the island’s rugged shoreline and turquoise waters. The cruise itself is a highlight—relaxing and comfortable with WiFi, toilets, and friendly crew ensuring a smooth voyage.

The Coastal Cruise and First Impressions

Cruising up Malta’s northeast coast, you’ll appreciate the beautiful vistas and the gentle sway of the boat, perfect for snapping photos or just soaking in the scenery. The commentary—delivered through a PA system in English—adds context to the sights, though it’s worth noting some reviews mention that accents can be a bit fast or thick, so bringing your own notes or listening carefully could help.

Arrival at Gozo and Victoria

Marr Harbour, Gozo’s main port, marks the start of your land adventure. Once ashore, a bus whisks you to Victoria, the island’s laid-back capital. With about 1.5 hours of free time, you can explore at your own pace, maybe wander through local shops or grab a coffee.

The highlight here is the Citadel, the medieval fortress that dominates the skyline. This impressive military structure offers spectacular views over the island, and many travelers, like the reviewer from Georgia, say guides make the visit more engaging. It’s a place where history feels alive, and the photos from the ramparts are truly worth the climb.

Exploring Gozo’s Charm

The guided bus tour provides a glimpse into Gozo’s rural beauty—church spires, terraced fields, and quiet villages. Although some guests mention that the free time could be longer, the overall impression is of an authentic experience that captures the island’s peaceful vibe.

Returning to the Boat and Moving to Comino

Back at Marr Harbour, you’ll reboard your boat for the short cruise to Comino. Here, the focus shifts to leisure and relaxation. The island has no cars, making it a serene escape, and the Blue Lagoon is the star attraction.

Blue Lagoon: The Main Event

Disembarking on Comino for roughly two hours, you’re free to swim, snorkel, sunbathe, or even explore some of the hiking trails. The crystal-clear waters and white sandy bottom create a postcard-perfect scene. Several reviews highlight the Blue Lagoon as breathtaking, though it can get crowded—so arriving early or choosing less busy times might enhance your experience.

Important to note: As of May 2025, disembarkation ashore requires an official access pass, which must be booked in advance. Failing to do so means you won’t be allowed onto the Blue Lagoon’s sandy shores, so plan accordingly if you want to swim or sunbathe.

What’s Included and What’s Not

You’ll enjoy a fully air-conditioned boat with WiFi, plus the convenience of toilet facilities. The trip also includes scenic cruising, audio commentary, and land transport in Gozo, making it a smooth, well-organized day.

However, it’s important to remember that food and drinks are not included**, so bringing some snacks or cash for a quick purchase is wise. Also, no guided tours are provided during your free time—so if you want a deeper dive into the sites, you’ll need to explore independently.

Optional Extras

For an additional fee, you can opt for a motorboat trip to the caves and Crystal Lagoon—an extra adventure for those seeking more thrill and exploration.

The Review from Travelers

Multiple guests highlight the professionalism of the crew and the smooth organization. One reviewer, Robert, mentions the crew as very helpful and friendly, making what can be a busy trip more comfortable. Another, Natia, praises the guides for making the experience engaging and memorable.

That said, some guests note the shorter-than-expected free time and the challenge of navigating the busy, sometimes chaotic, transportation at Gozo’s bus station. One visitor from March mentions the Blue Lagoon can be overwhelming with too many travelers, which is common in popular spots. Arriving early or later in the day might help avoid the crowds.

Who is This Tour Best Suited For?

This day trip suits budget-conscious travelers eager to see Malta’s nearby islands without the hassle of planning multiple transportation options. If you enjoy scenic boat cruises, light walking, and a relaxed afternoon in a stunning setting, you’ll love the leisurely pace and flexible free time.

It’s particularly good for first-time visitors wanting an overview of Gozo and Comino’s top sights, or those who prefer a self-guided exploration rather than guided tours.

However, if you’re looking for in-depth guided visits, or have mobility issues or seasickness, this might not be the best fit. The trip is fast-paced, and some sites are visited at a quick pace rather than in guided detail.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a practical and scenic way to experience Malta’s neighboring islands in just one day. The combination of boat cruising, free exploration, and time at the Blue Lagoon makes it an exciting, memorable experience—especially for those who enjoy a good balance of adventure and leisure.

While it’s not perfect—especially with the limited time at each stop—the value for money is clear, and the well-organized logistics help make the most of your day. The friendly crew, beautiful views, and iconic sites ensure it’s a worthwhile option for those wanting a snapshot of Malta’s beauty without a hefty price tag.

Perfect for curious travelers, first-timers, or anyone wanting a straightforward, enjoyable trip to Gozitan and Comino highlights, this tour ticks most boxes for a fun, affordable day out.

FAQ

Do I need to book the Blue Lagoon disembarkation pass in advance?
Yes, starting May 2025, you must pre-book an access pass online through the government website to disembark at the Blue Lagoon. Without it, you won’t be allowed ashore.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the scenic cruise, land transportation in Gozo, free time at Victoria and Comino, WiFi on the boat, and crew assistance.

Can I bring food and drinks?
No, food and drinks are not included, and you’ll need to bring your own if you want snacks or beverages during the day.

Is this a guided tour inside the sites?
No, this is not a guided tour inside the attractions. You have free time at Victoria and the Blue Lagoon to explore independently.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, towel, cash, and motion sickness prevention are recommended.

Is this suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, it’s not suitable for travelers with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, as some walking and bus steps may be challenging.

How long is the free time?
Approximately 1.5 hours in Victoria and about 2 hours at Comino, allowing for sightseeing, relaxing, or swimming.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Trips may be canceled or rescheduled if weather conditions are unsafe, so check the provider’s policy for cancellations or changes.

This trip is an excellent way to see Malta’s neighboring islands with minimal fuss, especially if you’re after stunning views, easy organization, and a relaxed pace. Be sure to plan ahead for the Blue Lagoon disembarkation pass and arrive early to beat the crowds.