Gozo: Private Boat Tour to Comino with Swim Stops

Exploring Comino by Private Boat: A Detailed Review of the Gozo Swim Stops Tour

Taking a boat tour around Comino is often touted as a must-do experience for visitors to Malta and Gozo, and for good reason. This private boat tour from Gozo offers an intimate way to enjoy Malta’s most stunning coastal sights, clear waters, and hidden caves, all with the flexibility that only a private charter can provide. Whether you’re after the famous Blue Lagoon or the lesser-known caves, this tour combines sightseeing, swimming, and tranquility into a three-hour adventure that’s hard to beat.

What we love most about this experience is the personalized approach—a dedicated skipper, a small group (or just your own), and the opportunity to customize your time at each stop. However, it’s worth noting that the duration is relatively short, so packing in all these highlights means a fast pace and careful planning. This tour is ideal for travelers who want a flexible, authentic way to explore Comino’s natural beauty without the crowds or the rush of larger group excursions.

If you’re someone who values authentic, scenic, and relaxing experiences on the water, this private tour is a fantastic choice. It’s especially suitable for couples, small groups, or families seeking a tailored adventure with plenty of swimming and photo opportunities. But if you’re looking for a longer, more comprehensive day out, this might feel a bit constrained in time.

Key Points

• Private and customizable: Experience a tailored boat trip with your own skipper and group.
• Swim in world-famous spots: Blue Lagoon and Crystal Lagoon for snorkeling and relaxing.
• Explore hidden caves: Discover the beauty of Crystal Cave, Santa Marija Caves, and sea caves.
• Scenic coastal views: Pass by historic landmarks like Santa Marija Tower and Elephant Rock.
• Ideal duration: Three hours is perfect for a quick but immersive taste of Comino’s highlights.
• All-included: Snorkeling gear, safety equipment, fuel, and music provided.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point: Mgarr Harbour in Gozo

The journey begins at the lively Mgarr Harbour, a hub for ferries and boat trips. You’ll meet your licensed skipper, who’s often described as friendly, knowledgeable, and eager to share insights about the area. The boat itself is exclusively for your group, which means no overcrowding and more freedom to move around or relax.

The Scenic Drive to Comino

Within five minutes, you’re underway, cruising past rugged coastlines and scenic cliffs. Many reviews mention how smooth the ride is, and that the boat’s onboard music system adds a fun, relaxed vibe. You’ll pass by notable landmarks such as the Santa Marija Tower—a 400-year-old structure perched on the cliffs—offering a glimpse into Malta’s defensive past and impressive photo opportunities.

Stop at Saint Mary’s Tower

Your first official stop is a quick photo session at Saint Mary’s Tower. While just a pass-by in some cases, this historical site adds context to the Maltese landscape and provides a great backdrop for photos. Reviewers note that this is a scenic drive with impressive views, making it a pleasing start to your tour.

Crystal Lagoon: Hidden Gem and Peaceful Swim Spot

Next, you’ll arrive at the Crystal Lagoon, a rare find with steep cliffs surrounding a peaceful, turquoise bay. Here, you’ll have about 40 minutes of free time—plenty of opportunity for swimming, snorkeling, and snapping photos of the striking landscape. Reviews highlight the Lagoon’s brilliant light effects bouncing off its walls, making it a magical place for underwater photography and quiet relaxation.

Discovering the Crystal Cave

A standout feature of this tour is the stop at the Crystal Cave—a lesser-known sea cave that’s often called a highlight. Reviewers describe it as a “hidden treasure,” with shimmering light effects created by the sun filtering through the water and cracks in the cave walls. Swimming here is a unique experience, and the tranquil waters make it ideal for both beginners and experienced snorkelers.

Cominotto Island and the Blue Lagoon

After the caves, your boat will cruise around Cominotto Island, a small uninhabited islet that plays a vital role in forming the Blue Lagoon. This iconic spot is described as dazzling, with perfectly clear, turquoise waters and white sandy seabed—ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Many reviews mention how crowded the Blue Lagoon can be during peak hours, so a private tour ensures you avoid large crowds and enjoy the scenery at your own pace.

San Niklaw Bay and Santa Marija Bay

Depending on timing, you might enjoy a peaceful swim at San Niklaw Bay, a quieter alternative to the Blue Lagoon. Some reviews mention that the bay is “a calm, scenic spot perfect for unwinding.” If time allows, your skipper may anchor at Santa Marija Bay, another quiet beach surrounded by greenery, offering more options for snorkeling or simply relaxing on deck.

Exploring Sea Caves and Natural Landmarks

A highlight for many is cruising along the sea caves carved into the cliffs, including Elephant Rock—a natural arch that resembles an elephant dipping its trunk into the sea. The Santa Marija Battery, an 18th-century fortress, also features in the scenic drive, adding a historical touch to the natural beauty.

End of the Trip and Return

The tour wraps up back at Mgarr Harbour after around 3 hours. Although the time feels quick, many guests appreciate the focused, high-quality experience and the chance to tick multiple highlights off their list without feeling rushed.

Practical Details and Value

The cost of this private 3-hour tour includes a licensed skipper, snorkeling gear, safety equipment, fuel, and music—offering excellent value for an intimate experience. The private group setting means you won’t be squeezed in with strangers, making it ideal for families, couples, or small groups.

The tour runs at various times during the day, but you’ll need to check availability. It’s perfect for those who want a flexible, personalized experience—whether that’s spending more time swimming or snapping photos of the coastline. The exclusion of children under 16 is notable, suggesting the tour is better suited for older kids, teens, or adults looking for a relaxing, scenic escape.

What to Bring

Travelers should come prepared with swimsuits, towels, sunscreen, a camera, and snacks or drinks if desired, as options are limited onboard. The boat is wheelchair accessible, making it a thoughtful choice for travelers with mobility needs.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This private Comino boat tour offers an authentic, flexible way to experience Malta’s most iconic sights. It’s a fantastic choice for adventurous swimmers eager to explore caves and lagoons, as well as those who prefer a tranquil, scenic cruise with personal attention. It works especially well for small groups or couples seeking a more intimate outing without the crowds of larger tours.

While the three-hour duration might feel brief if you’re craving a full-day adventure, the quality of stops and personalized service make it a rewarding experience. Plus, the ability to swim in the Blue Lagoon and Crystal Lagoon, along with discovering lesser-known caves, makes it a memorable Maltese highlight.

If you’re looking for a well-rounded, scenic, and private way to enjoy Comino’s natural beauty, this tour is definitely worth considering. It balances breathtaking views, genuine relaxation, and the chance to swim in some of Malta’s most stunning spots—delivered with a friendly skipper and all the essentials for a smooth trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children under 16? No, the tour is not suitable for children under 16 unless accompanied by an adult, as specified during booking.

What’s included in the price? The cost covers a private 3-hour boat trip, an experienced licensed skipper, snorkeling gear, safety equipment, fuel, and music.

Can I cancel the tour? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

How long do stops at each location last? The tour’s itinerary is flexible, but you can expect around 10 minutes at Saint Mary’s Tower, 40 minutes at Crystal Lagoon, and up to 45 minutes at Blue Lagoon.

What should I bring? It’s recommended to bring swimwear, towels, sunscreen, a camera, snacks, and drinks. The boat is wheelchair accessible.

Is the boat comfortable and safe? Yes, the boat is described as comfortable, with safety gear provided, and a knowledgeable skipper ensures a secure experience.

Can I customize the experience? Since it’s a private tour, your skipper can probably tailor the stops and timing—be sure to communicate any preferences in advance.

This private boat trip from Gozo to Comino provides a perfect balance of scenic beauty, relaxation, and personalized adventure. Whether you’re eager to snorkel in turquoise waters, explore caves, or just soak up the sun with stunning views, this tour offers a tailored experience that highlights the best of Malta’s inshore treasures.