Malta: Gozo, Comino, Blue & Crystal Lagoon, & Caves Cruise

Thinking about exploring Malta beyond its bustling cities and historic sites? This full-day boat cruise offers a chance to see some of the most captivating sights around the islands, from the turquoise waters of Blue Lagoon to the dramatic caves and charming streets of Gozo. With a rating of 4.6 out of 5 from over 5,000 reviews, this experience has clearly left many travelers with memories worth cherishing — and quite a few saying they’d do it again.

One thing we really love about this tour is the variety packed into just seven hours. You get to swim in pristine waters, explore two different islands, and take in some incredible views—all on an easy, family-run boat with friendly crew. The value for money (at just $34 per person) is impressive considering the multiple stops, the included facilities like deck chairs and a slide, and the scenic highlights.

A possible consideration is the strict schedule and limited capacity on the upper deck, which is first come, first served. Arriving early helps secure a prime spot, especially if you want the best views or a sunbathing spot. That said, this tour is best suited for those who enjoy outdoor adventures, picturesque scenery, and a relaxed but well-organized day on the water. It’s perfect for families, solo travelers, or groups looking for a fun, affordable way to experience Malta’s marine beauty and island culture.

Key Points

• Excellent value with a full itinerary including swimming, sightseeing, and island exploration for just $34.
• Family-run charm and friendly crew make the experience welcoming and personal.
• Multiple stops at Blue Lagoon, Gozo, sea caves, and scenic viewpoints provide a well-rounded day.
• Early arrival is crucial to secure top deck seating and maximize enjoyment.
• Optional extras like speedboat rides and bus transfers make the day more flexible but come at additional costs.
• Authentic insights from reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides, gorgeous scenery, and fun activities like the 10m slide.

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A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour kicks off from Hornblower Cruises in St Paul’s Bay, conveniently located behind Loa Restaurant. Arriving 45 minutes to an hour early is advised — especially if you want a good seat on the upper deck or a deckchair in the sun, as these are limited and often snapped up quickly. The boat departs promptly at 10:00 AM, with no delays, so punctuality is key. If you’re relying on local buses, stops are within walking distance, and nearby free parking makes driving manageable. Taxis should confirm the exact address beforehand.

The Journey Begins: Malta Coastline and Caves

As the boat leaves the harbor, you’ll love the spectacular views of Malta’s northern coast. The cliffs, coves, and natural rock formations in this area are stunning, and the live commentary from Captain Kevin adds a layer of storytelling that makes the scenery even more engaging. Expect to hear about sites like the islands of St. Paul’s and the famous St. Paul’s Shipwreck statue from 60 A.D. — a detail that adds a bit of historical intrigue to your scenic cruise.

The Ahrax and Santa Maria caves are highlights early on, with Captain Kevin stopping as close as possible for fantastic photo ops. Reviewers like Anna and Ella praise the guides’ knowledge and helpfulness — Ella especially appreciated how helpful they were with her elderly grandma, making sure everyone felt comfortable and cared for during the day.

The Blue Lagoon: Paradise Found

The 1.5-hour stop at Blue Lagoon is often described as the trip’s star attraction. Its silky white sands and crystal-clear waters have earned it many glowing comments. Many travelers say it’s one of the most beautiful spots they’ve seen, with some noting it’s “impossible to resist a dip” in the refreshing waters. The lagoon’s shallow, calm waters are perfect for swimming and snorkeling, though some reviews, like Aurora’s, mention that timing might affect whether you get to swim in the lagoon or just enjoy the scenery.

Here, you can slide into the water from the 10-meter slide, jump off the boat, or walk onto the beach for a quick dip. The boat offers facilities like deck chairs (though limited) and shaded areas for relaxing. Several guests mention that arriving early is a good idea to secure a deck chair on the sun deck — “we arrived an hour early and got some of the last seats,” according to a reviewer.

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Comino and the Sea Caves

After Blue Lagoon, the cruise continues to explore Comino Island. Here, you have the option to stay on the boat or disembark and explore at your leisure. The self-guided tour allows you to take in scenic views, snap photos, or relax. The Santa Maria Bay and other points along the coast offer more beautiful vistas, with the captain providing commentary on notable formations.

The sea caves and the St. Mary’s Tower are also on the route, offering dramatic, Instagram-worthy shots. For those interested, the speedboat ride (for an extra €15 payable in cash) is highly recommended if you want to venture into caves or get closer to the cliffs and lagoons. Many reviewers enjoyed their time on the speedboat, describing it as “loads of fun” and well worth the extra fee.

Exploring Gozo

The highlight for many is the three-hour stop on Gozo, the second-largest Maltese island. You can explore independently or opt for the €5 transfer to Victoria, the capital city. Many reviewers mention the convenience of the bus transfer, which allows for flexible sightseeing and shopping.

Kevin’s crew recommends visiting the Victoria Citadel and the charming streets of the town. Reviewers like Asia and Aurora loved this part of the tour, noting that it’s a good balance of free time and guided insight. Some enjoyed walking around, while others appreciated local shops and tapas-style eateries. The Xlendi Bay stop gives a quick scenic view and short walk, perfect for stretching your legs and taking photos.

The Return Journey and Final Highlights

Back on the boat, the cruise continues along the southern channel of Comino, passing notable sites like Crystal Lagoon and St. Mary’s Tower. The captain’s commentary highlights the caves and rock formations along the way, enriching the visual experience with stories and facts.

As the boat approaches Malta, many reflect on what made the day special — the stunning scenery, the friendly crew, and the well-organized itinerary. The journey ends back at the starting point in St Paul’s Bay, with plenty of time to grab a meal or a drink nearby before heading back.

Why This Tour Works for Travelers

This cruise offers a combination of scenic beauty, cultural stops, and fun activities—all at an accessible price point. The live commentary from knowledgeable guides like Captain Kevin and Brahim adds educational value without feeling overwhelming. The photo stops and short walks on Gozitan land are perfect for making the most of your limited time, and the facilities onboard ensure comfort for a full day at sea.

If you’re someone who loves being outdoors, swimming in beautiful waters, and snapping pictures of caves and cliffs, this tour hits all those marks. It’s especially suitable for travelers who want a value-packed, hassle-free day with the flexibility to explore or relax as they prefer. The inclusion of optional extras like the speedboat ride and bus transfer lets you customize your experience without feeling pressured.

What Sets It Apart?

Many reviews highlight the warm, helpful attitude of the crew, making everyone feel valued and well taken care of. The guided commentary helps put the sights into context, enriching the visual experience. And with ample opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and photo snapping, it’s a well-rounded, memorable day.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is ideal for families, solo travelers, and couples looking for a mix of adventure and relaxation. It’s perfect if you enjoy outdoor water activities like swimming and sliding, but also want a taste of Maltese culture and stunning scenery.

It’s also well-suited for those who don’t want to navigate transport on their own, thanks to the included bus transfer options and straightforward itinerary. If your priority is value for money and a relaxed pace to enjoy Malta’s outdoor beauty, this cruise is a great pick.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the cruise suitable for children?
Yes, the cruise caters to families, and children can enjoy swimming, sliding, and sightseeing. The crew is helpful and attentive to all ages.

How early should I arrive?
Arriving at least an hour before departure (around 9:00 AM) is highly recommended to secure a good seat, especially on the upper deck where deck chairs are limited.

Are there optional extras I should consider?
Yes, you might find the speedboat ride in the Blue Lagoon and bus transfer on Gozo worth the added cost. These are paid in cash and can enhance your experience.

What should I bring for the day?
Bring a towel, sunscreen, beachwear, and some cash for extras. The boat doesn’t provide lockers, so keep valuables safe.

How long is the stop at Blue Lagoon?
The swim and relax time is 1.5 hours, giving you plenty of opportunity to dip, slide, and soak up the scenery.

Does the tour include food and drinks?
Food is available for purchase onboard, but it’s not included in the ticket price. The crew offers snacks and drinks at reasonable prices.

Final Thoughts

This Malta boat cruise packs a lot into a manageable, budget-friendly package. From the stunning Blue Lagoon to the charming streets of Gozo, it offers a great way to see some of Malta’s most beloved sights without the hassle of planning multiple transport options. The friendly, knowledgeable crew, combined with the picturesque scenery and activities like swimming and sliding, make it a memorable day out.

It’s especially suited for outdoor lovers and those wanting a relaxed, scenic day with plenty of opportunities for photos and fun. While arriving early helps, many reviewers say that the organization, value, and overall experience make it worth the effort.

If you’re after a well-organized, affordable, and scenic adventure around Malta, this cruise delivers. Just be prepared for the weather, bring your camera, and enjoy the beautiful waters and landscapes that make Malta special.

Happy sailing!

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