From Bugibba: Gozo, Comino and Blue Lagoon One-day (CMO)

Experience the Beauty of Malta’s Sister Islands: A Detailed Review of the Gozo, Comino, and Blue Lagoon Day Tour

If you’re looking to get a taste of Malta’s stunning coastlines, charming villages, and crystal-clear waters—all in one day—this Gozo, Comino, and Blue Lagoon cruise might just be your best bet. Offered from Bugibba, this roughly 7-hour experience combines sightseeing, relaxation, and a splash of adventure, making it a popular choice for travelers wanting to see Malta’s less explored but equally breathtaking islands.

One aspect we particularly like is the flexible schedule and the opportunity for free time in Gozo, allowing you to explore at your own pace. The chance to swim in the Blue Lagoon’s famously clear waters is another highlight—and quite frankly, a must-do for anyone who loves a good splash. However, a possible drawback is that the limited time at each stop can sometimes leave visitors feeling rushed, especially if they want to soak in every detail or visit more hidden corners.

This tour suits travelers who want a well-rounded day trip that balances sightseeing with leisure. It’s ideal for those with a moderate budget, eager to see Malta’s highlights without overloading their schedule. If you’re a fan of scenic boat rides and gorgeous water views, this one’s worth considering—just set your expectations for a busy but rewarding day.

Key Points

• Beautiful coastal views along Malta’s north coast enhance the scenic cruise experience.
• Free time in Gozo gives you a chance to explore or relax on your own, adding flexibility.
• Blue Lagoon’s crystal-clear waters provide a perfect spot for swimming and unwinding.
• Booking requirements for Comino are strict due to new regulations, so plan ahead.
• Limited time at stops might make it hard to see everything in depth, but the highlights are well covered.
• The overall value for money is decent, especially considering the included cruise and swimming.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What You Can Expect

Starting from Bugibba Jetty, you’ll board a vessel that takes you along Malta’s scenic northern coastline. The cruise itself is the first highlight—expect stunning views of Malta’s rugged shoreline, with plenty of photo opportunities. The boat is generally comfortable, and the journey offers a relaxing way to see the coast from a different perspective.

Within about five hours, you’ll arrive at Gozo, Malta’s quieter, more rustic sister island. The visit here is mainly free time, so you can choose to explore at your own pace. Some travelers mentioned that the limited time can make the visit feel rushed—one reviewer noted they could “barely see the cathedral” despite visiting. So, if you’re keen on cultural sights, it’s worth prioritizing a quick walk through the main town or a visit to a notable site.

Afterward, the boat heads to Comino, famous for its unspoiled natural beauty and the Blue Lagoon. This part of the trip is perfect for swimming and relaxing on the sandy shores. Reviewers have remarked on the beautiful sea, though some also noted that crowds can be quite intense, especially on sunny days. You’ll have around two hours here, which generally means enough time to swim, sunbathe, or snap photos of the lagoon’s striking waters.

Returning to Bugibba Jetty concludes the day. The route is designed to maximize your time in each location while ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience. The boat schedule is flexible, allowing some leeway but also requiring adherence to the set timings and regulations, especially with the upcoming Comino access rules.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

One of the engaging aspects is the scenic cruise itself. Traveling along Malta’s coast offers sweeping vistas, sea caves, and marine life that many visitors might miss on land-based tours. This coastal perspective adds a layer of appreciation for Malta’s natural beauty.

The free time in Gozo is another major plus. Unlike some tours that stick rigidly to a schedule, this allows you to wander the streets, grab a coffee, or visit a quick landmark without feeling hurried. That said, some reviews pointed out that the short window limits how much you can truly explore. If you’re after in-depth sightseeing, you might find this part lacking, but for a quick taste, it works well.

In terms of swimming and relaxation, the Blue Lagoon is the clear favorite. Its crystal-clear waters are consistently praised, and the sandy shores make for a comfortable spot to unwind. Just be prepared for the crowds, especially in peak season, which can sometimes limit your comfort or space to relax.

Understanding the Value and Practicalities

At $43 per person, this tour offers a competitive price considering the inclusions of a boat cruise, free time, and swimming. The cost-effectiveness hinges on the experience of being on the water, enjoying scenic views, and having some leisure time on Gozo. However, it’s important to note that the limited time at each stop might not suit travelers wanting a deep dive into the islands’ culture or history.

The booking process requires attention—post-May 2025, visitors must secure a Comino access ticket through a separate website due to new regulations. This adds a layer of planning, especially if you’re visiting during peak times. The strict rules about weapons, alcohol, and explosive substances are standard, but it’s good to be aware, especially if you plan to carry personal items.

Group sizes tend to be moderate, making for a more personalized experience without large crowds on the boat. The tour is conducted in multiple languages, which adds convenience for international travelers.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

One reviewer from Italy shared that their day started off on a “wrong foot” due to late arrival, and they felt the limited time made it difficult to see the cathedral properly in Gozo. This highlights the importance of punctuality and managing expectations for such quick visits.

Another mentioned the stunning sea views in Comino but also noted that crowds on the steps leading to the cliffs could be a challenge. It’s a reminder that some of the most beautiful spots get busy, and patience might be necessary.

The ride and views are the main attractions, and many recognized the value of a stress-free, scenic day that combines different island experiences into one trip.

Who Would Love This Experience?

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a snapshot of Malta’s natural beauty without committing to multiple days or expensive excursions. If you enjoy boat rides, scenic water views, and a bit of swimming, this trip hits all those marks. It also suits those looking for a flexible schedule with some free exploration time.

However, if you’re after in-depth cultural or historical tours, or if you prefer spending more than a couple of hours on each island, you might find this experience somewhat limited. Also, if avoiding crowds is a priority, be prepared for busy spots, especially at the Blue Lagoon.

Final Thoughts

This one-day cruise to Gozo, Comino, and the Blue Lagoon manages to blend sightseeing, relaxation, and adventure into a manageable package. Its value lies in the scenic coastal views and the chance to swim in some of Malta’s most famous waters. While the limited time at each stop might not satisfy every explorer’s curiosity, it offers a quick, stress-free way to tick off multiple highlights in just one day.

We’d recommend this tour to travelers who prioritize beautiful scenery, swimming, and a relaxed boat ride over in-depth island exploring. It’s especially suitable for those on a budget or with limited time, eager to experience Malta’s stunning coastlines without overcommitting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is there a specific meeting point?
Yes, the tour departs from Bugibba Jetty.

How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, including cruising, free time, and swimming.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers the cruise, swimming, sightseeing, and the flexible vessel schedule.

Are there any restrictions on what I can bring?
Yes, weapons, sharp objects, alcohol, drugs, and explosive substances are not allowed onboard.

Do I need to book a Comino access ticket separately?
Yes, due to new regulations from May 2025, all visitors need to secure a Comino access ticket through the designated website.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While suitable for most ages, keep in mind the cruise duration and swimming time, which may be more enjoyable for older children and adults.

Will I have enough time to see Gozo?
You’ll get free time to explore, but the limited duration means you may only see the main highlights briefly.

Is the boat comfortable?
Most reviews mention the vessel as comfortable, though specifics like size vary; it is generally suited for relaxed cruising.

What should I bring?
Swimwear, sun protection, water, and perhaps a light snack. Remember, no alcohol or sharp objects are allowed onboard.

This comprehensive day trip offers a balanced mix of scenic cruising, island exploration, and water fun. With planning and realistic expectations, it’s a rewarding way to experience some of Malta’s most photogenic spots in just one day.