From Melliea Bay: Gozo & Blue Lagoon Boat Tour w/ Swim Stop

Exploring Malta’s Islands by Boat: A Practical Review of the Mellieha Bay: Gozo & Blue Lagoon Tour

Getting an authentic taste of Malta often means venturing beyond the mainland, and what better way than by boat? The From Mellieha Bay: Gozo & Blue Lagoon Boat Tour offers a well-rounded day of island-hopping, sightseeing, and swimming, all packed into approximately six and a half hours. Starting from Mellieha Bay, this tour takes you through Malta’s archipelago with highlights like the historic citadel of Gozo, the famous Blue Lagoon, and various caves and scenic spots only accessible by sea.

One thing we really appreciate about this experience is the way it balances diverse attractions—cultural sights, natural beauty, and leisure—all in a single day. The inclusion of a guided bus tour of Gozo (available as an optional extra) is a bonus for those who want to explore more deeply, making it a flexible option whether you’re a laid-back sunbather or a history buff.

A small caveat is that the tour’s timing is quite packed, which means some might find it a bit rushed, especially if they want to linger longer at certain stops. Also, since food and drinks are only available on board at extra cost, those with specific dietary needs or seeking a full meal might want to plan ahead.

This tour suits travelers who love a mix of sightseeing and relaxing in the sun, especially those keen to cover multiple islands in one go without the hassle of arranging multiple trips. Families, solo travelers, and groups looking for good value—and authentic experiences—will find this trip particularly appealing.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Island-Hopping: Visit Malta, Gozo, and Comino in one smooth cruise.
• Highlight Stops: Walk through Gozo’s old citadel and cruise caves only accessible by sea.
• Swim & Relax: Enjoy a 1.5-hour swim stop at the Blue Lagoon for snorkeling and sunbathing.
• Guided Optional Tour: Explore Gozo’s highlights on an exclusive bus tour (additional cost).
• Good Value: At $28, the tour offers a lot for the price, including sightseeing, swimming, and photo stops.
• Authentic Experiences: Friendly guides and carefully curated stops mean a genuine Maltese adventure.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting from Mellieha Bay at 09:30, the cruise kicks off with a scenic departure, giving travelers their first glimpses of Malta’s rugged coastline and iconic sea caves. The boat tour is operated by Oh Yeah Malta Cruises and Water Sports, known for their friendly atmosphere and attentive guides. From the deck, you’ll see the smugglers caves, a favorite photo spot that hints at Malta’s pirate-era secrets, and the Elephant Head Rock on Comino, an instantly recognizable natural formation.

The boat then visits the Santa Maria Caves, where the rocky cliffs and sea stacks provide dramatic scenery perfect for photos. The first major stop is Gozo, which travelers can explore freely or opt for a guided bus tour lasting about 2 hours and 45 minutes. This optional service is private to the tour’s clients, allowing for a more personalized experience. The highlights here include Victoria City and the Citadel, as well as sites like Fungus Rock and Ta Pinu Cathedral, which even Pope John Paul II once visited.

For those choosing to explore independently, walking through Gozo offers a chance to soak up its laid-back vibe and scenic views at your own pace. The guided tour adds value by showcasing the island’s most famous landmarks, making sure you don’t miss the highlights if time is tight.

Next, the boat cruises around Comino, known for its stunning caves and rugged coastline. Here, the ** Elephant Rock** and sea caves are main photo stops, with the chance to see seabirds and perhaps even dolphins if you’re lucky, as some reviews mention the boat stopping to watch dolphins in the distance.

The Blue Lagoon is undoubtedly the star attraction—a perfect spot for swimming, snorkeling, or simply relaxing in the sun. The 1.5-hour swim stop allows ample time to cool off in the crystal-clear waters, with many travelers praising the Blue Lagoon as a highlight of the trip. Reviewers like Álmos recommend this as the best part, noting that swimming directly from the boat is less crowded and more enjoyable than from the main beaches.

After your swim, the boat heads back towards Malta, passing by scenic spots like the Crystal Lagoon, Poppy’s Caves, and Lovers’ Caves—each offering perfect photo opportunities. The journey back also includes passing Santa Maria Tower and the WW2 Santa Maria Battery, which add a touch of historical interest.

The tour concludes back at Mellieha Bay around 16:00, giving you a full day of exploration, relaxation, and memorable scenery packed into just over six hours.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

One aspect that reviewers consistently praise is the knowledgeable guides who make the journey more enriching. They’re often seen as friendly, helpful, and eager to share interesting tidbits about the caves, islands, and history—adding context that elevates what might otherwise be just a sightseeing cruise.

The small group atmosphere—with exclusive access to the bus tour on Gozo—adds a layer of intimacy and personalized attention. Travelers frequently mention how this makes the experience feel tailored and comfortable, especially compared to larger, more generic tours.

Value for money is another recurring theme. At $28 per person, this tour includes several highlights—scenic views, cave visits, a full island stop, and swimming in the Blue Lagoon. When you consider that food and drinks are available for purchase on board, it’s a complete day out that doesn’t break the bank.

However, some guests mention that the schedule can be a bit tight, especially if you’re someone who prefers to linger longer at certain stops. Also, the optional bus tour, while informative, costs extra, so budget accordingly if this is of interest.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Bring cash: Some parts of the tour, such as the optional bus tour or snorkeling equipment, require small additional charges.
• Dress comfortably: Pack swimwear, towel, sun protection (sunscreen, hat, sunglasses), and comfortable shoes for walking on Gozo.
• Arrive early: The meeting point at Mellieha Bay is easy to find near Starbucks and the seafront.
• Prepare for a full day: The schedule is packed, so plan your day accordingly, and bring a water bottle to stay hydrated.
• Respect the environment: Avoid glass objects, fireworks, or any explosive substances, especially when near caves and natural sites.

The Sum Up

This boat tour from Mellieha Bay offers a cost-effective way to see Malta’s stunning islands, famed caves, and crystalline waters in one go. It’s well-suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and cultural stops without the hassle of multiple bookings. The optional guided bus tour of Gozo adds extra value if you want to explore the island’s history and landmarks, making this a versatile choice.

The experience’s strength lies in its friendly guides, varied stops, and the opportunity to relax at the Blue Lagoon, often described as the highlight of the trip. While the schedule is tight, most travelers find it enhances the feeling of a full, adventure-filled day—and the reviews back this up.

Ultimately, if you’re after a balanced, authentic, and budget-conscious way to explore Malta’s islands and natural wonders, this tour ticks all the boxes. Perfect for those who want to see the highlights comfortably and at a good price, it makes a memorable addition to any Malta itinerary.

FAQ

• What time does the tour start?
  The tour departs from Mellieha Bay around 09:30, but check availability for exact starting times.

• **How long is the boat cruise?****
  The entire experience lasts about 6.5 hours, including stops and sightseeing.

• Is there an option to explore Gozo independently?
  Yes, you can enjoy free time on Gozo or opt for the optional guided bus tour at a small extra charge.

• What’s included in the price?
  The ticket covers the 3-island boat cruise, stops for photos and sightseeing at caves, the Gozon stop, and the Blue Lagoon swim.

• **Are food and drinks included?****
  No, but snacks and drinks are available for purchase on board.

• **Can I swim at the Blue Lagoon?****
  Yes, you have 1 hour 30 minutes for swimming and snorkeling in the Blue Lagoon’s clear waters.

• Is the tour suitable for children or families?
  Generally yes, but note that it might be a long day for very young children, and mobility-impaired travelers should consider accessibility.

• Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?
  Snorkeling equipment is available for a small charge, but bringing your own ensures the best fit and comfort.

• **Is the tour wheelchair accessible?****
  The activity is not suitable for people with mobility impairments.

• Do I need cash on the day?
  Yes, bring some cash for optional extras, snacks, or souvenirs, as card terminals may not always be available.

In summary, this Malta boat tour offers a fantastic blend of natural beauty, local culture, and leisure, all at a very reasonable price point. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, it’s a well-curated experience that delivers on expectations.