From Sliema/Bugibba: Best of Gozo & Comino Catamaran Tour VT

Travelers often find themselves torn between the allure of Malta’s vibrant coastline and the tranquil beauty of its smaller islands. This 7-hour catamaran tour offers a balanced escape, whisking you away from the busy Maltese shores to explore the iconic Blue Lagoon in Comino and the historic Citadel in Gozo. While the itinerary is packed with scenic cruising and land visits, it’s especially appealing for those craving a combination of sea views, cultural sights, and some well-deserved relaxation.

What we particularly love about this experience is the state-of-the-art, eco-friendly catamaran — a smooth, comfortable vessel that allows flexibility for indoor and outdoor seating, plus WiFi and onboard restrooms. However, a consideration worth noting is that the tour is unguided, meaning you’ll be exploring independently at each stop. This suits travelers who enjoy some autonomy and leisurely pace rather than guided tours. It’s ideal for those who want a half-day adventure with plenty of photo opportunities and time on the water.

This tour tends to attract travelers looking for value: a well-priced way to see two islands without the hassle of multiple bookings or transfers. It’s perfect for independent explorers, couples, families, or groups who enjoy scenic cruises, some light sightseeing, and a relaxed day out by the sea. Now, let’s get into the details so you can decide if it’s the right fit.

Key Points

• Comfort and Flexibility: Modern catamaran with indoor and outdoor seating, WiFi, and restrooms.
• Beautiful Scenery: Stunning views of Malta’s coast, turquoise waters of Blue Lagoon, and Gozitan landscapes.
• Independent Exploration: Unguided visits to Citadel and Blue Lagoon offer freedom to explore at your own pace.
• Transport Convenience: Chauffeur-driven, air-conditioned transfers in Gozo ensure smooth transitions.
• Pre-Booking Essential: Blue Lagoon Access must be reserved in advance for the afternoon slot.
• Suitable for Autonomy Seekers: Tour designed for those who prefer exploring independently over guided commentary.

Discovering the Experience: A Deep Dive

The Journey Begins: Sliema or Bugibba to Gozo

Starting from Sliema or Bugibba, you’ll board a state-of-the-art 33-meter eco-friendly catamaran. The vessel’s design prioritizes comfort, with options for outdoor sunbathing or indoor air-conditioned seating. Many reviews highlight the seamless boarding process, with WiFi and onboard facilities making the 40-minute cruise pleasant and relaxing.

Travelers often mention the spectacular views along Malta’s north-east coast, with some noting the sensation of gliding smoothly over the clear waters, feeling almost like being on a floating hotel. The cruise’s eco-friendly nature also appeals to environmentally conscious travelers, who appreciate the effort to reduce impact while enjoying the scenery.

Stop 1: Gozo’s Citadel in Victoria

Once in Mgarr Harbour, you’ll hop into a chauffeur-driven, air-conditioned vehicle for a 20-minute drive to Victoria’s Citadel, the historic fortress city that has guarded Gozo for centuries. This unguided visit typically lasts about 1.5 hours, giving you ample time to wander the narrow streets, admire medieval architecture, and soak in panoramic views from the citadel walls.

Reviewers mention the peaceful atmosphere of Victoria and the impressive architecture, which many agree provides a tangible sense of Gozo’s layered history. Some reviewers, like Silviya, appreciated the free time in Gozo, noting that it allowed her to explore at her own pace. The transfer service from the harbor is described as smooth and comfortable, making the journey stress-free.

The Sea Cruise from Gozo to Comino

After exploring Victoria, you’ll return to Mgarr Harbour for a 20-minute cruise to Comino, renowned for its Blue Lagoon. The boat ride offers fantastic views of both islands’ rugged coastlines and is often described as relaxing, with many guests marveling at the crystal-clear waters that invite swimming and sunbathing.

Blue Lagoon in Comino

The Blue Lagoon is the highlight for many travelers — a turquoise paradise with shallow, warm waters perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or just soaking up the sun. To access the lagoon, you need to reserve the Blue Lagoon Access ahead of time via the Malta Tourism Authority’s website. This step helps protect the environment and manage overcrowding, which many visitors appreciate.

In reviews, guests talk about their free time in the lagoon, which typically lasts around 1 hour and 45 minutes. While some wish for longer, most enjoy the opportunity to explore the underwater scenery or just relax on the sand with a drink in hand.

Returning to Malta

After your leisure time, the tour continues with a 50-minute cruise back to Sliema or Bugibba. Many travelers note the peaceful return journey, often sharing photos of the setting sun over the sea. The tour concludes with organized transportation back to your hotel, making everything straightforward.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour offers incredible value considering the full experience:

• Included: Catamaran cruise, unguided land transfers, free time at Citadel and Blue Lagoon, WiFi, restrooms, and hotel transfers.
• Not included: Food and drinks (available for purchase on board and on land), Blue Lagoon Access (must be reserved), and optional Cave Boat Trips in Comino (tickets available separately).

It’s worth noting that food options are available on board and at the stops, allowing you to indulge without feeling rushed. The unguided nature means you can explore without a rush, but some might prefer guided commentary — a detail to consider based on your travel style.

The Experience Through the Eyes of Reviewers

Multiple reviews praise the stunning views and the well-organized logistics. Silviya particularly appreciated the comfortable boat and the free time at Blue Lagoon, describing her experience as “relaxing and perfect for swimming.” She also highlighted the peaceful atmosphere of Victoria’s Citadel, which she explored at her own pace.

Another reviewer emphasized the great value, noting that the price included the transfers, cruise, and free time, making it a convenient and affordable way to see both islands. Some mentioned that the tour is unguided, but for independent travelers, this was seen as a plus, offering flexibility to wander and relax.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Reserve Blue Lagoon Access early to avoid missing out — it’s a mandatory step and cannot be skipped.
• Bring comfortable shoes for the Citadel and any exploring on land.
• Pack beachwear, towels, and sun protection for your time in the Blue Lagoon.
• Check the weather forecast — outdoor seating on the boat is wonderful, but if rain or wind is forecast, indoor seats are available.
• Aim to arrive early at the meeting point to ensure smooth boarding and a relaxed start.
• If you’re a photography enthusiast, the cruise offers plenty of photo opportunities, especially of the coast and crystal waters.

This experience is ideal for independent travelers and those seeking a balance between sightseeing and leisure. The combination of scenic sea cruises and free exploration of Victoria and Blue Lagoon appeals to sea lovers, cultural explorers, and relaxed vacationers alike. It’s perfect if you want a full-day adventure without the crowds or guided tours, but still want the convenience of organized transport and logistics.

If you’re looking for guided commentary or a very structured tour, this might not be the best fit. However, if your priority is beautiful scenery, flexible exploration, and a relaxed pace, then this tour offers solid value.

The Sum Up

This Best of Gozo & Comino Catamaran Tour from Malta combines spectacular views, independent exploration, and comfortable transportation to give you a well-rounded day on the islands. The modern catamaran ensures a smooth ride with options for indoor comfort and WiFi, making the journey as enjoyable as the destinations themselves.

The free time at Victoria’s Citadel and the Blue Lagoon offers the perfect blend of history and relaxation, especially with the pre-reserved access to protect the environment and manage crowds. The unguided nature means you can explore at your own pace, making this tour a great option for those who prefer flexibility over rigid schedules.

Overall, it’s a fantastic choice for travelers who want a straightforward, scenic, and relaxing way to experience Malta’s smaller islands without the hassle of multiple bookings or guided tours. Whether you’re a solo adventurer, a couple, or a family, this trip provides a memorable taste of the Maltese archipelago’s best features.

FAQ

Do I need to reserve Blue Lagoon Access before booking?
Yes, Blue Lagoon Access must be reserved in advance through the Malta Tourism Authority’s website for the afternoon slot. You’ll receive a QR code that you need to present on the day.

Is this tour guided?
No, this tour is unguided. You’ll explore Victoria’s Citadel and Blue Lagoon independently, at your own pace.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, beachwear, towels, sun protection, and a waterproof camera are recommended. Also, bring your Blue Lagoon QR code for access.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but they are available for purchase on board and at the stops.

How long is the free time at Blue Lagoon?
You will have approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes at Blue Lagoon for swimming, relaxing, or exploring.

Can I choose indoor or outdoor seating on the boat?
Yes, the catamaran offers both options, so you can sit outside for the views or indoors in air-conditioned comfort.

What if it rains or the weather is bad?
The boat has indoor seating, which provides shelter. Be sure to check the weather forecast and dress accordingly.

This detailed, honest review aims to help you decide if this Gozo and Comino cruise matches your travel style. With its combination of scenic cruise, flexible exploring, and iconic sights, it promises a memorable day on Malta’s stunning islands.