Gozo, Comino and Blue lagoon Cruise

This popular full-day boat tour offers a chance to see Malta’s nearby islands—Gozo and Comino—in one exciting trip. With around 7.5 hours of cruising, sightseeing, and swimming, it’s ideal for travelers short on time but eager to experience some of Malta’s most iconic sights. The tour combines scenic water views, land transport, and opportunities to chill in the famous Blue Lagoon, providing a balanced mix of activities and relaxation.

What makes this trip stand out? First, the water-based exploration allows you to enjoy Malta’s coastline from a different perspective, with plenty of photo-worthy moments. Second, the guided bus tour of Gozo offers insight into the island’s highlights, including Xlendi Bay and Victoria’s Citadel. Lastly, the chance to swim and snorkel in the Blue Lagoon’s turquoise waters is a true highlight—just bring your towel and sunblock.

However, a small consideration: some reviews mention that the land stops, especially in Victoria, can feel rushed or lacking detailed guidance, which might leave some travelers wishing for more local storytelling. Also, this tour is best suited for those who enjoy boat trips, scenic views, and a relaxed pace rather than a fully guided island excursion. If you’re seeking an affordable, well-organized way to hit the must-see spots, this cruise will likely suit you well.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience: Combines boat cruise, island stops, and beach time in one day.
• Great value for money: For around $46, you get scenic cruising, transport, and time at key sites.
• Beautiful scenery: Expect stunning water views of Malta’s coast, and the picturesque Blue Lagoon.
• Flexible beach stop: Swim, snorkel, or relax in the Blue Lagoon—equipment is available to rent.
• Limited on-land guided experience: The land transport isn’t guided, so travelers should be prepared for some independence.
• Ideal for short stays: Perfect for visitors with limited time looking for a snapshot of Malta’s islands.

What to Expect on the Tour

Our review is based on a well-organized, customer-valued experience that balances scenic cruising with brief land stops. It’s important to note that the tour begins in Sliema—a lively tourist hub—and the check-in is recommended 30 minutes prior to departure. From there, you’ll board a comfortable vessel equipped with toilets, a sundeck, swimming ladders, and a waterslide, making it clear that fun and comfort are priorities.

The Cruise: From Malta’s Coast to the Islands

The journey starts with a scenic cruise along Malta’s northern coast. As you sail, you’ll pass notable sights like St Julian’s Bay, St George’s Bay, Mellieha, and Bugibba. The views are picturesque, with rocky shores and colorful harbors providing a lively backdrop. The onboard commentary, in English, offers interesting tidbits about the islands and their history, adding context to your visual experience.

Stop at Gozo: Land and Sightseeing

Once at Gozo’s main harbor, the bus transfer begins. The land tour isn’t a full guided exploration—more of a scenic drive with stops. The first stop is Xlendi Bay, a charming fishing village that’s perfect for photos and quick strolls. Reviewers love the short 20-minute stop here, enough for a quick look at the bay’s rugged shoreline.

Next, the highlight is Victoria’s Citadel, a historic hilltop fortress with panoramic views and a lively market. The one-hour stop here allows time to explore independently. According to reviews, many appreciated the freedom to wander, but some noted that the lack of guided commentary made it harder to fully understand the site’s significance unless you do a bit of homework beforehand.

The Blue Lagoon: Swimming and Relaxation

After about an hour on land, the boat moves to Comino for the Blue Lagoon, one of Malta’s most photographed spots. The water’s stunning clarity and inviting turquoise hue make it a favorite among visitors. The stay here is 90 minutes from April to October, giving ample time to swim, sunbathe, or snorkel. In winter months, the stay is shortened to 60 minutes, which some reviewers found a little tight for a relaxing break, but still enough to enjoy the scenery.

The lagoon’s calm waters make it perfect for swimming, and equipment like snorkels can be rented onboard. Several reviewers mention how clear and beautiful the water is—some even say it’s worth the trip just to relax in such a picture-perfect setting.

Additional Highlights and Facilities

Before heading back, the boat cruises past the Santa Marija Caves—a quick photo stop where the natural rock formations are quite striking. The vessel itself is praised for cleanliness and comfort, with facilities like a waterslide for kids and sunbathing decks for adults.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting from Sliema, the tour’s cruise takes you past St Julian’s Bay, St George’s Bay, Mellieha, and Bugibba—these brief exterior views set the scene for the islands’ coastal charm. The first stop at Xlendi Bay is quick but worthwhile, especially for photos and a taste of local fishing village life.

Afterward, the bus takes you into Gozo’s interior, culminating in Victoria, where the Citadel offers incredible views and photo ops. Reviewers note that one hour feels a bit rushed but is enough for a quick exploration or market browsing.

The Blue Lagoon stop is the tour’s star attraction. Photos don’t do justice to how mesmerizing the water looks. During the stay, you can take a dip, relax, or rent snorkeling gear. The caves nearby also provide a scenic backdrop for photos.

Back on the boat, the journey back to Sliema offers views of Malta’s coastline, and the onboard amenities keep everyone comfortable. The entire experience is designed to give a taste of Malta’s natural beauty and local culture without being overly packed or rushed.

Authentic Traveler Insights

Multiple reviews commend the professional, friendly staff and smooth organization. One reviewer highlights that “the entire day was very well coordinated,” which is a big plus for those who dislike logistical stress.

Some guests, like the reviewer who said, “It was a very professional and well organised trip with transfers and some guide elements included,” appreciated the well-paced schedule. Others mentioned the delicious local food and drinks available for purchase onboard, which added to the overall value.

A few travelers noted that unlike full guided tours, the land stops don’t include detailed explanations, so some might feel a little lost or wish for more information about each site. But overall, the balance between sightseeing and free time resonates well with many.

The reviews also highlight the great value for money at around $46 per person, especially considering all the sights seen, the transportation, and the amenities onboard. For many, it’s a “perfect day” that hits the highlights without requiring a full guided tour or expensive private charter.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of Your Trip

• Arrive early at the departure point in Sliema to avoid last-minute rushes.
• Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses—the deck gets sunny, and the boat can feel warm in the summer.
• Towels and water shoes are recommended if you plan to swim or snorkel in the Blue Lagoon.
• Prepare for some independence at the stops—no guided commentary inside Victoria or Xlendi, so do some research beforehand if you want to maximize your time.
• Book your Blue Lagoon ticket in advance if you want to ensure a spot ashore; entry is free but requires a reservation.
• Consider the weather: wind and waves can affect the trip, so check the forecast, especially outside the summer months.
• Bring cash or cards for onboard drinks or souvenirs at the stops.
• Wear comfortable clothing and bring a light jacket for the return cruise, especially in cooler months.
• Note the timing: the Blue Lagoon stop varies seasonally, so plan accordingly.

The Sum Up

This Gozo, Comino, and Blue Lagoon Cruise offers an excellent way to tick Malta’s must-see islands off your list without breaking the bank. It’s particularly suited for travelers looking for a balanced mix of scenic water views, quick land explorations, and free time to relax by the water. The onboard facilities, friendly staff, and well-organized schedule make for a comfortable experience, though some may find the land stops slightly rushed or lacking detailed guidance.

The highlight for many is the crystal-clear Blue Lagoon, which lives up to its reputation as a postcard-perfect spot for swimming and sunbathing. While not a comprehensive guided tour, the trip provides enough structure and stunning vistas to make it memorable.

If you value good value for money, beautiful scenery, and a relaxed pace, this cruise has lots to offer. Be prepared for some independence during the land stops and pack your essentials for a fun, sun-filled day. Whether you’re short on time or want a scenic overview of Malta’s islands, this trip will leave you with plenty of beautiful photos and happy memories.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the boat cruise from Sliema to Gozo and Comino is included. Plus, land transport in Gozo is part of the package, stopping at Xlendi Bay and Victoria.

How long is the Blue Lagoon stop?
The Blue Lagoon stop lasts 90 minutes from April to October and 60 minutes in the winter months. This gives enough time to swim, sunbathe, or explore.

Do I need to book tickets separately for Blue Lagoon?
Yes, you must book a free ticket in advance at blcomino.com if you want to go ashore at Blue Lagoon; the entry is free.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included but are available for purchase onboard at the bar.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Snorkeling equipment is available to rent for €5 per set, so you can bring your gear or rent it there.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, a towel, swimwear, and possibly a light jacket for the boat’s return trip.

Are the stops guided?
No, the land stops in Victoria and Xlendi are self-guided, giving you free time to explore independently.

What’s the best time of year for this tour?
The tour runs seasonally with longer stops at the Blue Lagoon from April to October, ideal for swimming. Winter months are cooler and shorter but still enjoyable.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s family-friendly with facilities like a waterslide and swimming ladders, but always check the weather and sea conditions, especially in winter.

This comprehensive cruise offers a well-rounded taste of Malta’s stunning islands, perfect for those wanting a scenic, affordable, and memorable day on the water.