Malta: Blue Lagoon, Gozo & Crystal Lagoon Sea Caves

Exploring Malta by boat offers an unbeatable way to see some of the most iconic natural and coastal sights. This guided tour, costing around $35 per person and lasting five hours, promises a balanced mix of relaxation, sightseeing, and adventure. With stops at the famous Blue Lagoon, a leisurely exploration of Gozo, and a scenic cruise past the stunning Crystal Lagoon, it’s an experience that captures the island’s diverse beauty.

One of the top draws of this tour is how it combines multiple highlights into a relatively short window, making it perfect for travelers who want a taste of Malta’s waters and landscapes without committing to an entire day or expensive private excursions. We particularly appreciate the comfortable amenities onboard, the ability to swim in crystal-clear waters, and the flexibility to explore on your own or join guided walks.

However, it’s worth considering that at just five hours, this tour packs in quite a lot—meaning some may find the pace a little brisk, especially during the busy summer months when the boat can get crowded. It’s best suited for those who love being on the water, want to see Gozitan sights efficiently, and are comfortable with a group setting.

This trip is ideal for travelers seeking value and authentic Maltese coastal experiences. If you enjoy scenic cruises, swimming, and exploring charming islands with a friendly crew, this tour should be on your Malta bucket list.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At $35, this tour offers great value, covering multiple highlight stops with included amenities.
• Diverse Experience: Combines swimming in the Blue Lagoon, exploring Gozo, and scenic cruising past sea caves.
• Relaxed Yet Active: Plenty of time to swim and walk around, balanced with comfortable onboard facilities.
• Expert Guidance: Led by an experienced captain, with optional guided or independent exploration of Gozitan landmarks.
• Convenient Itinerary: Well-organized stops include photo opportunities, sightseeing, and leisure time.
• Scenic Views: Offers stunning vistas of Malta’s cliffs, coves, and natural rock formations—perfect for photography.

The Starting Point: Marfa Jetty

The adventure begins at Marfa Jetty, located in front of the Riviera Hotel. From here, the boat departs on a journey that’s as much about the scenic views as the actual destinations. Reviewers mention that the crew is friendly and efficient, making the check-in process smooth even during busy times. The boat itself is equipped with a spacious deck, shaded areas, and a sunbathing deck, ensuring comfort whether you prefer to relax in the shade or soak up the sun.

The Scenic Cruise and First Highlights

As the vessel pulls away from the jetty, you’ll immediately notice the impressive coastline of Malta. The crew offers commentary on notable landmarks such as Santa Maria Battery, Elephant Rock, St. Marija Bay, and the St. Marija Caves—giving you context on why these features are significant. Expect about 15 minutes of sightseeing cruise time on the way to Comino, which is perfect for snapping photos and absorbing the views.

Travelers often comment on how the boat’s open design allows for great visibility, and that the crew’s insights add a layer of understanding to the scenery. During this part, you’ll also glimpse the dramatic cliffs and vibrant marine life that make Malta’s coast so appealing.

The Blue Lagoon: A Crystal-Clear Water Paradise

The Blue Lagoon on Comino Island is undoubtedly the star attraction. The vessel anchors here for around 1.5 hours, giving plenty of time to swim, relax, and enjoy the stunning scenery. Reviewers mention that the water in the Blue Lagoon is remarkably clear, with some describing it as “like swimming in a giant swimming pool,” thanks to the shallow sandy areas and vibrant blue hues.

For those who want a bit more adventure, an optional powerboat trip to nearby sea caves is available at an extra charge. This is highly recommended because the caves are a sight to behold, with impressive rock formations and hidden grottos. Many guests mention that the caves are a highlight, and some regret not booking the extra tour.

While at the Blue Lagoon, you’ll also appreciate the onboard amenities. A cash bar offers beverages to refresh you after a swim, and loungers and shaded areas mean you can relax between dips. Some travelers highlight that the boat’s ample space prevents feeling overcrowded, even during peak season.

Exploring the Charm of Gozitan Countryside

After leaving Comino, the tour continues to Gozo, where a two-and-a-half-hour stop awaits. This is a perfect opportunity to explore independently, whether you want to stroll through villages, visit cultural landmarks, or relax at a local café. Tour organizers mention the availability of optional transport or guided tours at the port, so you can tailor your visit.

According to reviews, the Gozitan scenery is particularly picturesque, with lush countryside and traditional Maltese houses. Some visitors recommend booking a guided tour for a deeper dive into the island’s history, while others enjoy simply wandering at their own pace. The flexibility here is a definite bonus.

A Scenic Cruise Past the Crystal Lagoon

On the way back to Malta, the boat cruises past the Crystal Lagoon, giving passengers a chance to admire its striking cliffs and vivid blue waters from a different perspective. Many appreciate this scenic cruise for the chance to take photos of the rugged coastline and vibrant marine environment. The crew often points out notable formations and marine life, adding an educational touch to the ride.

The Final Legs: Malta’s Southern Coast and Back to Marfa Jetty

The cruise concludes by passing along Gozitan landmarks like Fort Chambray and Mgarr Harbour. Returning to the starting point at Marfa Jetty, you’re left with a sense of having experienced a well-rounded slice of Malta’s coastal beauty.

Comfort and Amenities Onboard

The vessel’s amenities contribute significantly to a pleasant experience. The spacious deck allows plenty of room to move around, while shaded areas keep you cool. Loungers are perfect for sunbathing, and clean restrooms are a thoughtful touch. A cash bar with drinks means you can unwind with a cold beverage as you soak up the views.

Practicalities and Tips

• Timing: The tour lasts five hours, with departure times varying based on availability. Check in advance to choose a slot that fits your schedule.
• What to Bring: Swimwear, towel, camera, snacks, sunscreen, and water are recommended. Remember, you can purchase drinks on board if needed.
• Booking and Cancellation: You can reserve your spot with the flexibility to pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
• Landings: If you wish to explore Comino on foot, you can pre-book a permit online via the provided link. Uncertain about exploring alone? The guided walk may be a better option.
• Group Size: The tour generally caters to small to medium groups, ensuring a more intimate experience, but always check if you prefer private options.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for water lovers, photographers, and those who enjoy scenic boat rides. It’s particularly appealing for travelers who want to see multiple highlights without the hassle of organizing separate excursions. If you dislike long boat rides or are prone to seasickness, you might want to prepare accordingly or consider alternative activities.

For the price of around $35, this tour offers a fantastic snapshot of Malta’s coastal splendor. The combination of swimming in the Blue Lagoon, exploring Gozitan countryside, and cruising past sea caves is both engaging and relaxing. The onboard amenities and flexible options make it accessible and comfortable, especially for those who want to make the most of their limited time.

If you’re looking for a well-organized, value-packed trip that balances sightseeing with leisure, this tour ticks all those boxes. It’s especially great for first-time visitors or those on a budget who still want an authentic Maltese experience on the water.

Who Should Book This Tour?

Travelers eager to experience Malta’s natural beauty from the sea, those who enjoy a mix of guided and independent exploration, and anyone seeking a family-friendly, relaxed outing will find this trip appealing. It’s ideal if you want to see iconic sights, enjoy a swim in crystal-clear waters, and take in stunning coastal scenery—all in one manageable, well-priced package.

Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers?
This tour is not recommended for non-swimmers since swimming in the Blue Lagoon is a key part of the experience. If swimming is a concern, you might prefer to stay onboard and enjoy the scenery from the ship.

How long do we spend at each stop?
You’ll spend about 1.5 hours at the Blue Lagoon, 2.5 hours exploring Gozo, and various cruise segments in between. The cruise past Crystal Lagoon and other landmarks are short sightseeing segments.

Can I explore Comino on foot?
Yes, a landing permit can be pre-booked for independent exploration on Comino, but many may prefer to relax on the boat or join guided walks in Gozo.

Are drinks included onboard?
No, drinks are not included in the price, but a cash bar offers a variety of beverages, including soft drinks, alcohol, and water.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, camera, snacks, and water for your comfort. You might also want to bring a hat or sunglasses for sun protection.

How is the weather likely to affect the tour?
Since the tour is outdoors and involves boat travel, weather conditions like strong winds or rain could affect the experience. Always check the forecast and dress appropriately.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, families with children who enjoy boat rides and swimming should find it enjoyable, but parents should note the duration and consider sea-sickness or safety concerns.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is possible up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for your travel plans.

This guided boat tour around Malta is a delightful way to see the island’s best coastal sights, enjoy some swimming, and relax onboard. It offers excellent value, memorable scenery, and a flexible experience suited for most travelers eager to explore Malta from the water.