Malta: Comino, Gozo, Blue Lagoon, Crystal Lagoon and Caves Tour

Malta: Comino, Gozo, Blue Lagoon, Crystal Lagoon and Caves Tour – A Complete Guide

If you’re looking to experience Malta’s scenic coastlines, turquoise waters, and charming islands in one day, this boat tour offers an immersive way to do just that. Spanning around 7 hours, the tour takes you from Malta’s northern bays to the stunning caves and lagoons of Comino and Gozo, with plenty of opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and exploring.

What we love most about this experience is the chance to see some of Malta’s most iconic sights without the hassle of planning multiple trips. The Blue Lagoon’s crystal-clear waters and the rugged beauty of the caves are truly unforgettable. Plus, the cost — approximately $36 per person — makes it a budget-friendly way to pack a day full of adventure.

That said, one consideration is the potential crowds, especially at the Blue Lagoon. The tours tend to attract many visitors, and the boat itself isn’t the newest, which can mean a bustling atmosphere during peak times. Still, for those wanting a value-packed day with diverse activities and scenic views, this tour is an excellent choice. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a mix of relaxation, sightseeing, and fun in a single outing.

Key Points

• All-in-one island experience saves you time and money by combining Comino and Gozo in one day
• Blue Lagoon swimming and snorkeling are highlights, with facilities like a slide and shaded decks
• Flexible options to explore Gozo by foot or with an add-on bus tour (additional cost)
• Affordable price that includes most major sights and activities, making it good value
• Crowd management can be tricky at busy spots like Blue Lagoon, so early arrival helps
• Family-friendly and suitable for anyone comfortable with boat trips and group excursions

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Meeting Point and Departure

The adventure kicks off at Bugibba Jetty, a well-known spot on Malta’s north coast, with departure scheduled for 10 a.m. We recommend arriving early — the reviews suggest that securing good seats, especially on the upper sun deck, is worth the effort since the boat can fill up fast. The atmosphere tends to be lively, with a mix of families, groups, and solo travelers eager to start their Maltese maritime journey.

The Route and Highlights

The boat sets sail into the north coast’s scenic waters, passing St. Paul’s Islands and the impressive St. Paul’s statue, which immediately hint at Malta’s biblical ties. The cruise then takes you through the Ahrax and Santa Maria caves, where the crew often explains the geological features and local lore, adding some educational flavor to the trip.

The journey continues along the northern coastline, offering views of Ghadira Bay (also called Mellieha Beach) — Malta’s largest sandy stretch. It’s a great photo opportunity and gives a sense of the island’s varied coastline.

Comino and the Blue Lagoon

After about an hour of cruising, the highlight arrives: the Blue Lagoon. Arriving early ensures you beat the crowds that flock here later in the day. The lagoon’s crystal turquoise waters are renowned worldwide, and the reviewer comments confirm it: “the water at the Blue Lagoon is fantastic,” and the slide is a fun addition for all ages.

During your 1 hour and 30 minutes ashore, you’re free to swim, snorkel, sunbathe, or just relax on the boat’s top sunbathing deck — which does have limited deck chairs (first come, first served). The facilities are simple but sufficient: shaded and sunny seats, a cafeteria with decent prices, clean toilets, and lockers for your valuables. Be sure to download the free landing passes from the tour website beforehand, as this is required to disembark onto Comino.

One reviewer mentions that this spot is “very busy,” which is common for this popular destination. Arriving early is the best way to enjoy the lagoon without feeling overwhelmed.

Comino’s Sea Caves and Scenic Cruising

The boat then cruises past Comino’s sea caves, where savvy travelers can snap photos of the Elephant’s Head rock formation and the stunning Santa Maria cave. The crew often takes the opportunity to enter these caves, allowing passengers to see the natural formations up close from the boat.

Visiting Gozo

Next, the boat heads to Mgarr Harbour in Gozo, where a 3-hour stop awaits. You have a few options here: explore independently or take the optional bus tour (costs an extra €5), which offers a quick visit to Victoria — the island’s bustling capital — and a scenic viewpoint. Several reviews praise this flexible approach, noting that the organized shuttle is a worthwhile addition for ease and efficiency.

One reviewer states, “the shuttle to Victoria takes about 25 minutes, but sometimes it can take longer,” highlighting the importance of timing and patience. During your time in Gozo, you can wander the streets, enjoy local cafes, or just soak in the atmosphere of this quieter, more rural island.

Crystal Lagoon and the Return

As the boat leaves Gozo, it stops at Crystal Lagoon, favored by divers for its deeper waters and dramatic scenery. It’s accessible by a short walk from the Blue Lagoon, making it a tempting spot to snorkel or explore underwater life before heading back.

The return cruise takes you through the south channel of Comino, where you might catch glimpses of picturesque coves and rocky outcrops, adding to the array of photos and memories.

The tour wraps up around 5 p.m., with plenty of time to reflect on a day packed with scenery, swimming, and island hopping.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included in the price:
– Entry to Comino’s sea caves during the cruise
– Use of the water slide and limited deck chairs
– Life vests available upon request for swimming
– The cruise itself, which covers most of the scenic stops along the coast

Extras to consider:
– Blue Lagoon landing passes (must be downloaded in advance)
– Food and drinks on board are reasonably priced but not included
– Optional extras like a speedboat ride (€15), minibus transfer (€5), or mask and snorkel rental (€5 + €10 refundable deposit)

Review Insights

Many guests mention that the Blue Lagoon is the star of the day, with comments like “swimming and sliding into the water was fantastic,” and “the scenery is truly breathtaking.” The value for money shines through, especially considering how many sights are packed into one day.

However, some reviews note the crowd factor — arriving early helps mitigate this, but be prepared for busy spots. The boat’s older style means it isn’t the most modern vessel but still functional and equipped for a fun day at sea.

Practical Tips for a Great Experience

• Arrive early to secure a top deck seat and avoid the crowds at Blue Lagoon.
• Download the landing pass ahead of time to streamline your disembarkation.
• Bring your own towels as they’re not provided.
• Consider bringing snacks, as onboard prices are reasonable but not free.
• If you want to explore Gozo thoroughly, plan to use the shuttle or arrange transportation in advance.
• Be prepared for potential crowds and busy spots, especially in peak season.
• For those interested in underwater exploration, renting a mask and snorkel is affordable and adds to the fun.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for budget-conscious travelers wanting a full day of sightseeing without the hassle of independent planning. It suits families, couples, and solo adventurers eager to see Malta’s coastal beauty and islands with minimal fuss.

If you enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and exploring caves, you’ll love the Blue Lagoon and sea caves. However, if you’re seeking quiet, secluded spots, be prepared for the crowds and lively atmosphere, especially during high season.

Those interested in a flexible schedule — choosing to explore Gozo on their own or via the optional bus — will find this setup convenient. The tour’s affordable price combined with scenic highlights makes it an excellent value for a memorable day in Malta.

FAQs

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?
While the tour provides life vests, rentals for masks and snorkels are available onboard for €5, so bringing your own is optional but can be more comfortable.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews mention families enjoying the experience. Kids can have fun on the water slide and in the Blue Lagoon, but parents should supervise around the crowds.

How early should I arrive at the meeting point?
Arriving early is recommended to secure a good seat, especially on the upper sun deck, since the boat often fills up quickly.

Are food and drinks included?
No, they’re not included in the ticket price, but onboard prices are reasonable, and you’re welcome to bring your own snacks.

Can I stay longer at the Blue Lagoon?
No, the scheduled stop is 1 hour and 30 minutes. For more time, you might consider the optional tours or visiting other beaches separately.

Is the boat comfortable?
The vessel isn’t brand-new but has all necessary amenities, including shaded and sunny decks, toilets, lockers, and a cafeteria. Passengers generally find it perfectly adequate for a day at sea.

To sum it up, this Malta tour offers an engaging, well-rounded experience of some of the island’s most stunning natural sights. It balances sightseeing, swimming, and island exploring at a very reasonable price, making it suitable for most travelers eager to enjoy Malta’s coastal treasures. Be prepared for some crowds, but with early planning, you’ll leave with plenty of beautiful memories and great stories to tell.