Mellieha: Gozo, Comino, Sea Caves, and Blue Lagoon Cruise

Mellieha: Gozo, Comino, Sea Caves, and Blue Lagoon Cruise – An Authentic Maltese Sea Adventure

If you’re looking for a way to escape the crowds and see Malta from its most captivating water spots, this boat tour around Mellieha, Gozo, Comino, and the Blue Lagoon might just be your perfect day out. With a solid 4.5-star rating based on over 60 reviews, this cruise offers a blend of scenic beauty, relaxing swimming stops, and engaging local insights—all for under $35 per person.

What we really love about this experience is how it balances sightseeing with relaxation. The stops at Crystal Lagoon, Blue Lagoon, and Santa Maria Bay are thoughtfully chosen, offering a chance to swim in crystal-clear waters and enjoy the natural beauty of Malta’s coastline. One potential drawback? The tour lasts about 4 hours, so if you’re after a full-day adventure or detailed historical commentary, this might feel a bit brief. However, it’s ideal for travelers craving a light, fun, and scenic escape, especially if you appreciate small groups and genuine natural wonders.

This tour is perfect for those wanting a relaxed, scenic journey with opportunities to snorkel, take photos, or just soak up the sun without the hassle of organizing transport or equipment. It’s also well-suited for travelers who enjoy a friendly guide, on-board facilities, and a relatively intimate group—max 24 people.

Key Points

• Seamless combination of sightseeing and relaxation in one cruise
• Stops at unique locations only accessible by boat, such as sea caves and lagoons
• All-in-one experience with snorkeling gear available for rental and onboard amenities
• Affordable price point offering great value for the scenery and activities
• Small group size enhances comfort and interaction
• Ideal for travelers seeking peace away from crowded beaches

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Itinerary: What Makes Each Stop Special

This cruise packs in a handful of Malta’s most mesmerizing coastal sites into roughly four hours—enough time to relax, explore, and take some incredible photos, without feeling rushed.

First Stop: Crystal Lagoon
The journey begins with a visit to the caves of Crystal Lagoon, a highlight for many. As reviewed by travelers like Marina_B, the caves are a top highlight, surrounded by crystal-clear turquoise waters that are perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The guide, often praised for being friendly and knowledgeable, takes time to show guests the rock formations and natural caves that can be entered by swimming. Several reviewers, including Shirley_C, appreciated the chance to take beautiful pictures while their guides explained the area’s features, making it not just a swim but a chance to learn about Malta’s rugged coastline.

Blue Lagoon in Comino
No trip to Malta is complete without seeing the Blue Lagoon, and this tour delivers. The lagoon’s famous for its shimmering, shallow waters and white sandy beaches, making it perfect for a leisurely swim or snorkel among colorful fish. Reviewers like Brooke_J mention that despite the crowds (which are common here), the boat stop allows you to beat the rush by staying on the boat and exploring the lagoon at your own pace. The lagoon truly feels like a postcard scene, and many note that the photos don’t do it justice.

Santa Maria Bay & Caves
Next, the tour takes you to Santa Maria Bay, where you can either relax on the sandy beach or snorkel in the calm waters. The short visit here is perfect for sunbathing or a quick explore of the nearby caves, as many reviewers have highlighted. A quick stop at the Elephant Head Rock provides some fun photo opportunities, and guides are generally helpful in pointing out these natural sculptures that add a whimsical touch to the scenery.

What Sets This Tour Apart

One standout feature is the small group size—usually no more than 24 travelers—which creates a more intimate experience. Several reviews, including Nik_Y’s, mention that they appreciated not being part of a large crowd, allowing them to relax on the boat and enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed or crowded.

Another strong point is the onboard facilities—restrooms are available, which is a godsend when you’re spending hours on the water. The boat also provides stand-up paddleboards, giving a fun alternative to swimming and snorkeling, especially if you’re feeling adventurous. As Joyecastelyn mentions, the free paddleboard was a “big plus,” and the boat’s friendly captain took time to explain each stop, making everyone feel comfortable and informed.

How Does It Make You Feel?

From the reviews, it’s clear that most travelers find this cruise refreshingly relaxing. The opportunity to swim in pristine waters, snorkel among colorful fish, and take photos of stunning landscapes makes it an ideal break from Malta’s busier tourist spots. Despite some mentions of crowds at the Blue Lagoon, most found the experience to be worth every penny, thanks to the knowledgeable guides, scenic stops, and the chance to escape the heat.

Cost and Value

At approximately $34.69 per person, this tour offers exceptional value. For that price, you get a guided cruise to some of Malta’s most photogenic sites, with equipment included (although snorkeling gear is available for rent at a small fee). The reviews consistently praise the quality of the experience for the price, especially considering the beautiful scenery and the amenities onboard.

Practical Details: What to Expect

The tour departs from Mellieha, at a meeting point easily accessible by public transportation, and lasts about 4 hours. It’s perfect for those who want a short, scenic escape rather than a full-day commitment. The group size ensures a relaxed vibe, and the guides are praised for their friendliness and helpfulness. If you’re traveling with kids or as a couple, you’ll find plenty of space and opportunity for photos, swims, or just lounging in the sun.

While the itinerary includes stops with free admission, such as Blue Lagoon and Santa Maria Bay, there’s a mention that Blue Lagoon passes are free if you register online, so be sure to take care of that beforehand. Onboard, there’s restroom access, and you can even try a stand-up paddleboard at no extra charge.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This boat cruise appeals most to travelers looking for a relaxed, scenic adventure. It’s best suited for those who enjoy swimming, snorkeling, or simply lounging and soaking up the views. If you’re traveling with a smaller group or value friendly guides and good facilities, you’ll find this experience ticks all the boxes. It’s also an excellent choice for solo travelers who want to join a social activity that’s not overly crowded.

However, if you’re after a detailed historical commentary or a full-day excursion, this may not be your best fit. The tour focuses more on natural beauty and leisure rather than cultural education. Also, be aware that crowds can gather at the Blue Lagoon, especially during peak season, though many reviewers noted that the boat’s flexibility allows you to avoid the hustle.

Final Thoughts

This boat tour around Malta offers a balance of stunning scenery, relaxed swimming stops, and friendly guidance for an affordable price. Most travelers leave with unforgettable photos and a sense of having experienced Malta’s coastline beyond the usual tourist spots. The inclusion of facilities and equipment, combined with the small group size, makes it a comfortable and enjoyable outing.

If your ideal day involves exploring crystal-clear waters, snapping picturesque shots, and enjoying a laid-back vibe, this tour is a fantastic choice. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate value for money and genuine natural beauty over lengthy historical commentary.

In essence, this cruise is a delightful way to see some of Malta’s most iconic spots while keeping things simple, scenic, and fun.

FAQs

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, providing enough time to enjoy multiple stops without feeling rushed.

Is snorkeling equipment included?
Snorkeling gear is available for rent at a small fee, but most stops offer great opportunities for swimming and snorkeling without additional equipment.

Where does the tour start and end?
It departs from Mellieha, with the meeting point at the coordinates X8QH+5WQ, Malta, and concludes back at the same location.

What amenities are onboard?
The boat features restroom facilities, and you’ll have access to stand-up paddleboards for some extra fun in the water.

Are there any restrictions or requirements?
The tour is suitable for most travelers, with a maximum group size of 24. Service animals are allowed, and most travelers can participate.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to book about 23 days in advance, as the tour is popular, especially during peak seasons.

Is there a free Blue Lagoon pass?
Yes, you can register online for a free pass to the Blue Lagoon, or contact the tour provider for assistance.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The tour is weather-dependent; if canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This Maltese boat cruise offers a practical, beautiful, and affordable way to experience Malta’s stunning coastlines, caves, and lagoons—perfect for those who want a taste of the sea in a relaxed setting.