Sliema/St. Paul’s: Gozo, Comino & Blue Lagoon Ferry Cruise

Discovering Malta’s Islands in a Day: A Review of the Sliema/St. Paul’s: Gozo, Comino & Blue Lagoon Ferry Cruise

Taking a day to visit Malta’s sister islands of Gozo and Comino sounds tempting for anyone looking to maximize their time in this Mediterranean gem. This ferry cruise offers a fantastic way to see some of Malta’s top sights without the hassle of arranging multiple transports or guided tours. The experience is centered around a sleek, modern catamaran, comfortable stops, and plenty of opportunities for swimming, exploring, and taking in spectacular views.

What we love most about this trip is the freedom it offers — you get two hours in each island, enough to wander, grab a bite, or just relax. Plus, the boat itself is a highlight: an air-conditioned vessel with Wi-Fi, toilets, and a friendly crew making the whole day smooth and enjoyable. The Blue Lagoon is undeniably a showstopper with its crystal-clear waters and sandy seabed, perfect for a refreshing dip.

A potential downside? The short stay in each location might leave some wanting more time, especially at Blue Lagoon, which can get extremely crowded. Also, since land transportation in Gozo isn’t included, exploring beyond the port requires extra planning. This trip is perfect for travelers who want a quick, scenic overview of Malta’s islands rather than an in-depth tour.

This experience suits those who value flexibility, value for money, and a relaxed pace. It’s ideal if you’re comfortable exploring on your own, enjoy boat rides, and want a taste of Malta’s stunning islands without the high cost of guided excursions.

Key Points

• Flexible free time: You can explore at your own pace in Gozo and Comino.
• Comfortable boat: Modern, air-conditioned, and equipped with Wi-Fi.
• Spectacular scenery: Stunning coastal views and a turquoise Blue Lagoon.
• Cost-effective: At $42 per person, it offers good value for a full-day trip.
• Independent exploration: No guided tour, so you can wander or relax as you wish.
• Transport considerations: Land transfers are not included, so plan for extra transportation costs in Gozo.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

The tour kicks off early in the morning from either Sliema Ferries or St. Paul’s Bay, depending on your booking choice. Both departure points are well-connected and easy to find, with most reviews recommending arriving 15–20 minutes early to secure a good seat. The boat itself is described as spacious and comfortable, with Wi-Fi, toilet facilities, and friendly staff onboard.

The cruise along Malta’s northern coastline offers a chance to enjoy breathtaking views of rugged cliffs, beaches, and coastal resorts. One reviewer mentioned the journey to Gozo takes about an hour and a half, with some noting the sea can be choppy, so seasickness tablets might be wise for sensitive travelers. The crew, praised for their helpfulness and cheerful demeanor, often keep spirits high during this part of the trip.

Stop in Gozo

Upon arriving at Marr Harbour, you get approximately two hours of free time. This is enough for a quick explore, a meal, or a ride on a public bus to the island’s capital, Victoria. Several reviews highlighted how easy it was to arrange independent transport — a “must-do” if you want to see more than just the port. One guest shared that land transport in Gozo is not included but readily available at the harbor for just €5, which is a small price for the freedom to explore more extensively.

A notable insight from a reviewer was that visiting Gozo’s castle and nearby attractions is worthwhile, but the limited time means you need to plan carefully. Some travelers found the short stay in Gozo a bit rushed, especially if they wanted to see more of the island’s scenic countryside, churches, or markets.

Transition to Comino and Blue Lagoon

After returning to the ferry, the journey continues to Comino, famous for the Blue Lagoon. The wait to disembark on Comino can be short but is sometimes marred by overcrowding, especially during peak season. The white sandy seabed and transparent waters create what many describe as a postcard-perfect swimming spot.

Visitors are encouraged to bring their own swim gear, towels, and waterproof cameras. The tour offers around two hours here, which many feel is enough to take a dip, snap photos, or relax on the boat if you prefer not to swim. An optional motorboat trip to the Caves and Crystal Lagoon can be booked on the spot for about €15, but weather and sea conditions can influence whether this is available.

The Value of Free Time

The reviews reveal many appreciate the balanced timing — enough to enjoy each location without feeling rushed. One guest remarked, “It was just the right amount of time in each place,” while another pointed out that Blue Lagoon can get crowded quickly, so arriving early, or being quick to secure a spot, is advantageous.

Additional Considerations

The trip isn’t guided, so you’ll need to navigate independently in each stop. This is a plus for independent travelers, but those seeking guided commentary might find this limiting. The lack of included land transportation in Gozo is another factor; if you want to explore beyond the port, you’ll need to arrange transport separately.

The price point of $42 is seen by many as excellent value, especially considering the comfort of the boat, scenic views, and the chance to visit two islands in a single day. However, some wish for more time in each location or longer at Blue Lagoon, especially given how crowded it gets.

What the Reviews and Real Experiences Tell Us

Many reviews emphasize the friendly crew and smooth organization. One noted that boarding was chaotic at first, and QR codes had to be scanned, which caused some delays. Arriving early can help avoid missing out on preferred seats or wristbands needed for Blue Lagoon disembarkation, especially after the new government regulation requiring an advance access pass (booked via the official website).

The Blue Lagoon often gets mixed reviews: stunning but crowded. Some travelers find the two hours enough to enjoy swimming but wish they had more time to relax and explore. A few reviewers mentioned that more time in Gozo would be preferable, especially to visit key sites like Victoria’s Citadel or other inland attractions.

The boat ride itself is a highlight — comfortable, modern, and equipped with Wi-Fi, making the long journey more pleasant. Many also appreciated the free Wi-Fi and toilet facilities, which add a touch of convenience during the day.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Trip

• Arrive early to secure a good seat and avoid missing your preferred embarkation point.
• Bring sunscreen, swimwear, towels, and water shoes — the Blue Lagoon’s sandy seabed is beautiful but can be hot and uneven.
• Prepare cash for land transportation or optional activities in Gozo.
• Book your access pass for disembarking at Blue Lagoon ahead of time to avoid delays or denial of entry.
• Consider seasickness remedies if you’re prone to motion sickness, especially during the longer boat ride.
• Be aware that food and drinks are not included, so bringing some snacks or purchasing locally is advisable.

Is This Tour the Right Choice for You?

This ferry cruise is best suited for adventurous, independent travelers seeking a cost-effective way to see Malta’s iconic islands. It offers excellent value for those who don’t mind exploring on their own and want a relaxed, scenic day out rather than an intense guided tour.

If you’re okay with short stops and crowded beaches, you’ll likely love the ease of the boat ride, the stunning blue waters, and the chance to snorkel or swim at Blue Lagoon. However, if you’re looking for a more leisurely experience with longer stays and guided commentary, this might not be your best option.

Travelers who prioritize flexibility, comfortable transportation, and authentic island exploration will find this trip a valuable part of their Malta itinerary. Just keep in mind the timing constraints and plan your day accordingly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to book my transport in advance?
Not necessarily. Land transport in Gozo isn’t included, but you can organize it at the harbor for around €5, which many travelers do. Be sure to factor this into your planning.

Is the boat comfortable and modern?
Yes, the vessel is described as a state-of-the-art, air-conditioned catamaran with Wi-Fi and toilet facilities, making the journey comfortable even on warm days.

How long is the trip overall?
The tour runs about 7 to 7.5 hours, including travel time, stops, and free exploration periods in Gozo and Comino.

Can I swim at Blue Lagoon?
Absolutely. The waters are clear and inviting. Just remember to bring your swim gear and towel, and be prepared for the crowds.

Are guided tours included?
No, the stops in Gozo and Comino are at your leisure. You’ll need to explore independently or arrange your own transport if you want to see more.

What is the best time to arrive at Blue Lagoon?
Getting there early gives you a better chance to avoid the largest crowds and secure a good spot for swimming or relaxing.

Is this tour suitable for families or people with mobility issues?
It’s generally not suitable for those with mobility impairments or prone to seasickness, and no special facilities are mentioned for disabilities.

To sum it up, this ferry cruise from Malta offers a beautiful, flexible, and budget-friendly way to tick off some of Malta’s most celebrated spots. The spectacular scenery, comfortable boat, and free time make it a popular choice, especially for those eager to explore independently and enjoy a relaxed day on the water. While the limited time at each location and the crowded Blue Lagoon are worth considering, the overall experience provides a memorable snapshot of Malta’s islands—perfect for the curious and adventure-ready traveler.