Exploring Malta’s neighboring island of Gozo can feel like uncovering a hidden treasure, especially when you opt for a tour that combines a quick cave adventure with a leisurely visit to the Blue Lagoon. This particular experience, offered by Joyride Watersports Gozo, has earned a solid 4.6 out of 5 from dozens of happy travelers.
What makes this tour special? First, you get to enter a cave inside a boat, which is pretty much a bucket-list moment for water lovers. Second, the Blue Lagoon’s turquoise waters are as stunning as they look in photos, making it a perfect spot to swim, snorkel, or simply soak in the scenery.
However, one thing to keep in mind is that the Blue Lagoon can get crowded, especially during peak times, which some visitors mentioned. So if you’re after a more peaceful experience, you might want to consider visiting at less busy hours or exploring other nearby lagoons.
This tour is a solid choice for travelers who want a short but sweet taste of Gozo’s natural beauty, especially if you enjoy small groups, scenic boat rides, and the chance to relax in a beautiful setting.
Key Points
- Small group size makes for a more personal, less rushed experience.
- The Santa Maria Caves offer a memorable boat-in cave experience.
- The Blue Lagoon provides plenty of options: swimming, snorkeling, or just relaxing.
- The tour includes a drop-off at the lagoon for as long as you wish, giving you flexibility.
- The experience is weather-dependent, with routes and timing subject to change.
- Booking flexibility with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
What to Expect on the Tour
Planning out what you’ll actually do on this trip is helpful, especially if you’re trying to figure out whether it matches your travel style. This experience is set up as a day-long outing from Gozo, with a mix of boat rides, sightseeing, and free time at Blue Lagoon.
Starting Point and First Leg
You’ll meet your guide at Hondoq Bay in Qala, Gozo, a spot that’s fairly straightforward to find and a nice starting point for a water-based adventure. The initial part of the day involves a short boat ride to Santa Maria Caves, usually about 20 minutes.
The boat ride itself is quite scenic, and what’s really memorable is going inside a cave—something you won’t get to do everywhere. The boat enters the cavern, giving you a close-up view of the rugged limestone formations and the sensation of being inside a natural geological sculpture. Reviewers have mentioned how exciting and unique this part of the trip is, especially if you love any form of boat-based sightseeing.
Santa Maria Caves
Once inside the caves, you’ll have a chance to look around and take photos. The guide usually provides some commentary, sharing insights into the caves’ formation and significance. The visit lasts roughly 20 minutes, so it’s a quick but impactful stop.
Scenic Passages and Final Stop at Blue Lagoon
After exploring the caves, your boat will cruise past notable sights like Santa Maria Bay and the Comino Hotel. These views are pleasant and add to the overall scenic experience. Then, it’s a quick ride—about 5 minutes—to the Blue Lagoon, one of the most photographed spots around Malta.
Upon arrival, you’re free to stay as long as you like. Many visitors choose to swim in the inviting waters, rent snorkel gear, or just relax on the shore. The lagoon’s shallow, clear waters are perfect for a laid-back day of floating and soaking in the sun.
You might also find that the Blue Lagoon can get crowded, as noted in reviews, but that’s partly due to how popular it is. To maximize your enjoyment, consider arriving early or later in the afternoon when the crowds are thinner.
More Great Tours NearbyFlexible Return & End of Tour
The tour ends back at the meeting point, with the last boat from Comino leaving around 6:00 PM. You’re encouraged to arrange your own pickup time when you’re ready to leave, giving you some flexibility to spend as much or as little time as you want at the lagoon.
The Itinerary in Detail
Start: Joyride Watersports in Gozo, under a big yellow umbrella on the jetty, where you’ll meet your guide and gather for the day.
First boat ride: 5-minute cruise to Santa Maria Caves—an exciting opportunity to see a cave from the water, with the added thrill of entering a natural cavern.
Santa Maria Caves visit: About 20 minutes to explore, enjoy the scenery, snap photos, and listen to your guide’s insights.
Cruise back: 5-minute ride to the next stop, passing scenic spots on the way.
Blue Lagoon: The highlight for many—plenty of time to swim, snorkel, relax, and enjoy the stunning turquoise waters.
Return: When you’re ready, you’ll hop back on the boat for the ride back to Gozo, with options to stay longer at Blue Lagoon if you prefer.
What’s Included & What You Should Know
The tour includes the 20-minute boat trip to Santa Maria Caves, a drop-off at the Blue Lagoon for as long as you wish, and a pre-arranged pickup time to return. You also get a luggage storage space—a small but useful detail if you’re carrying extra gear or luggage.
Not included are food and drinks, so if you’re planning on staying longer at Blue Lagoon, bring a snack or water. Plus, hotel pickup and drop-off are not part of this package, so you’ll need to get to the meeting point yourself.
The Experience from Travelers’ Perspective
Based on reviews, this tour often hits the sweet spot for visitors wanting a relaxed, scenic day with a touch of adventure. Swantje mentioned how booking was smooth and easy, and even though the Blue Lagoon can get crowded, the overall experience was positive. She also suggested that if you’re after a quieter time, you might explore other less crowded lagoons, sometimes even with a small additional cost if booked directly.
Julie praised the knowledgeable guides and the overall beauty of Malta, which speaks to the quality of the local team. Olena highlighted the friendly and humorous guide, making the experience even more enjoyable.
The small group setting means fewer crowds on the boat and more personalized attention, something many travelers appreciate, especially when trying to capture the perfect photos or simply enjoy quieter moments.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
If you’re someone who enjoys short excursions with a focus on scenic beauty, this tour is a great fit. It’s ideal for travelers who want a quick, laid-back day without the fuss of a full-blown tour. The boat ride, cave exploration, and time at Blue Lagoon are perfect for nature lovers and water enthusiasts.
However, if you’re after a less crowded experience or prefer exploring less touristy spots, keep in mind that Blue Lagoon can be quite popular and busy. This tour suits those who don’t mind sharing the space and enjoy a small group vibe.
It’s also suitable for those traveling without a car, as the meeting point is straightforward to find, and the activity is primarily water-based with minimal walking involved.
FAQs
Do I need to bring anything?
Yes, bring a camera for photos, sunscreen to protect your skin, and beachwear so you’re ready to swim or snorkel.
Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, the captain can cancel or change routes based on weather conditions, ensuring safety for everyone.
How long is the Blue Lagoon stop?
You can stay there as long as you wish, with the guide arranging pickup at a later time. The last boat leaves at 6:00 PM.
Are there any food or drink options included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so plan to bring some snacks or water if needed.
Can I book and pay later?
Absolutely, you can reserve your spot now and pay nothing upfront, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before.
Does the tour include hotel pickup?
No, transportation to and from the meeting point is not included, so you’ll need to make your way to Hondoq Bay.
What’s the group size?
The tour is conducted in a small group, which enhances the experience and allows for more personalized service.
Is this suitable for children?
While the tour isn’t explicitly marketed as family-friendly, kids who enjoy water and boat rides will likely have a great time, but always check with the provider if you have younger children.
Gozo: 20-Minute Cave Tour and Blue Lagoon Stop
“Booking was smooth and easy, and everybody was really friendly. As said before – remember that it takes some time to get there from Mgarr harbour ;…”
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a relaxing yet adventurous day on Gozo, with a highlight reel of caves and turquoise waters, this tour is definitely worth considering. It strikes a good balance of scenic sightseeing, manageable time commitment, and flexibility at the Blue Lagoon. The small-group setting, friendly guides, and the simple pleasure of boat rides make for a memorable experience.
Keep in mind that the Blue Lagoon can be crowded, but if you’re prepared for that, the stunning scenery and the fun of entering a cave from a boat more than make up for it. Plus, the option to stay at the lagoon as long as you like gives you control over the day’s pace.
For travelers who enjoy water-based adventures, striking views, and a laid-back vibe, this tour offers a practical and enjoyable way to see some of Gozo’s most beautiful spots without feeling rushed.
Ready for a scenic boat ride, cave adventure, and a dip in those famous blue waters? This trip could be your sweet slice of Malta life.
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