Full Day Cruise to Gozo & Blue Lagoon with visit to Rabat

If you’re considering a day trip to explore Malta’s nearby islands, this cruise to Gozo and the Blue Lagoon might catch your eye. While it’s a popular choice, especially for those wanting a taste of Malta’s scenic coastlines, it’s worth knowing what to expect before booking.

What we like about this tour is that it offers stunning views along Malta’s northern coast and provides a comfortable way to see two islands in one day. Plus, the Blue Lagoon’s clear waters are a definite highlight for swimming or just relaxing on the beach.

On the flip side, some travelers find the limited time in Gozo a bit frustrating, and there are some small logistical quirks, like the need to book free tickets for Comino in advance. This experience suits those who want a relaxed, scenic day with easy transportation and aren’t overly concerned with a tightly packed itinerary.

Key Points

• Scenic coastal views and a relaxed cruise experience.
• Visit to Rabat in Gozo with free time to explore the Cittadella.
• Swim in the Blue Lagoon’s clear waters, ideal for escaping the heat.
• Value for money at around $50 per person, especially considering transport and excursions.
• Some time limitations in Gozo may mean a quick visit rather than an in-depth tour.
• The trip is wheelchair accessible and includes commentary, making it accessible and informative.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour offers a fairly straightforward package. You get cruise transport, commentary throughout the day, and buses taking you from the dock to Victoria, the capital of Gozo, plus Qala Belvedere. The onboard facilities help make the trip comfortable, and given the price point of around $50 per person, it’s generally seen as good value—though not including food or drinks means you’ll want to bring your own or plan to buy them separately.

You’ll love the convenience of transportation and organized stops, but remember, snorkeling gear is extra, and there’s no included meals, so bring snacks or plan to eat on your own. Also, keep in mind that later in 2025, you’ll need to book a free ticket online to walk on Comino, which is a small added step but important to note.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

Morning: Departure and Scenic Cruise

Your day kicks off early, with a meeting point at Sliema Ferries opposite McDonald’s around 10 AM. The boat departs at 10:30 AM, and the ride along Malta’s northern coast offers views of St. Paul’s Island and Mellieha. This part of the trip is quite scenic, and many reviews mention enjoying the beautiful coastline and the chance to spot dolphins, jellyfish, or fish from the boat.

Mid-Morning: Arrival at Gozo and Rabat

When you arrive on Gozo, the tour includes bus transportation to Victoria, the island’s main town. You’ll have about 75 minutes of free time to explore Rabat, the island’s capital, and visit the Cittadella, the historic fortress offering panoramic views.

Travelers say the organization is generally good, with some reviews praising the friendly guides and the ability to get a quick glimpse of the town. One reviewer mentioned, “Thoroughly enjoyed the whole day including the bus ride on Gozo and our time at the Blue Lagoon,” highlighting the overall positive vibe.

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Afternoon: Blue Lagoon and Comino

Next, it’s back on the boat, heading to Comino Island to enjoy the Blue Lagoon. The lagoon’s crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or just lounging on the beach. Some reviews note the crowded nature of the lagoon, but most agree it’s worth the visit for its beauty.

You’ll have time in the afternoon to swim or relax, but note that time is limited—most reviews mention around 2 hours here, which may feel rushed if you’re wanting to fully explore or snorkel extensively.

Return Journey

The boat departs for Malta in the late afternoon, arriving back around 5 PM. The overall experience is quite relaxed, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the scenery and the water.

What Travelers Are Saying

Positive notes center around the stunning views and good value. One reviewer shared, “We liked it very much,” emphasizing the enjoyment of the trip. Another said, “The Blue Lagoon was beautiful and worth the trip,” confirming the lagoon’s popularity.

Many reviews also highlight the knowledgeable guides and the organized transportation, which helps make the day run smoothly. A reviewer from Bulgaria mentioned “excellent organization, especially with the pick-up and drop-off service,” which is a big plus for those unfamiliar with Malta.

On the downside, some travelers mention that the timing in Gozo is tight, with only a quick visit to the Citadella and limited free time. One review pointed out, “Wish there was a little more time in Gozo,” which is common among those looking to explore more in-depth.

Other small frustrations include the cost of additional amenities like top-deck sunbeds (about EUR 10), and the need to pre-book and carry a QR code for Comino entry. Several reviews noted that free drinks are no longer available, and the onboard toilet is quite small, which may be worth considering.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise is ideal for travellers seeking a relaxing day with scenic views, a quick visit to Gozo’s capital, and a swim in the Blue Lagoon. It’s particularly suited for those who want an organized, budget-friendly tour without the hassle of planning transport and stops themselves.

If you’re short on time but want to experience some of Malta’s nearby islands, this trip offers a good balance of sightseeing and relaxation. It’s also accessible (wheelchair friendly), which broadens its appeal. However, if you’re someone who prefers more time exploring each destination or likes to snorkel extensively, you might find the limited time in Gozo a bit restrictive.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a solid introduction to Malta’s neighboring islands at an affordable price. The combination of coastal scenery, the historic charm of Rabat, and the inviting waters of the Blue Lagoon makes it a popular choice for many.

While the time constraints and some logistical quirks might not suit those who prefer a more leisurely or in-depth exploration, most visitors find the value, organization, and beautiful views outweigh the minor inconveniences.

If your goal is a stress-free day with plenty of chances to relax and enjoy Malta’s natural beauty, this tour is worth considering. Just plan ahead for the Comino ticket, bring your own snacks, and set realistic expectations about the brief stop in Gozo.

FAQ

Do I need to bring my own food and drinks?
Yes, food and drinks are not included, so bringing snacks or water is a good idea.

How long is the free time in Gozo?
You’ll have about 75 minutes to explore Rabat and the Cittadella.

Is the Blue Lagoon crowded?
Many travelers mention it can get busy, but the water’s beauty makes it worth the visit.

Are snorkeling equipment provided?
Snorkeling gear is available to rent, but it’s not included in the price.

What should I bring for the trip?
Comfortable shoes, swimwear, towel, and sunscreen are recommended.

Can I go on the top deck of the boat?
Additional EUR 10 is needed for sunbeds on the top deck; the standard experience is on the lower levels.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair friendly.

What time does the boat leave?
It departs at 10:30 AM from Sliema Ferries.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Do I need to book my Comino ticket in advance?
Yes, starting May 2025, you’ll need to reserve your free ticket online for the 1:30–5:30 PM slot.

This cruise is a good pick for those who want a fun, scenic day with manageable logistics. It’s not a deep dive into each destination, but it does hit the highlights with plenty of water, views, and relaxed vibes.

You can check availability for your dates here: