Gozo, Comino and Blue lagoon Cruise

If you’re visiting Malta and short on time but eager to see its most iconic spots, a full-day cruise to Gozo, Comino, and the Blue Lagoon might be just what you need. We’ve looked into this popular tour — offered by Luzzu Cruises — to give you a clear picture of what it’s like, so you can decide if it aligns with your travel style.

What we love about this trip is the chance to see two islands in one day, which makes it perfect for travelers with limited time. Plus, the boat itself offers a relaxed vibe with comfortable facilities and some fun amenities like a waterslide and sundeck. On the flip side, a potential snag is that the land stops in Gozo are fairly brief, which might leave some wanting more time to explore beyond the designated stops.

This tour suits those who want a balanced mix of sightseeing, leisure, and cruising, especially if you’re keen on snapping photos, enjoying crystal-clear waters, or simply soaking up the scenery. If you’re after a laid-back adventure that covers key highlights without over-complicating your day, this could be a good fit.

Key Points

• Ideal for short stays: Covers both Gozo and Comino in one day.
• Good value for money: Approx $46, including boat, stops, and transport.
• Scenic views: Offers plenty of photo opportunities from the water and on land.
• Flexible activities: Swimming and snorkelling at Blue Lagoon, with equipment rental available.
• Limited land time: Some stops, like Victoria in Gozo, are brief, so plan your exploration accordingly.
• Family-friendly: Suitable for most travelers, though swimmers will enjoy the Blue Lagoon best.

What to Expect on the Tour

This cruise is designed as a comprehensive day trip that hits major Maltese islands and highlights. It’s not a guided tour in the traditional sense—more a combination of transportation, scenic cruising, and short stops that allow you to see the sights at your own pace.

Departure from Sliema

You’ll start your day at the Luzzu Cruises terminal in Sliema, arriving about 30 minutes before the scheduled departure. From here, the boat departs for a scenic cruise along Malta’s coast, passing notable bays like St Julian’s and St George’s Bay. These views are a highlight in themselves—cruising along the coast gives you a peaceful, panoramic perspective of the island’s shoreline.

The Cruise: Views and Facilities

As you set sail, expect beautiful vistas of bays, towns, and rocky shores. The boat is equipped with bathroom facilities, a sundeck, and an onboard bar where you can buy drinks and snacks—though food isn’t included in the ticket price. Kids and adults alike tend to enjoy the waterslide and swimming ladders, especially when anchored near scenic spots.

Stop 1: Xlendi Bay, Gozo

The first major stop in Gozo is Xlendi Bay, where you get a quick 20-minute photo break. This spot is known for its pretty cliffside setting—ideal for snapping some photos or just stretching your legs. Reviewers mention that this short stop is mainly for quick pictures, so don’t expect an extensive exploration here.

Land Transport in Gozo

Next, the boat anchors at the main harbor in Gozo, and you’ll transfer onto a bus for a guided but somewhat relaxed tour of the island. Stops include Victoria’s Citadel, a hilltop fortress offering panoramic views, and Xlendi Bay. The bus stops at Victoria for about an hour, giving you some free time to wander independently, browse the market, or grab a bite.

Reviewers note that this part of the trip is more about transport than guided sightseeing—some felt the brief stops and lack of explanations left them wanting more context. One traveler said, “No explanations at all,” which might be frustrating if you’re a history buff or love learning about local sites.

Stop 2: The Citadel and Market

The highlight here is the Citadel in Victoria, which is a well-preserved fortified area with bars and shops, and stunning views. The hour spent allows for some independent exploration, but again, it’s a quick look. A reviewer mentioned, “Walking through Victoria was an eye-opener to experience a taste of life on Gozo,” but also wished for more time to properly explore.

Sail to Comino and the Blue Lagoon

Post-Gozan exploration, the boat departs for Comino, where the famous Blue Lagoon beckons. Depending on the season, you’ll have 90 minutes (April-October) or 60 minutes (November-March) to swim, sunbathe, or snorkel. The water here is incredibly clear, and it’s easy to see why this spot is so popular.

Snorkeling gear can be rented on board for about €5, and many reviews praise this part as the highlight of the trip. You’ll also cruise past the Comino Caves, which are impressive and add a touch of adventure to the cruise.

The Return

After enjoying Blue Lagoon, the boat takes you back along the coast, with some time to relax on deck or enjoy the view. The boat facilities and the crew help keep the experience smooth and enjoyable.

An Honest Look at the Experience

While the tour packs in a well-rounded experience, reviews highlight some areas to consider. Several travelers mention the limited time in Gozo’s main sights—some felt an hour in Victoria is too brief if you want to explore more deeply. A review states, “The boat tour was very nice but there wasn’t enough time in Gozo to see everything. Another hour would have made a lot of difference.”

On the positive side, many reviews praise the boat’s cleanliness, friendly staff, and comfortable amenities, especially considering the price point. One traveler mentioned, “The crew was helpful, and the boat was comfortable, making the long day enjoyable.”

Pricing at around $46.44 per person seems reasonable, given the includes—boat, transport, and stops. However, since food and drinks are not included, you might want to bring snacks or plan to buy on board, which could add to your costs.

Weather and Season

Travelers note that weather can impact the experience, especially for swimming. In winter months, the water can be too cold for most to swim, but the scenery remains attractive. On windy days, the boat ride can get a little choppy—so pack accordingly if you’re prone to seasickness.

Overall Value

Most visitors agree this tour offers good value for the money. The combination of boat cruising, island stops, and the Blue Lagoon makes for a memorable day. It’s particularly praised for the stunning views and relaxed pace, though some suggest a longer time on land would be beneficial.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise is best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive, scenic overview of Malta’s islands without the hassle of organizing multiple transports and entries. It’s ideal if you’re okay with shorter land stops and prefer enjoying the scenery from the water.

It’s also a good choice for those who love swimming and snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, and for families or groups who want a fun, relaxed day out. If you’re after an in-depth tour with expert guides or more free time to explore, you might find this tour somewhat limited.

Final Thoughts

The Gozo, Comino, and Blue Lagoon cruise from Sliema offers a well-organized, scenic escape that captures Malta’s island charm. You’ll love the stunning water views, the Blue Lagoon’s crystal clarity, and the ease of reaching multiple highlights in a single day. The onboard amenities and relaxed pace make it a comfortable choice, especially for those wanting a hassle-free experience.

That said, if you’re craving more in-depth exploration or longer land stops, you might find this trip a bit rushed. It’s a good balance for travelers who are happy to see key sights, snap photos, and enjoy leisure time in beautiful settings.

Overall, it’s a solid option for a budget-friendly, scenic day trip—especially if you value comfort, good scenery, and the chance to relax on the water amid stunning locations.

FAQ

Is food included in this tour?
No. Food and drinks are not included, but there’s an onboard bar where you can purchase snacks and beverages.

Do I need to book Blue Lagoon tickets in advance?
Yes, if you want to get off at Blue Lagoon, it’s important to reserve a free ticket beforehand at blcomino.com.

How long do we stay at each stop?
You’ll have about 20 minutes at Xlendi Bay, approximately an hour in Victoria, and 90 minutes (April-October) or 60 minutes (November-March) at Blue Lagoon.

Are snorkeling equipment provided?
No, but you can rent snorkeling gear on board for about €5 per set.

What facilities are available on the boat?
The boat has bathroom facilities, a sundeck, a waterslide, swimming ladders, and an onboard bar.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, especially if they enjoy swimming and water activities, but keep in mind the boat can get crowded, and some stops are brief.

How should I prepare for the weather?
Bring sunscreen, hats, and layers, especially if you visit in winter when the water and air can be chilly.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, it offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, making it flexible if your plans change due to weather or other reasons.

If you’re looking for a relaxing, scenic way to explore Malta’s islands in a single day, this cruise hits the mark. Just be ready for some quick stops and a lively boat ride—an experience that balances nature, leisure, and a taste of Maltese coastal charm.