The Gozo in a Day Jeep Tour w/ Private Boat ride to Gozo & return

Thinking about slipping away from Malta for a day? If so, the Gozo in a Day Jeep Tour with a private boat ride might catch your eye. It promises a mix of sightseeing, beach time, and a more personalized experience thanks to the private boat transfer and flexible jeep tour. We’ve looked into what this trip offers so you can decide if it’s a fit for your Malta adventure.

What really stands out about this experience are the convenience of the private boat transfer—which helps skip queues—and the combination of well-chosen stops that capture the essence of Gozo. On the flip side, some travelers mention that waiting times can be long, and the jeep space might be cramped. Though, it’s a good pick for those wanting a full day of exploration without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

This tour is perfect if you’re after a balanced mix of sightseeing, local flavor, and beach relaxation. It’s especially suited for visitors who enjoy flexible itineraries, are okay with limited historical narration, and want to see the main highlights without the fuss. If you’re traveling with friends, family, or prefer a hassle-free day on an island full of surprises, this one might be worth your consideration.

Key Points

• Flexible, guided experience with a private boat transfer for quicker access to Gozo
• Includes a delicious three-course lunch, making it easy to enjoy the day without extra planning
• Major attractions covered, from ancient temples and fortresses to beautiful beaches and coastal formations
• Group size limited to 25, ensuring a more intimate, personalized feel
• Weather-dependent activities like boat rides and Xlendi Bay swimming may be affected
• Long waiting times in ferry crossings and initial pickups can sometimes extend the day

This tour offers a solid way to see some of the best parts of Gozo in one day, with the added benefit of private boat transfers that help you avoid queues typically associated with ferry crossings. For around $116 per person, you’re getting a lot of value—considering transportation, guiding, and a hearty lunch—delivered in a way that’s meant to be flexible and laid-back.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Ggantija Archaeological Park

Your adventure kicks off with a visit to the Ggantija Temples, one of the world’s second oldest UNESCO sites. These megalithic structures are impressive feats of ancient engineering. While the admission isn’t included, many find the visit worthwhile for a sense of the island’s long history. Reviewers often mention the site as a fascinating highlight, although some note that it’s more about sightseeing than in-depth history.

Tal Mixta Cave

Next, you might stop by the Tal Mixta Cave, a quick 15-minute visit to marvel at its natural formations. Although admission is free, this stop offers a brief but scenic break for photos and fresh air.

The Citadel

A true highlight—the old fortress in Victoria, offering panoramic views and a chance to wander through ancient streets. Spending about an hour here, you’ll get a good feel for Gozo’s historic heart. Many travelers describe this as a “thoroughly enjoyable” stop that feels like stepping back in time.

Dwejra Bay & Fungus Rock

Another must-see is Dwejra Bay, famous for its dramatic coastlines and sea formations. If the weather permits, you’ll get some time to soak in the scenery and maybe snap a few photos of Fungus Rock. Many reviewers find this spot magical, although some mention that time here can be limited.

Ramla Bay

The largest and most famous beach on Gozo, Ramla Bay offers a golden stretch of sand perfect for a quick dip or relaxing walk. It’s widely appreciated for its natural beauty, and many visitors enjoy a peaceful moment here. The time allotted is about 30 minutes, so plan accordingly.

Xwejni Salt Pans & Belvedere

A quick stop at the Xwejni Salt Pans provides a vivid look at traditional salt harvesting, with a striking patterns of white and shimmering pools. Nearby at Belvedere in Qala, you’ll get sweeping views of the coast, making this a photographer’s delight.

Marsalforn Bay & Xlendi Bay

The coastal towns of Marsalforn and Xlendi are perfect for a stroll and some seaside atmosphere. Marsalforn has a promenade and gentle sands, while Xlendi is popular for swimming, snorkeling, and diving—though weather can influence the latter. Multiple reviews praise the relaxed vibe and scenic setting, though some mention that Xlendi’s activity can be limited if weather isn’t ideal.

Passing by Comino Island

While not a stop, the tour passes by Comino, offering perfect photo opportunities of Malta’s famous beaches and caves. Many find this a nice add-on to the day’s sightseeing.

The Practical Details

Transportation & Group Size

You’ll travel in a jeep or minivan, with group sizes capped at 25. The small groups ensure you’re not lost in a crowd, and the jeeps add a bit of adventure. Some reviews note that jeep space can be tight, especially if you’re tall or traveling with bulky gear, but drivers usually do their best to make everyone comfortable.

The Private Boat Ride

This part of the tour is a real perk—if the weather cooperates, you’ll skip ferry queues and get to enjoy a scenic boat transfer to and from Gozo. Many reviews rave about the convenience and the chance to soak in the views from the water. However, if the weather turns bad, this part can be canceled, and you’ll need to rely on the regular ferry or other options.

Lunch & Extras

Included in the tour is a three-course meal, with drinks, which is helpful for refueling after a morning of sightseeing. No extra charges here, making it a good deal for those who want to relax and enjoy local flavors without additional planning.

Cost & Value

At just over $116, the tour offers a comprehensive day out—including transportation, guide, boat rides, and lunch. While the entrance fees to sites like Ggantija or the Inland Sea are extra, the overall package is reasonably priced considering the convenience and guided experience.

What Travelers Say

Many reviews praise the knowledgeable guides, with some mentioning guides like Paulina and George as highlights. The flexibility of the tour allows for a relaxed pace, with stops that suit different interests—whether it’s photography, swimming, or sightseeing.

Some negatives include waiting times—ferry queues and jeep assignments can extend the day, especially if you’re unlucky with timings. A few travelers also found the jeep cramped or the ride a little rough, but most agree the views and overall experience make up for it.

One traveler, for example, said, “The day was saved by a great driver who did his very best to make the day interesting and memorable,” highlighting the importance of a good guide.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is well-suited for those who want a laid-back, guided day exploring Gozo without having to organize transportation or worry about logistics. It’s ideal for travelers who enjoy scenic drives, beach time, and cultural sights, but aren’t necessarily looking for deep historical explanations.

If you’re a family with older children, or a group of friends wanting to enjoy a mix of adventure and relaxation, this tour hits the right notes. However, if you prefer a more independent, self-guided experience or are concerned about tight jeep space, you might want to consider other options.

The Gozo in a Day Jeep Tour with Private Boat Ride presents a good balance of sightseeing, comfort, and local flavor. It offers a chance to see the main highlights of Gozo with the convenience of private transfers and a guided experience, all wrapped into roughly nine hours.

If you enjoy scenic drives, coastal views, and a leisurely pace, you’ll find this tour offers plenty of memorable moments. Just be prepared for waiting times and limited space in the jeeps if you’re taller or more claustrophobic. The inclusion of lunch and a scenic boat ride makes this a well-rounded choice for travelers looking to maximize their day on this charming island.

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
It can be, especially if your kids enjoy sightseeing and being on the water. Just note that the jeep can be cramped, and some stops may involve walking or waiting.

What is included in the price?
You get transportation by jeep/minivan, a driver, a private boat transfer (weather permitting), and a three-course lunch with drinks. Entrance fees are extra.

What if the weather is bad?
Boat transfers and certain activities like swimming at Xlendi Bay depend on good weather. If canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How long is the tour?
It lasts about 8 to 9 hours, starting at 8:30 am.

Are the jeep rides comfortable?
Some reviews mention the jeeps are small and a bit cramped, especially for taller travelers, but drivers work hard to make it enjoyable.

Can I skip some stops?
Yes, as the tour offers flexibility, and guides often accommodate your interests.

Are there bathroom stops?
The itinerary doesn’t specify, but your guide will likely include short breaks.

How much walking is involved?
Expect some walking at sites like the Citadel and Ggantija, but overall, it’s manageable for those with moderate fitness.

Are there any hidden costs?
Entrance fees to certain sites like Ggantija are extra (around 20-25 EUR), and souvenirs or snacks are not included.

Is this tour good for photography?
Absolutely. Many stops, like Dwejra Bay and the salt pans, are perfect for snapping memorable photos.

If you’re after a laid-back, well-organized way to see Gozo’s top sights with some added comfort, this tour could be just what you need. It’s a chance to experience the island’s beauty without the hassle, making for a full, rewarding day.