From Bugibba: Gozo, Comino and Blue Lagoon One-day (CMO)

Exploring Malta’s Hidden Gems: A Deep Dive into the Gozo, Comino, and Blue Lagoon Tour

Traveling through Malta, there’s a sense that some of its best experiences are found just beyond the main island — especially when it comes to exploring its smaller, more tranquil sister islands. This particular tour, departing from Bugibba, promises a full day of scenic cruising, free time to explore, and plenty of opportunities for swimming and soaking up the views. While it’s not perfect, it does hit many of the right notes for those craving a relaxed, island-hopping adventure.

What makes this trip stand out? First, we love the flexibility built into the schedule — you get to enjoy Gozo at your own pace, which is a rare and welcome feature on busy day tours. Second, the Blue Lagoon’s crystal-clear waters are truly stunning, offering a perfect spot for a refreshing dip. That said, a potential downside is the crowded nature of some locations, especially Blue Lagoon, which can sometimes feel overwhelming.

This tour tends to suit travelers who value scenic views and a laid-back vibe over a packed itinerary. If you’re after a relaxed day with plenty of time for swimming and exploring at your leisure, it’s a solid choice. However, if you prefer a highly structured day with little free time, it’s worth keeping that in mind.

Key Points

• Flexible schedule means you can enjoy Gozo at your own pace.
• Stunning Blue Lagoon offers clear waters—ideal for swimming and relaxing.
• Scenic coastal cruise provides breathtaking views of Malta’s north coast.
• Crowded spots can sometimes detract from the experience, especially at popular sites.
• Duration of about 7 hours makes it a manageable day trip, though some may find it rushed.
• Price point around $43 per person offers decent value considering the included features.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Look at the Itinerary and What You Can Expect

Starting Point: Bugibba Jetty

Your day begins at Bugibba Jetty, a convenient spot for those staying in northern Malta. The boat departs with a relaxed vibe, and because the tour offers a “Flexible Vessel Schedule,” you might find some variation in timing. The cruise along Malta’s scenic north coast is a highlight right from the start, offering panoramic views of the rugged coastline, cliffs, and perhaps some local wildlife if you’re lucky.

The Journey to Gozo: Scenic Cruise and Free Exploration

After about an hour or so on the water, you arrive at Mgarr, Gozo. Here’s where the tour offers a real chance for independent exploration. You’ll have some free time to wander, take photos, or just soak in the island’s quieter charm. This part of the trip feels especially valuable because it’s not overly rushed; you can choose to relax at a café or explore some of the local sights at your own pace.

However, a review from a traveler in July 2025 notes, “In Gozo, you can barely see the cathedral (even if you take the car that takes you close by),” which hints that the free time may sometimes feel limited or not as comprehensive as some might hope. Still, being able to see Gozo’s essence without a tightly scheduled tour can be a real plus.

The Blue Lagoon: Main Attraction for Swimming and Relaxing

Next, the boat heads to Comino’s Blue Lagoon, which is undeniably the star of the day. Its crystal-clear, turquoise waters are perfect for quick swims and unwinding on the sandy shores. You’ll love the views here — many travelers agree that Blue Lagoon’s natural beauty is truly special. It’s an iconic spot, but the flip side is that it’s often swamped with visitors, especially in peak season.

One traveler from Italy shared, “We got stuck on the steps leading from the boarding point to the top of the cliff,” highlighting how crowded some parts can get. The water’s beauty is undeniable, but if you’re after peace and quiet, you might find the volume of fellow travelers a bit distracting.

More Great Tours Nearby

Return Journey and Overall Timing

After around five hours at Comino, the boat moves on to spend roughly two hours at Blue Lagoon. The schedule is designed to be flexible, but with only seven hours total, you’ll want to make the most of your time — especially since some travelers have expressed feeling rushed. The return to Bugibba marks the end of a day that’s both scenic and relaxing, though not necessarily slow-paced.

Price and Value Analysis

At roughly $43 per person, this tour offers a decent deal considering the inclusions. The price covers the cruise, the flexibility in scheduling, and the chance to see multiple islands in one day without the hassle of arranging individual transport. For travelers looking for an affordable way to tick off Malta’s lesser-known islands, this is a reasonable choice.

However, keep in mind the potential for crowded spots and limited free time — if your ideal trip involves more in-depth exploration or tranquility, you might find this tour somewhat surface-level.

How It Compares to Other Experiences

There are other tours offering similar excursions, often with additional features like caves or more structured itineraries. For example, some options include visits to caves or longer time in each location, but those tend to be more expensive. If you’re after a straightforward, scenic cruise with swimming, this tour hits the right notes without overcomplicating things.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re someone who loves beach time, scenic boat rides, and the chance to explore Gozo at your own pace, this tour could suit you well. It’s a relaxed day out with plenty of opportunities for swimming and taking in Malta’s coastal beauty. Just be prepared for some crowds at Blue Lagoon, especially during peak season, and manage your expectations about the limited time in Gozo.

Travelers who are okay with a somewhat busy day and prefer not to overschedule their trip will likely find this to be a satisfactory way to see Malta’s island twins. And for those who value honest, scenic downtime over a jam-packed itinerary, it’s a solid pick.

FAQs

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs approximately 7 hours, including cruising, free exploration, and swimming time. Exact times may vary slightly depending on the vessel schedule.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at Bugibba Jetty, making it convenient if you’re staying nearby.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers the cruise and the flexible vessel schedule, allowing you some freedom on timing.

Can I swim at Blue Lagoon?
Yes, the tour includes time for swimming in Blue Lagoon’s clear waters — a major highlight of the trip.

Is there much free time in Gozo?
Yes, you get some free time to explore Gozo at your own pace, although review feedback suggests it might be limited or not heavily structured.

Are there any age restrictions?
The information provided doesn’t specify age restrictions, but the tour is generally suitable for most travelers who enjoy boat trips and swimming.

Do I need to book a ticket for Comino separately?
Yes, due to new regulations starting May 2025, you need to secure a Comino access ticket through the official website if you plan to disembark on the island.

Is the tour worth the price?
For about $43, it offers good value for scenic views, island hopping, and swimming, but keep in mind the potential for crowds and limited free time.

All in all, this tour from Bugibba offers a laid-back way to see some of Malta’s most beautiful spots with scenic views and a refreshing swim. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a relaxed day out, especially if you prioritize natural beauty and free exploration over tightly packed schedules. Just remember, crowded spots can be a bit of a downside, so come prepared to share the space and make the most of your time.

You can check availability for your dates here: