From Melliea Bay: Gozo & Blue Lagoon Boat Tour w/ Swim Stop

If you’re considering a day trip that combines scenic sea views, island hopping, and relaxing swim stops, the Gozo & Blue Lagoon Boat Tour from Mellieha Bay might catch your eye. We’ve dug into what this experience offers, based on reviews and the detailed itinerary, to help you decide if it matches your travel style.

What we love about this tour is how it covers multiple highlights in one day — from the stunning caves and rock formations to the chance to explore Gozo’s old citadel and take a refreshing dip in the famous Blue Lagoon. On the flip side, a possible consideration is that it’s quite a packed schedule, so if you’re looking for a truly relaxed day with lots of downtime, this might feel a bit rushed.

This kind of tour really suits travelers who want an active, visually engaging experience and don’t mind a full day on the water. It’s particularly good for those eager to see the best of Malta’s surrounding islands without the hassle of organizing separate trips or transport.

Key Points

• All-in-one tour: Combines Malta, Gozo, and Comino in a single day for a comprehensive island experience.
• Affordable price: At $28 per person, you get a lot of sightseeing and swimming for your money.
• Highlights including caves and natural formations: Visit Santa Maria Caves, Elephant Head Rock, and smugglers’ caves.
• Flexible options at Gozo: Free time plus an optional bus tour to key sites like Victoria City and the citadel, perfect if you want deeper exploration.
• Swim stops at Blue Lagoon and Crystal Lagoon: Perfect for cooling off, snorkeling, and soaking up the sun.
• Knowledgeable crew: Many reviews praise the friendly staff and insightful guides, enhancing the experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Itinerary and What to Expect

The day begins in Mellieha Bay, with an 09:30 departure that sets the tone for an active day on the water. As you cruise out, you’ll pass by the famous Smugglers Caves, an intriguing sight that hints at Malta’s storied past. Next, the boat motors around Comino, showcasing Elephant Head Rock and other caves that are only accessible by sea, making for fantastic photo opportunities.

We especially enjoyed the visit to Santa Maria Caves, which offers scenic views and a chance to appreciate Malta’s rugged coast. These caves are worth a quick stop for photos — many travelers have noted how photogenic the scenery is.

The Gozo Stop — A Key Highlight

The boat anchors at the island of Gozo, giving around 2 hours and 45 minutes of free time or the option to explore further with an exclusive open bus tour. This bus tour lasts about 2 hours and 45 minutes and visits top sites like Victoria City, the Old Citadel, the Blue Hole, and Ta Pinu Cathedral.

The reviews highlight how the guides are knowledgeable, making the optional bus tour particularly enriching, especially for those who want to understand the island’s history and culture rather than just stroll around. One traveler mentioned, “It was full of great sights, the crew was very friendly and welcoming and I definitely recommend it!”

The Blue Lagoon Swim Stop

After exploring Gozo, the boat heads to the Blue Lagoon — a highlight for many. Here, you get about 1.5 hours to swim, snorkel, or simply lounge in the sun. Many reviews praise the Blue Lagoon for its clear, inviting waters, ideal for a relaxing break. One reviewer noted, “It’s much better to swim at Blue Lagoon from the boat than from the main beach as it was not that crowded.”

Scenic Return and Final Stops

On the way back, several caves and lagoons are on the route, including the Crystal Lagoon, Poppy’s Caves, and Lovers Caves. You’ll also pass by Santa Maria Tower and the WWII Santa Maria Battery, which add a touch of history to the scenery. The boat arrives back in Mellieha around 4 pm, giving you a full 6.5 hours of adventure.

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Is the Tour Worth the Price?

At $28 per person, this tour offers excellent value, considering the number of sites visited, the swim stops, and the included optional bus tour at Gozo. Many reviews mention that it’s “absolutely worth it for this price,” with some appreciating that they felt they got more than they paid for.

However, the schedule is quite full, with most of the day spent on the boat or at stops. If you’re someone who prefers a slow pace or more downtime, this might feel a bit intense.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included are the 3-island boat cruise, the visit to Gozo, and the Blue Lagoon swim stop. You also get to see several caves and scenic spots, all at a reasonable price.

Extras, like the open-top bus tour in Gozo, snorkeling equipment, or food and drinks onboard, are available at small additional charges. The tour provides the basics, but be prepared to bring some cash for extras, especially since some card terminals might not work.

Practical Tips for Your Day Out

• Bring plenty of sun protection: Sunglasses, sun hats, and sunscreen are essentials, as you’ll spend a lot of time outdoors.
• Wear comfortable shoes and swimwear: For walking around and swimming at the stops.
• Arrive early at Mellieha Bay to find the meeting point easily — look for Starbucks and the activity provider’s office.
• Bring cash for souvenirs or snacks, as card facilities might be limited.
• Prepare for a full day: The schedule is packed, so bring water and be ready for a busy, fun-filled day.

Onboard Experience and Group Size

The boat is designed to accommodate a good number of travelers, but reviews suggest that the crew is friendly and attentive. Many travelers appreciated the knowledgeable guides, which made the experience more engaging.

The tour is wheelchair accessible, but not suitable for people with mobility impairments, so plan accordingly if needed.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who want a full, active day exploring Malta’s surrounding islands without the hassle of organizing multiple trips. If you love scenic boat rides, caves, and swimming, this tour ticks those boxes.

It’s also a good fit if you’re traveling on a budget but want a comprehensive experience. Families, couples, and groups of friends will all find value here, especially given the optional extras that can deepen the exploration.

Final Thoughts

The Mellieha Bay: Gozo & Blue Lagoon Boat Tour offers a well-rounded snapshot of Malta’s stunning coast and islands. The combination of caves, historic sites, and relaxing swimming spots makes it a memorable day out. For the price, you’re getting quite a lot — especially with the knowledgeable crew and the chance to see several major highlights in one go.

It’s a tour that suits travelers who enjoy being on the water, exploring natural beauty, and don’t mind a busy schedule. If you’re after a gentle, slow-paced day, it might be worth considering some other options; but if you want a lively, scenic adventure, this one delivers.

FAQ

How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts approximately 6.5 hours, starting around 09:30 and returning by 16:00.

What is included in the tour?
You get a 3-island boat cruise, a visit to Gozo with free time or an optional bus tour, and a swim stop at the Blue Lagoon. You also see caves and scenic spots along the route.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not specifically geared towards kids, the tour’s outdoor nature and swimming stops can be enjoyable for families. However, consider the full schedule and activity level.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, sunglasses, a sun hat, and cash for extras.

Can I buy food or drinks onboard?
Food and drinks are available for purchase on the boat, but many travelers prefer to bring their own snacks and water.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, but it’s not suitable for those with mobility impairments.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if plans change.

Do I need to pre-book?
Yes, it’s recommended to reserve your spot in advance to secure availability, especially during peak seasons.

If you’re after a lively, scenic, and budget-friendly way to see Malta’s islands and coastline, this boat tour from Mellieha Bay is a solid choice. It packs in a lot of highlights and gives you the chance to relax and explore in one memorable day.

You can check availability for your dates here: