Gozo, Blue Lagoon, Comino, Caves & St Paul’s Islands

If you’re visiting Malta and looking to truly experience its diverse beauty, a boat trip to Gozo, Blue Lagoon, Comino, and St Paul’s Islands might just be the perfect day out. We’ve come across this tour and want to share everything you need to know—what’s great, what’s maybe less ideal, and who it’s best suited for. This is a solid option for those wanting a well-rounded, affordable excursion that highlights Malta’s scenic coastline, crystal-clear waters, and charming islands.

What really caught our eye are the small boat size—it’s less crowded and more intimate—and the chance to actually go inside the caves, which larger boats often can’t do. Plus, the onboard Wi-Fi and restroom make a day out more comfortable. The tour is particularly popular among independent travelers who love exploring at their own pace, with plenty of free time on land at each stop. But, it’s worth noting that the Blue Lagoon can get busy and overrun with travelers, which might influence your experience.

One thing to keep in mind is the price point of around $34.57 per person—a pretty good deal for a full-day adventure with so many stops and activities. But, the tour is primarily focused on the sights and the boat experience rather than detailed historical commentary, which might matter if you’re after a deep dive into Malta’s past. Overall, it’s a versatile option, especially if you want beautiful scenery, time in the water, and a taste of multiple islands—without breaking the bank.

This tour suits travelers who value value for money, enjoy swimming and snorkeling, and appreciate the ability to explore independently during land stops. It’s great for those who want to see Malta’s highlights in a relaxed, small-group setting, avoiding the crowds of larger, more commercial tours.

Key Points

• Small-group experience offers more comfort and access to caves and scenic spots.
• Diverse itinerary covering Blue Lagoon, Comino, Gozo, and St Paul’s Islands for a well-rounded day.
• Great value for money at just over $34 per person, including multiple stops and free time.
• Flexible land exploration at each stop to suit your interests and pace.
• Onboard amenities like Wi-Fi, restroom, and snack bar make the trip more comfortable.
• Potential crowds at Blue Lagoon might mean limited time or busy scenery, especially in peak season.

A detailed look at what to expect from this boat tour

Starting the Day: Boarding and Departure

Boarding begins as early as 09:30 am at L-Menqa36 Triq San Geraldu, San Pawl il-Baar, and the boat departs promptly at 10:00 am from the pretty seaside town of Bugibba. The small capacity of just 48 travelers helps keep the experience relaxed, and we found this to be a real plus—no overcrowding or feeling like just another face in the crowd. The crew is professional and friendly, and most reviews note the crew’s helpful attitude, which really adds to the overall vibe.

The Blue Lagoon at Comino

Your first stop will be the renowned Blue Lagoon on Comino. This spot is famous for its strikingly clear, turquoise waters and beautiful surroundings. You’ll have about an hour here, which many travelers find perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or just floating around and soaking up the scenery. The fact that the boat is small enough to enter inside the caves really sets this trip apart. Unlike larger vessels that stay outside, this boat goes into the caves, giving you great photo opportunities and a more immersive experience.

One reviewer shared, “Very nice and extensive tour, great experience and wonderful Malta, Comino and Gozo. We were a family with a baby, and they gave the baby special care.” That highlights how accommodating the crew can be, especially when traveling with young kids or those who might need a little extra attention.

Keep in mind, Blue Lagoon can be crowded, especially in peak season—it’s a popular spot. Some reviews mention that it felt very busy and over-commercialized. But if you prefer avoiding the crowds, staying on the boat and swimming from the side might be a better option.

Exploring Comino

After an hour, you can either stay on the boat or step onto land to explore Comino itself—there’s time to walk around if you fancy stretching your legs or taking photos of the rugged coast. The onboard snack bar offers drinks and snacks, which is handy after swimming or just to keep your energy up during the day.

Cruising to Gozo

Next, the boat, called The Mermaid, heads toward Mgarr Harbour in Gozo. The cruise into the harbor promises stunning photo opportunities of the Gozitan coastline. Once docked, you’re free to explore Gozo for about two hours. This provides ample time to wander through the island, whether that’s visiting local sights, grabbing a bite, or simply soaking in the atmosphere.

According to reviews, “The entire day ran smoothly with the crew being very punctual,” and many appreciate the free time at each destination. Some travelers note that two hours might be a bit limited if you want to see a lot, but it’s enough for a taste of what Gozo has to offer.

The Caves and the Return Journey

On the way back, the boat passes through the Comino channel, with the captain choosing between the Crystal Lagoon Caves or St Mary’s Caves, depending on the weather. These caves are another highlight, offering a different perspective of Malta’s coastline.

The Final Stop: St Paul’s Islands

Your last stop is at St Paul’s Islands, where you’ll have about 30 minutes. It’s a chance for one last swim or to climb up and see the small statue of St Paul. Many reviews praise this quiet, less crowded part of the trip as a peaceful ending. The horn sounds and it’s time to head back to Malta, with views of the coastline on the way.

The return is typically around 5 pm, wrapping up a full day of sightseeing, swimming, and exploring.

What’s Included and What You Might Want to Bring

For the price, this tour offers good value. It includes restroom facilities, onboard Wi-Fi, and the entry into caves (weather permitting). You can purchase snacks and drinks onboard, which helps keep the trip comfortable and enjoyable. Snorkeling equipment is available for rent if you want to explore underwater, but bring cash for deposits.

However, you’ll need to sign up for a Maltese Government entry ticket to access Comino, which is free but requires pre-registration online. It’s a straightforward step but one you’ll want to do in advance to avoid any delays.

What’s not included

• Lunch (though the onboard snack bar offers options)
• Snorkeling gear (available for rent)
• Any additional land-based excursions

The Experience in Practice

From what we’ve seen in reviews, most travelers enjoy the small boat vibe and the freedom to explore each location at their own pace. Many mention the crew’s helpfulness and the overall smooth running of the day. The timing seems well-organized, with enough free time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Some highlight that Blue Lagoon can be crowded and over commercialized, which might take away from its magic. But staying on the boat and swimming from its side can help avoid the worst of the crowds.

A common theme among positive reviews is the value for money—for just over $34, you get a full day with multiple stops, a scenic cruise, and opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, or just relaxing. Plus, the small group size is often praised for creating a more intimate, friendly environment.

On the flip side, a few reviews mention timing constraints—two hours at Gozo or 30 minutes at St Paul’s Islands might not be enough to see everything you want. Also, some travelers have experienced cancellations due to weather, which is a reminder that Malta’s weather can be unpredictable, particularly for small boats.

Who is this tour best for?

If you’re independent-minded, enjoy small-group trips, and love beach days with scenic views, this tour will suit you well. It’s ideal for those who like a relaxed pace and want to swim in famous spots like the Blue Lagoon. It’s also pretty family-friendly, especially since many reviews mention the care given to young children and babies.

Travelers seeking deep historical or cultural insights might find this tour less satisfying, as it’s more focused on scenery and beaches. For history buffs, pairing this with a different Malta tour might be worthwhile.

Final Thoughts

This small-group boat trip to Blue Lagoon, Comino, Gozo, and St Paul’s Islands offers a well-balanced mix of scenery, swimming, and exploration. You’ll love the personalized experience, the ability to go into caves, and the value for money. The onboard amenities like Wi-Fi make it easier to stay connected or share your adventures with friends.

While the Blue Lagoon can be crowded, staying on the boat or swimming from the side helps you avoid the worst of it. The stops at Gozo and St Paul’s give a nice taste of local flavor and scenic beauty, though time is limited. Overall, it’s a flexible, enjoyable way to see some of Malta’s best spots without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

If you’re after a budget-friendly, scenic, and relaxed day out that captures the essence of Malta’s coastlines, this tour could be just right. Perfect for travelers who enjoy swimming, caves, and small-group vibes, it’s a trip that delivers a good dose of Malta’s natural beauty without the fuss.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for families or children?
Yes, many reviews mention traveling with babies and young kids, with the crew offering special care and attention.

What should I bring with me?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, a towel, and possibly snorkeling gear if you want to explore underwater. Don’t forget your Malta Government entry ticket for Comino, and cash for snacks and rent.

How long is each stop?
Blue Lagoon: 1 hour, Gozo: 2 hours, St Paul’s Islands: 30 minutes. These times give you a good balance of swimming and exploring.

Can I explore Comino on land?
Yes, once docked at Comino, you can walk around and discover the island for about an hour.

Are there any hidden costs?
You might want to rent snorkeling equipment separately, and you’ll need to sign up online for the entry ticket to Comino.

What’s the weather like?
The tour operates in good weather—bad weather can lead to cancellations for safety reasons, and in such cases, you’ll be offered a different day or a full refund.

How early should I arrive?
Boarding begins at 09:30 am, and the boat departs promptly at 10:00 am, so aim to arrive a little before that.

In the end, whether you’re soaking up the sun at the Blue Lagoon or exploring the quiet corners of St Paul’s Islands, this tour packs a lot into a manageable day. It’s an accessible, scenic choice if you want a taste of Malta’s stunning coastline and islands without the fuss of large crowds or expensive excursions.