Gozo Quad Bike Self-Drive Tour Including Comino Mini Cruise

Planning a trip to Malta and wondering how to see its neighboring islands? A Gozo Quad Bike Self-Drive Tour with a Comino mini cruise has been gaining attention, and from what we can tell, it offers a pretty unique way to explore. While we haven’t done it ourselves, the reviews and details paint a clear picture of what travelers can expect.

What immediately catches the eye is the adventure and freedom that comes with self-driving a quad along coastal and countryside trails. Plus, the chance to combine that with a boat cruise and swim in the turquoise waters of Comino makes it stand out.

One thing to keep in mind: this tour is quite active and involves a good amount of riding, so it’s best suited for those with moderate physical fitness and who are comfortable on a quad. If you’re after a relaxing day, this might not be your perfect fit — but if you’re craving a bit of adrenaline and scenic exploration, it could be just the ticket.

Key Points

• Adventure-focused experience with self-driving quad bikes along Gozian trails
• Includes scenic stops at key landmarks like Ta’ Cenc Cliffs and Dwejra Bay
• Mini cruise around Comino offers stunning lagoon views and swimming opportunities
• Guided experience with knowledgeable tour leaders ensuring safety and navigation
• Good value for money with all transportation, fuel, and safety gear included
• Weather-dependent activities like the boat cruise and swim stops

An Up-close Look at the Tour Itinerary

The itinerary is designed to balance adventure with sightseeing, giving you a chance to experience both the natural beauty and historical landmarks of Gozo and Comino. It starts early with pickup from your Malta accommodation — a big plus for convenience — and then crosses over by ferry to Gozian shores.

Pickup and Orientation in Mgarr Harbour

Your day kicks off with a pickup from your hotel or a nearby meeting point in Malta, followed by a ferry ride to Gozo. Once at Mgarr Harbour, you get a quick orientation and safety briefing. This part is important because it sets the tone for the day and ensures everyone knows how to handle the quad bikes safely.

The Quad Trail Begins

Once briefed, you hop onto a 2-seater quad bike, either riding solo or with a companion behind you. The driving experience is at the heart of this tour — a chance to steer your own vehicle along trails that wind through scenic coastal and rural landscapes. The breathtaking views of the Mediterranean are ever-present, and the guides are there to keep you safe and point out interesting sights.

Key Stop: Mgarr Harbour

Your first stop is Mgarr Harbour, where you get familiar with the bikes and set off on your adventure. This initial phase is about getting comfortable with the vehicle and soaking in your surroundings.

Ta’ Cenc Cliffs and Xlendi

Next, you’ll visit the Ta’ Cenc Cliffs, perched on the southwestern coast. These cliffs offer panoramic views of the sea and are perfect for snapping photos or simply admiring the natural drama of the coastline. The dramatic cliffs rising from the shoreline are a highlight, and many visitors find this spot to be truly photogenic.

A short ride brings you to Xlendi, a charming coastal town with a small bay and pretty cliffs. It’s perfect for a quick photo or just enjoying the relaxed vibe of this popular spot.

Historical and Natural Stops

The tour also includes visits to Knight’s Wash House, built in the 16th century by the Knights of St. John, and Dwejra Bay, a geological marvel with a rich ecology. The well-preserved washhouses carved into a cliff and the Dwejra area’s ecological significance add depth to the experience.

Another highlight is Inland Sea, a stunning natural lagoon connected to the sea by a 65-meter tunnel. It’s a fascinating sight, and if weather permits, you’ll also have the chance to swim in the lagoon.

Cultural and Scenic Highlights

Later in the day, you’ll visit the Basilica of Ta Pinu, a renowned religious site with a peaceful ambiance. Moving inland, Gasri Valley offers a tranquil setting with lush greenery and steep cliffs, perfect for a peaceful walk.

Continuing north, the Xwejni Salt Pans are an iconic Maltese sight, showcasing traditional salt harvesting. They’re not just scenic but historically significant.

The Hidden Gem: Qbajjar Bay

The tour then takes you to Qbajjar Bay, a lesser-known beach with crystal-clear waters. It’s a quiet spot for a quick swim or just relaxing by the sea.

The Final Stop: Comino and Blue Lagoon

The last part of your adventure involves a boat cruise around Comino, weather permitting. You’ll get to see the famous Blue Lagoon, with its vivid turquoise waters and stunning surroundings. The crystal lagoon is ideal for snorkeling or just lounging in water that looks like it belongs in a postcard. The Santa Maria Caves are also included, giving you a glimpse into natural sea formations.

Optional and Weather-Dependent Activities

The swim stop in the lagoon is usually during high season (April to October), but if weather doesn’t cooperate, the guides will take you to a nearby bay in Gozo instead. You also have the option to add a boat trip at Dwejra Bay for a small fee, but this is optional and depends on weather conditions.

What’s Included and What to Keep in Mind

This tour packs a lot into its roughly 7-8 hours. The price, at around $117 per person, covers the full-day quad experience, transportation, fuel, safety gear (helmets, hairnets, raincoats), and guidance. The packed lunch and mineral water are nice touches, especially after a morning of riding.

The ferry ticket to Gozo and the mini cruise are both included, offering excellent value considering the number of sights seen and activities covered. The mini cruise is a highlight for many, providing a relaxed boat ride with scenic views and swimming, although it’s weather dependent.

Practical Tips

• Drivers must be 21 years or older and hold a valid driving license — a must for peace of mind and safety.
• Passengers should be over 60 cm tall; children aged 5+ can participate but only if they’re comfortable on a quad.
• Wear suitable footwear like trainers, as you’ll be driving and walking quite a bit.
• While the tour is generally quite safe, the guides emphasize following safety rules — overtaking and dangerous maneuvers are strictly forbidden.
• The mini cruise and swim stop are considered bonus activities; no refunds are given if weather prevents these from happening.

The Experience from a Traveler’s Perspective

From the one review we found, it’s clear this tour is a hit: “It was sooo cool, I would recommend it to all my friends! The guides are super friendly, and the quad tour was amazing.” The reviewer also loved the music, the boat ride, and the swimming stop at the Blue Lagoon, which many find to be the tour’s crowning moment.

Another point worth mentioning is the small group size limit of 28 travelers, which helps maintain a more personal atmosphere and ensures safety and guidance are prioritized.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventurous travelers who enjoy outdoor activities and want to see the best of Gozo and Comino without spending hours in a car. It’s well-suited for those comfortable on a quad bike, with a moderate level of fitness, and interested in combining sightseeing with physical activity.

If you’re traveling with small children, be aware that the activity involves riding a quad and may not be suitable for very young or immobile guests. Likewise, if you have health conditions that prevent you from riding or swimming, this might not be your best choice.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

With a balanced mix of guided sightseeing, self-driven adventure, and scenic boat rides, this tour offers a compelling way to explore Malta’s lesser-known gems. The value for money is strong, considering all the inclusions, especially the mini cruise and multiple scenic stops.

For those craving adventure and outdoor exploration, particularly if you enjoy riding quad bikes and are comfortable on the water, this tour hits many right notes. The guides seem knowledgeable and friendly, adding a layer of reassurance for first-time quad riders.

On the flip side, if you prefer a more laid-back experience or have mobility concerns, you might find the activity a bit strenuous. Also, outdoor activities are always at the mercy of the weather, so some flexibility might be needed.

All in all, this tour offers a lively, scenic, and memorable way to see Gozo and Comino — perfect for travelers looking to add a bit of thrill to their Maltese holiday.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children aged 5 and over can participate, but it depends on their comfort on a quad bike and the activity’s physical demands. It’s not recommended for very young children or those with mobility issues.

Do I need a special driver’s license?
Yes, drivers must be 21 or older and must present a valid original driving license. Copies or provisional licenses won’t be accepted.

What should I wear?
Comfortable footwear like trainers is recommended. You’ll also be provided with helmets, hairnets, and raincoats if needed, so dress accordingly for the weather.

Is the mini cruise always included?
Yes, weather permitting, the mini cruise around Comino is part of the package. If conditions prevent it, there are no refunds, but alternative activities are usually arranged.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the activity, with a full refund.

How long does the tour last?
It runs approximately 7 to 8 hours, including transportation, stops, and activities.

What’s the main highlight?
Many travelers love the combination of scenic quad riding and the boat cruise, especially the swim stops at Blue Lagoon and the views of Ta’ Cenc Cliffs.

Are the activities weather-dependent?
Yes, especially the boat cruise and swim stops. The tour provider will reschedule or modify activities based on weather conditions.

Is this tour a good value for money?
Considering the comprehensive itinerary, all transportation, safety gear, and the mini cruise, it offers pretty good value — especially for adventure lovers looking for a full day of exploration.

If you’re after a lively, scenic, and engaging way to see some of Malta’s hidden corners, this tour might just be your best bet. Just remember to check your comfort level with riding and outdoor activities, and you’ll likely have a memorable day exploring Malta’s natural beauty.