Malta: 3 Bay Cruise to Selmun Bay, Blue Lagoon and Gozo

Malta: 3 Bay Cruise to Selmun Bay, Blue Lagoon, and Gozo – A Detailed Look

If you’re considering a day trip to experience Malta’s coastal beauty, a 3 Bay Cruise might be just what you need. From glistening waters and scenic stops to a laid-back boat vibe, this cruise offers a chance to see some of the most iconic spots in the Maltese archipelago. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, I’ve gathered enough insights from those who have to give you a clear picture of what it’s like.

What catches our eye about this tour? First, the relaxing atmosphere on a traditional Turkish gulet—it’s all about unwinding and soaking in the views. Second, the variety of destinations—each with its own charm, from the tranquil waters of Selmun Bay to the lively Blue Lagoon. The only thing to keep in mind is that the day can be quite weather-dependent—windy days might make the experience less smooth, but overall, it seems well-loved for its relaxed pace and scenic moments.

This cruise would suit travelers who want a combination of swimming, snorkeling, and sightseeing without the hassle of organizing multiple trips on your own. If you enjoy being on the water and appreciate a laid-back vibe with friendly crew members, this could be a perfect fit. Keep in mind, it’s a full-day outing, so it’s best for those comfortable with boat journeys and some sun exposure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Relaxed Day on a Traditional Gulet: The vessel’s spacious deck makes it easy to unwind while enjoying stunning views.
• Multiple Swimming and Snorkeling Stops: You’ll get to explore underwater life at Blue Lagoon, Selmun Bay, and alfa Rock.
• Diverse Destinations: From tranquil bays to scenic cliffs, each spot offers something unique.
• Flexible Tour Options: With 8 hours of cruising, there’s plenty of time for different activities, plus free WiFi onboard.
• Varied Group Sizes: The reviews mention a smaller crew and fewer passengers, enhancing comfort and enjoyment.
• Good Value for a Full-Day Experience: The price covers boat hire, snorkeling equipment, paddleboards, and crew services, making it quite a comprehensive outing.

An In-Depth Look at the Cruise Experience

Starting Point and Departure

You’ll meet your boat near Land’s End Boutique Hotel, just opposite the meeting point. The check-in begins 30 minutes before departure, giving you time to settle and get comfortable. The boat departs from Sliema, a popular starting point for boat trips, offering easy access and a lively atmosphere.

The vessel itself is a traditional Turkish gulet—think classic wooden lines, an open deck perfect for sunbathing, and enough space for everyone to relax. The crew is friendly and knowledgeable, ready to serve drinks and share stories about the destinations.

The Itinerary and Why It Matters

The cruise is carefully designed to maximize your time on the water and visiting each destination. It includes several “sightseeing cruise” segments, giving you scenic views of the coastlines and a chance to settle in between stops.

Selmun Bay (around 75 minutes)

This tranquil bay is the first stop, known for crystal-clear waters surrounded by lush greenery and rocky cliffs. It’s perfect for a refreshing swim or snorkelling with provided equipment. The calm environment makes it ideal for relaxing after a busy morning or just unwinding in nature’s lap. As one traveler said, “Very nice cruise, very good captain, few people so you can enjoy it!”

Blue Lagoon (about 2 hours)

No doubt the highlight of the day for many, the Blue Lagoon on Comino Island is famous for its vibrant turquoise waters. Here, you’ll love the chance to snorkel among colorful marine life or try stand-up paddleboarding. The clear, shallow waters make it ideal for all skill levels. You get quite a bit of free time—two hours—to swim or just lounge on the boat. Snacks and drinks are available for purchase, so you can stay energized while soaking up the scenery.

alfa Rock (around 45 minutes)

Moving on, the cruise heads to alfa Rock along the rugged Gozitan coast. Known for its dramatic cliffs, it’s a great spot for a short swim, sightseeing, or capturing photos of the striking scenery. Some travelers make a quick paddleboard trip here. It’s a less crowded spot, so the experience feels intimate and peaceful.

Santa Maria Caves & Elephant Rock (each about 10 minutes)

These quick photo stops are perfect for snapping memorable shots. The caves and Elephant Rock are scenic landmarks, showcasing Malta’s volcanic origins and rugged coastline. While brief, they add to the overall charm of the cruise, giving you beautiful views and plenty of photo opportunities.

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The Return Journey

After exploring the coast, the cruise spends around 105 minutes cruising back, allowing time to relax, share stories, and enjoy the sunset reflecting off the water. This part of the trip feels like a gentle wind-down— a good moment to appreciate the day’s highlights.

What’s Included and What to Expect

Your ticket covers the cruise on a traditional Turkish gulet, snorkeling gear, paddleboards, and the crew. Free WiFi onboard means you can share photos or check in with friends during the trip. Food and drinks aren’t included but are available for purchase—so plan to bring some snacks or buy onboard.

Practicalities and Tips

• Weather can impact the experience, especially windy days, as one reviewer pointed out. Pack sun protection and a light jacket just in case.
• The tour is approximately 8 hours, so bring a hat, towel, and camera.
• The boat is not a large party vessel—some reviews mention smaller groups, which makes for a more relaxed experience.
• If you’re traveling with children or prefer shorter stops, keep in mind the schedule is quite packed, but the stops are generally suitable for most ages.

Is It Worth the Price?

At its core, this trip gives you a full day of exploring, swimming, and relaxing without the hassle of organizing multiple excursions. The price covers a traditional boat, snorkeling gear, paddleboards, and a friendly crew, which makes it quite reasonable. The two hours at Blue Lagoon alone are worth it for many travelers, as it’s arguably the most stunning spot you’ll see in Malta by boat.

Balancing Value and Experience

While food isn’t included, the availability for purchase onboard makes it flexible—you can bring your own snacks or buy fresh drinks. The small group size and laid-back atmosphere are a big plus, especially if you prefer a more intimate experience rather than large tours.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise suits travelers who enjoy being on the water, whether you’re keen on snorkeling, swimming, or simply relaxing under the sun. It’s ideal if you’re comfortable spending a full day outdoors and want a balanced mix of active and chill moments. Those interested in scenic vistas, photo opportunities, and a taste of Gozitan and Maltese coastlines will find plenty to love here.

It’s also a good pick if you’re traveling with a group that values comfort and a friendly vibe, since the small group size keeps things cozy and personal. However, if you’re after a gourmet meal or prefer a more structured, guided cultural tour, this might not be the best fit.

Final Thoughts

This 3 Bay Cruise offers an enjoyable way to see some of Malta’s most beautiful coastal spots with minimal fuss. Expect relaxing hours on a traditional boat, plenty of opportunities to swim and snorkel, and gorgeous scenery around every corner. The experience is made richer by friendly crew members and the chance to unwind in natural surroundings.

While weather and wind can influence the day, overall, it seems to be a well-loved outing with a good balance of adventure and relaxation. For those who want a casual, scenic, and fun-filled day on the water, this cruise could very well be the highlight of your Malta trip.

FAQs

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts about 8 hours, starting and ending at the same point near Land’s End Boutique Hotel.

What’s included in the price?
The ticket covers the cruise on a traditional Turkish gulet, snorkeling gear, two paddleboards, and the crew’s services.

Are food and drinks included?
No, but they are available for purchase onboard. You might want to bring some snacks or drinks for the journey.

Do I need to bring anything?
It’s a good idea to bring a hat, swimwear, towel, camera, and sunscreen to stay comfortable and capture memories.

Is there any special equipment available?
Snorkeling equipment is provided, along with two paddleboards for those who want to try stand-up paddling.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans shift.

What about the group size?
Reviews mention a smaller number of people, making for a more relaxed and personal experience.

Is it suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the focus on swimming, snorkeling, and scenic cruising suggests it’s suitable for most ages comfortable on a boat.

What if the weather is bad?
Weather can impact the experience—particularly windy days—so check the forecast and be prepared for changing conditions.

Where do I meet the cruise?
The meeting point is right opposite Land’s End Boutique Hotel, and it’s recommended to arrive 30 minutes early.

If you’re after a laid-back day on the water that combines marine fun with scenic views, this Malta cruise offers a genuine and enjoyable way to experience the archipelago’s coastal beauty.

You can check availability for your dates here: