Malta: Comino, Gozo, Blue Lagoon, Crystal Lagoon and Caves Tour

If you’re dreaming of a day exploring Malta’s most famous sights by sea, this tour might be just the thing. It promises a good balance of scenic cruising, swimming in the Blue Lagoon, and a taste of both Comino and Gozo islands—all for an affordable price. As someone who’s reviewed quite a few island adventures, I appreciate the practical aspects of this trip, like its price point and flexible options, but also recognize some of the challenges you might face.

Two things we really like about this tour? First, the stunning views from the boat and the opportunity to swim in the Blue Lagoon’s famously clear waters. Second, the affordable price (just over $35 per person) makes it accessible for many travelers. However, a potential snag is the crowds, especially at peak times, which can limit the experience if you’re hoping for solitude or a more relaxed vibe. Still, this tour offers a solid way to tick off Malta’s top sights if you’re okay with a busy, lively day.

This experience suits travelers who want value for money, love a good boat trip, and don’t mind sharing the space with quite a few fellow explorers. If you’re after a relaxed, quiet day, or have specific needs for accessibility or longer exploration, you might want to consider other options. But if you’re keen to see the highlights, swim in beautiful waters, and enjoy a fun-filled day, this tour ticks a lot of boxes.

Key Points

• Excellent value for a full-day tour covering two islands plus incredible swimming spots
• Beautiful scenery including caves, beaches, and crystal-clear waters
• Flexible options for exploring Gozo, including a shuttle bus to Victoria
• Crowded during peak seasons, so early arrival is recommended
• Facilities onboard include sun decks, shaded areas, toilets, and a cafeteria
• Good reviews highlight the organized nature and fun activities, like the water slide

An Honest Look at Malta’s Comino and Gozo Tour

When you’re planning a trip to Malta, a boat trip that covers Comino and Gozo offers a chance to enjoy some of the Mediterranean’s best scenery without the hassle of separate excursions. This tour is designed as a seven-hour adventure from Bugibba, mixing sightseeing, swimming, and a bit of island hopping. It’s a great way to maximize your day if you’re after variety, especially on a budget.

The Itinerary Breakdown and What You Can Expect

The journey begins early in the morning, with most travelers making their way to Bugibba Jetty, ready for a day at sea. The boat departs around 10:00am, cruising along Malta’s northern coast. This stretch alone offers a wonderful preview of Malta’s rugged coastline, with sights like St. Paul’s Islands and the iconic statue of St. Paul—a nod to the island’s biblical past.

Once out at sea, the boat takes you past several notable landmarks: Ahrax Cave, the Elephant’s Head, and Santa Maria Cave. These natural formations are a feast for the eyes, and the cruise allows you to see them from the comfort of the boat. The guides provide commentary on these sights, adding context and local insights, which many reviews found helpful.

The Blue Lagoon: The Main Attraction

The highlight of most trips is the Blue Lagoon on Comino. The boat arrives here after roughly an hour of cruising, giving you about an hour and a half to enjoy what many consider one of the most stunning bathing spots in the Mediterranean. The crystal-clear, turquoise waters make it perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or simply sunbathing on the deck. The onboard facilities are pretty decent: plenty of deck chairs (though first-come, first-served), shaded areas, a cafeteria, and a slide for jumping into the water.

Reviews consistently praise the Blue Lagoon for its breathtaking beauty. One reviewer summed it up: “The Blue Lagoon is absolutely stunning and we had a great time swimming and sliding into the lagoon.” Just note, during busy seasons, it can get crowded, which might limit your space to relax or set up your gear.

Comino’s Caves and the Crystal Lagoon

During the cruise, you’ll also cruise past the Santa Maria Cave and get a glimpse of the Crystal Lagoon, less crowded but popular among divers thanks to its deeper waters. The caves are a visual treat, and many reviews mention how impressive it is to see them up close from the boat.

Visiting Gozo

After the Blue Lagoon, the boat heads to Mgarr Harbour on Gozo, where you’ll have a three-hour stop. This is a good opportunity to explore the island independently or take an optional shuttle bus to Victoria, the island’s charming capital. The shuttle costs around 5 euros per person and includes a 1 hour 30-minute stop at Victoria, plus a short stop at a scenic viewpoint.

Many travelers appreciate the flexibility here—if you opt for the shuttle, you get a taste of Gozo’s main town, with time for wandering its streets, browsing local shops, or grabbing a drink. Others choose to explore independently, which is fine if you’re comfortable with transport arrangements.

The Return and Final Stops

On the way back to Malta, the cruise passes Xlendi Bay, a fjord-like spot popular with locals and divers. The boat returns around 5:00 pm, wrapping up a packed day of sightseeing and swimming.

What We Love About the Tour

The key selling point is value. For just over $35, you get to visit two islands, swim in one of the most iconic spots in Malta, and see caves and beaches that would be harder to access on your own. The scenery is beautiful, and the entire experience is well-organized, with most travelers noting how smoothly the day runs.

The onboard amenities—like deck chairs, shaded areas, toilets, and a cafeteria—make the long day more comfortable. Plus, the water slide and the chance to jump into the Blue Lagoon waters add a fun, playful touch that appeals to many, especially those traveling with friends or family who enjoy a bit of adventure.

The Reviews Tell the Story

One reviewer praised the “great stuff” and the affordability, calling the tour “quite comfortable.” Others enjoyed the informative commentary and the landscape views during cruising. The Blue Lagoon’s crystal-clear waters get consistent nods, with many saying it’s a highlight of their trip.

A Few Drawbacks to Keep in Mind

While the experience is largely positive, some reviews point out that peak season crowds can be overwhelming, especially at the Blue Lagoon. Arriving early is essential if you want a decent spot or to avoid the crush. Also, during busy times, the limited deck chairs and the crowd might detract from the peacefulness of the experience.

Another consideration is that food and drinks onboard are available but not included in the ticket price, so be prepared to spend extra if you want snacks or beverages. Some reviews also mention that the boat is older compared to others, but most travelers found it comfortable enough for the day.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re looking for an affordable, full-day excursion that covers Malta’s top sights and offers plenty of opportunities for swimming and sightseeing, this tour is a solid choice. It’s especially good if you enjoy boat trips with scenic views, natural caves, and beaches. The flexible options for exploring Gozo appeal to those who want to customize their day a bit.

However, if you prioritize peacefulness or are traveling during peak season, you might find the crowds less manageable. It’s also worth noting that this experience involves a fair amount of standing, walking, and being on a boat for several hours, so be prepared for a full, active day.

The Sum Up

This Malta boat tour offers a practical way to see some of the most beautiful spots in the islands without breaking the bank. Thanks to its well-organized itinerary, stunning scenery, and affordable price, it’s a popular choice among travelers who want to make the most of a day on the water. The chance to swim in the Blue Lagoon, explore caves, and get a taste of Gozo makes it a well-rounded experience.

It’s best suited for those who enjoy group excursions, lively atmospheres, and scenic cruising, but if solitude is what you seek, arriving early and being prepared for crowds will help. The included amenities and flexible options mean it caters to a variety of travelers, from families to solo explorers.

This tour delivers great value and a memorable day of island-hopping and swimming, making it a solid pick for anyone wanting a lively, scenic adventure in Malta.

FAQs

• What time does the tour start? It departs from Bugibba Jetty at 10:00 am, so plan to arrive early to secure a good spot.

• How long do we spend at each stop? You’ll have about 1 hour 30 minutes at the Blue Lagoon, plus 3 hours on Gozo (including a shuttle visit if you choose), and some cruise time between stops.

• Is there an option to explore Gozo without a shuttle? Yes, you can explore independently at the harbor, but the shuttle to Victoria offers a convenient way to see the main city if you pay the extra 5 euros.

• Are food and drinks included? No, but onboard options are available at reasonable prices; you’ll need to pay separately.

• Can I bring my own towels? Yes, towels are not provided, so bring your own if you plan to swim.

• Is there snorkel gear available? Rentals are available for 5 euros, with a 10 euro refundable deposit.

• How crowded does the boat get? During peak times, it can be quite busy, especially around the Blue Lagoon. Arriving early is recommended.

• Is the boat suitable for kids? The tour is generally family-friendly; kids enjoy the water slide and swimming.

• What if the weather is bad? The tour is subject to weather conditions, and if canceled due to poor weather, you can choose a different date or get a full refund.

• Is this tour wheelchair accessible? The provided information doesn’t specify accessibility details, so check with the provider before booking if needed.

If you’re after a lively, scenic, and value-packed day in Malta, this tour will serve you well. Just come prepared for crowds, and you’ll have a memorable adventure.