Malta: Gozo & Comino Islands, Blue Lagoon & Seacaves Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Malta and fancy a day out on the water that hits all the highlights, this full-day boat tour around Gozo and Comino might be just what you’re after. It’s a popular choice for travelers wanting to see some of Malta’s most striking coastlines, enjoy crystal-clear waters, and soak up a bit of local atmosphere—all without breaking the bank.

What we really like about this experience is how it combines amazing scenic stops with enough free time to explore on your own. Plus, the boat itself seems to be well-equipped, with features like waterslides and underwater windows adding to the fun. That said, it’s worth noting that if you’re expecting a quiet, relaxing day, the crowd size and logistics mean you’ll need to arrive early and stay flexible—especially during the busy season.

One thing to keep in mind is that food and drinks aren’t included, so packing a few snacks or some cash for refreshments is a good idea. This tour suits those who enjoy a lively, well-organized day out with a mix of swimming, sightseeing, and socializing—perfect for adventurous travelers or groups looking for great value with plenty of variety.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At just $28 per person, it offers great value considering the number of stops and activities.
• Diverse Stops: Blue Lagoon, Crystal Lagoon (seasonal), Gozo, and sea caves, with plenty of opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and photos.
• Comfortable Boat: Equipped with waterslides, underwater windows, shaded areas, and toilets, making a long day on the water more enjoyable.
• Flexible Itinerary: Includes free time in Gozo’s capital, Victoria, and visits to scenic caves—good for those who like a mix of guided and independent exploration.
• Weather Dependent: Stops like Crystal Lagoon are subject to weather conditions, especially in the off-season.
• Tour Size and Early Arrivals: To snag the best spots, especially on the upper deck, arriving early is recommended.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at What to Expect

Starting Point & Departure

Your adventure begins in Bugibba, a lively and tourist-friendly town. The boat departs from behind Loa Restaurant, a straightforward meeting point that’s easy to find. The group sizes tend to be significant, with reviews mentioning over 200 passengers, so it’s best to arrive early—about 30-40 minutes before the scheduled departure—to ensure you get a decent spot, especially on the upper deck.

The Scenic Cruise

Once aboard, the boat glides along Malta’s rugged coastline, offering views of cliffs, caves, and interesting rock formations. You’ll pass St. Paul’s Island and see the large St. Paul’s statue, which adds a touch of local character. The crew is often praised for being helpful and knowledgeable, maintaining safety while keeping the atmosphere lively.

First Stop: Crystal Lagoon (Seasonal)

In the high season (June to October), your first stop might be the Crystal Lagoon, a tranquil spot ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and even diving. The water here is famously clear, making it perfect for those underwater photo ops. The lagoon is usually quiet and less crowded, providing a nice contrast to the bustling Blue Lagoon. However, weather and sea conditions can influence this stop, so if the waters are rough or the temperature isn’t ideal, the tour might skip this part or find an alternative spot.

One reviewer noted that, despite some rough waters, the crew was quick to find a good swimming location, giving everyone plenty of time in the water. The waterslides on the boat add an extra bit of fun, with many describing them as a highlight.

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The Blue Lagoon Experience

Next up is the famous Blue Lagoon in Comino, arguably the star of the tour. You typically get around one hour to relax, swim, or snorkel. The boat will anchor in the middle of the lagoon, allowing you to dip into the turquoise waters and enjoy the scenic beauty. Some travelers say this is the perfect photo spot, especially with the boat floating right in the middle.

Reviews consistently describe the Blue Lagoon as breathtaking, with many recommending booking your access pass in advance to avoid missing out. You can relax on the boat or take a swim in the warm, inviting waters—it’s a highlight that many say is worth the early wake-up.

Exploring Gozo

After Blue Lagoon, the boat heads to Gozo, Malta’s smaller sister island. Here, if you opted for the land transfer, a shuttle takes you to Victoria (Rabat)—the island’s charming capital. The free time here is around three hours, so you can walk around the old citadel, enjoy the views from the ramparts, and soak in the local atmosphere.

The reviews suggest that a walk around Victoria is a worthwhile addition—visiting historic sites, enjoying local cafes, and seeing the city’s traditional charm. The guides are praised for being informative and funny, adding a personal touch to the experience.

Scenic Stop at Santa Maria Caves

On the way back, you’ll stop at the Santa Maria Caves for a quick photo and scenic view. This quick 10-minute stop is appreciated by travelers for the opportunity to snap some pictures of the caves and listen to the stories the guides share.

The Return Journey

The boat tour wraps up back at Sirens Quay in Bugibba. On the way, you’ll pass notable sights like the Elephant’s Head rock formation, which looks just like an elephant’s trunk. Many reviews mention how smoothly the day runs, with good organization and helpful staff making the experience stress-free.

The Experience on the Boat

The catamaran itself garners praise for being spacious, clean, and well-equipped. Features like waterslides, underwater viewing windows, and shaded areas add to the fun, especially if you’re traveling with friends or looking to make the most of the water-based activities.

Reviews highlight that the crew is friendly, professional, and often humorous, which helps keep the atmosphere upbeat throughout the day. The onboard amenities include toilets, drinks for sale, and audio guides available in multiple languages, enhancing the comfort and accessibility of the trip.

Timing and Duration

The entire experience lasts about 7 hours, with exact start times depending on availability. The itinerary is fairly packed, but the schedule allows enough time for photos, swimming, and exploring, which many find to be a good balance. It’s not a super relaxing day if you’re looking for total quiet, but it’s a lively and engaging way to see Malta’s coastlines and islands.

Cost & Value

At $28 per person, this tour offers solid value, especially considering the number of stops and activities included. The reviews frequently mention how much they enjoyed the trip for the price, with many saying it was “worth every penny.” Remember, food and drinks are not included, so bringing some cash or snacks is sensible.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of This Tour

• Arrive early to secure a good spot, particularly on the upper deck.
• Book your Blue Lagoon access pass in advance to avoid missing out.
• Bring sunscreen, a towel, and cash for food or drinks onboard.
• Consider packing a light jacket or pullover—especially for the final leg when it can get windy and cooler.
• If you’re prone to seasickness, taking medication like Dramamine is advisable, as the waters can sometimes be rough.
• If you want to explore Gozo more extensively, the included transport to Victoria is a bonus, but you can also choose not to take it and explore independently.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers who want a full day of scenic views, swimming, and island exploration at a budget-friendly price. It’s well-suited for those who don’t mind sharing the boat with a large number of people, as the reviews highlight the lively atmosphere. If you enjoy a bit of action, like waterslides and jumping into the sea, you’ll find plenty of fun here.

While not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, many reviews suggest it’s suitable for a broad age range, especially those comfortable on boats and in the water. Just keep in mind that the schedule can be busy, and weather conditions impact some stops, so flexibility is key.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Generally, yes. The tour involves swimming, snorkeling, and boat activities, which can be fun for kids who are comfortable in the water. Always check with the provider if you have specific age restrictions or safety concerns.

How long is the boat trip?
The total duration is about 7 hours, including stops for swimming, sightseeing, and free time on Gozo.

What should I bring?
Sunscreen, a towel, cash (for food and drinks), and possibly a light jacket for the final leg of the journey. Goggles or snorkels are also recommended if you want to explore underwater views.

Are food and drinks included?
No, they are not included. You might want to bring your own snacks or purchase something on board, as drinks are available for sale.

Can I swim in the lagoons?
Yes, swimming and snorkeling are major parts of the experience. The lagoons’ waters are clear and inviting, and the boat stops to give you plenty of time in the water.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes. Stops like Crystal Lagoon depend on weather conditions, and the captain reserves the right to cancel or alter the itinerary if seas are rough or if the weather isn’t suitable.

What’s the best time of year for this tour?
The peak season (June to October) offers the best chance for calm waters and good weather, especially for Crystal Lagoon. During the off-season, some stops might be skipped or replaced.

How crowded does it get?
During high season, expect a large group, often over 200 people, so arriving early is advised to get a good spot. The upper deck tends to be more popular for the views and sunbathing.

What’s included in the tour?
Sightseeing cruise, swimming at Blue Lagoon, optional visit to Gozo with transport, visit to the Santa Maria Caves, and access to boat features like waterslides and underwater windows.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a cost-effective, energetic way to see Malta’s coastlines, explore Gozo, and relax in turquoise waters, this Blue Lagoon & Sea Caves tour hits the mark. It combines scenic beauty, a lively boat atmosphere, and plenty of opportunities for fun and adventure.

While the large groups and weather dependence mean it’s not a totally relaxed, solitary escape, many travelers find it to be a day packed with memorable sights and good value. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy a bit of activity, want to see the iconic Blue Lagoon, and don’t mind sharing the experience with fellow travelers.

This tour offers a practical, enjoyable way to get a taste of Malta’s natural wonders—an experience that many reviews say will leave you with plenty of stories to tell.

You can check availability for your dates here: