Comino & Gozo: Blue & Crystal Lagoons Cruise with Sea Caves

Traveling through Malta’s waters on a boat tour that promises a mix of scenic beauty, crystal-clear swimming spots, and a touch of adventure sounds like a perfect way to spend a half-day. This Comino & Gozo cruise, offered by Sea Life Cruises, is designed for travelers who love stunning coastal scenery, Snorkeling, and discovering hidden caves without breaking the bank. Whether you’re short on time or looking for an authentic Maltese experience, this tour offers a well-balanced mixture of sightseeing and leisure.

Two things we genuinely appreciate about this tour are its small-group atmosphere and the expert guidance. With just 25 passengers, it feels intimate enough to ask questions and enjoy personalized attention. The crew’s knowledge and friendliness shine through, making the experience both fun and informative. Also, the opportunity to swim in notably beautiful lagoons like the Blue and Crystal Lagoons adds a real highlight.

One potential drawback is the strict punctuality requirement—the boat departs exactly on time, so late arrivals won’t be accommodated. Also, if you’re hoping for a long day, this tour’s duration of 3-4 hours means you’ll need to prioritize what you want to see most.

This cruise is ideal for travelers who value authentic scenery, manageable group sizes, and a good price point. It’s perfect for those who want a relaxed, fun, and scenic experience without the hassle of large crowds or expensive full-day excursions.

Key Points

• Small group size for a more personalized experience
• Multiple scenic stops including lagoons, caves, and bays
• Expert crew guiding and sharing insights about the islands
• Crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling
• Affordable price for a half-day tour with many highlights
• Flexible options for half-day or sunset cruises

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Experience

This tour offers a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and exploring, all packed into roughly 4 hours. Starting from Mellieha, the vessel takes you on a scenic journey along the coast, with the boat’s comfort and intimacy making a big difference. You’re on a boat that only carries around 25 people—think of it as a floating social club with stunning views all around.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour kicks off at Sea Life Cruises, located behind the Cirkewwa Kiosk Cafe. After a quick safety briefing, the boat departs on a 15-minute sightseeing cruise along Malta’s rugged coastline, setting the stage with views of striking rock formations and caves. This initial leg is perfect for getting your camera ready and appreciating the island’s dramatic scenery.

Next, you’ll visit the Crystal Lagoon—a serene and less crowded spot, where you’re encouraged to swim or snorkel. With around 30 minutes here, we loved the way this stop offers a peaceful break, away from the busier lagoons. Multiple reviews mention how the crystal turquoise waters here seem almost unreal, with one traveler saying, “Swimming in the milky turquoise blue lagoon felt so unreal.” The shallow, calm waters make it an ideal spot for beginners or families.

Your journey then takes you to the famous Blue Lagoon, which is the main event. Known for its vividly clear waters, this spot is arguably the most photographed on the trip. The one-hour stop here allows plenty of time to swim, snorkel, or just lounge on the boat. Many reviews praise this segment, noting the spectacular views and how it’s the highlight of their day. One traveler wrote, “The visits to caves and swim in Blue Lagoon the highlight,” confirming its popularity.

From there, the boat heads toward Gozo Harbour, passing by scenic spots like Mgarr Harbour, where you can snap pictures of traditional fishing villages, and San Niklaw Bay for a quick scenic pass. These short stops and passes are appreciated by travelers for the gentle pace and opportunity to see more of Malta’s coastline.

The final stops include Santa Maria Bay, a peaceful beach ideal for relaxing or a quick dip, and the Santa Maria Caves and Elephant Rock, which are both noted for their striking natural formations. The caves are accessible for a quick visit and photo opportunities, while Elephant Rock’s unique shape makes it a popular photo stop as well.

What Makes the Stops Special?

Each location offers something different—whether it’s the tranquility of Santa Maria Bay, the impressive caves, or the rock formations like Elephant Rock. You’ll get approximately 30 minutes at Santa Maria Bay, giving you time to relax, swim, or explore on foot. Reviewers love the time given at each stop, mentioning that it’s just enough to enjoy without feeling rushed.

The Comino & Gozo Experience from the Water

We loved the way the boat’s itinerary combines scenic cruising with active swimming. The calm waters and beautiful scenery make it an ideal setting for just relaxing and taking in the views. Many reviews highlight the friendly and knowledgeable crew, noting how they shared interesting tidbits about the islands and their geology.

The snorkeling gear is available with a small deposit, and the crew is helpful in guiding beginners or experienced snorkelers. Several reviews mention how enjoyable the snorkeling was—especially in the crystal-clear lagoons—and how the floating noodles and swimming aids added fun and comfort.

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Comfort, Cost, and Practicalities

The boat includes shaded and sunbathing areas, plus toilet facilities, making it comfortable for all. Keep in mind, food isn’t included, but drinks are available for purchase, and bringing your own snacks is a good idea. The price of $33 per person represents good value, considering the number of stops, the quality of scenery, and the small-group atmosphere.

The tour’s duration is ideal if you’re on a tight schedule but still want a taste of Malta’s best spots. The departure is punctual—so arriving 15 minutes early is advised, especially since traffic on Malta can be heavy.

Authenticity and Quality of the Tour

Based on reviews, the tour consistently receives high praise, with a 4.8/5 rating from over 1,500 travelers. Many mention the expertise of the crew, especially the captain, and how they made the trip both fun and informative. One review sums it up: “Josh is a really well experienced boat captain and makes everyone feel welcomed,” highlighting the professionalism.

Passengers also appreciate the organized itinerary and the manageable group size, which makes the experience more relaxed than large commercial tours.

Tips for a Smooth Experience

• Bring cash for snacks, drinks, or snorkeling deposits.
• Arrive early to avoid missing the boat, especially during busy seasons.
• Pack a towel, camera, and sun protection for maximum enjoyment.
• Be aware of strict departure times; latecomers won’t be able to join last minute.
• If you want to explore on land, allocate some free time at stops like Santa Maria Bay or Comino itself.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise is best suited for travelers seeking a scenic, relaxed experience that balances sightseeing with swimming. It’s perfect for those who appreciate small-group environments, natural beauty, and authentic coastal exploration. Families, couples, and even solo travelers will find it manageable and enjoyable.

It’s not ideal for anyone with mobility issues, large luggage, or those over 70, as the boat and stops are designed for active enjoyment. Also, if you’re hoping for a full-day or comprehensive island tour, you might find this too short.

The Sum Up

This Comino & Gozo cruise offers a compact yet incredibly scenic taste of Malta’s coastline, lagoons, caves, and small islands. For just over three hours, you get plenty of opportunities to swim, snap photos, and relax in some of the most beautiful waters the Mediterranean has to offer. The small groups and friendly crew elevate this from a typical boat ride to a memorable, authentic experience.

Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or with family, you’ll appreciate the personalized service, well-planned itinerary, and stunning scenery. It’s a fantastic value for money, especially considering the quality and variety of stops. If your Malta trip includes a half-day slot and you’re eager to see some of its most iconic sights from the water, this tour should be at the top of your list.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is food included in the tour?
No, food isn’t included, but drinks are available for purchase onboard. Many travelers bring snacks or small meals to enjoy during the stops.

What should I bring with me?
A towel, camera, sun protection, and cash for snorkeling deposits or snacks. Bringing your own masks for snorkeling is optional but recommended.

Is the tour suitable for children or families?
Yes, it’s suitable for families, especially since children can enjoy swimming and exploring the lagoons. Just remember that very young children or anyone with mobility issues may find the boat’s activities challenging.

How long are the stops at each location?
Most stops last between 10 to 30 minutes, with longer breaks at places like the Blue Lagoon (about 1 hour) and Santa Maria Bay (about 30 minutes).

What is the group size?
The vessel carries around 25 passengers, making it intimate and less crowded than large group tours.

Are there any age restrictions?
The tour is not suitable for people over 70, or those with back problems or mobility impairments. It’s best for active travelers comfortable with boat rides and swimming.

Can I explore the islands on land?
Yes, some stops, like Comino and Santa Maria Bay, allow for brief walking or exploring on foot.

What about weather conditions?
The tour can change routes or stops due to weather. The boat follows departure times strictly, so be punctual and flexible if weather turns unfavorable.

This guided cruise to Malta’s turquoise lagoons, caves, and small islands offers an authentic, affordable way to soak in the island’s natural beauty. Perfect for those who want a relaxed, scenic adventure with friendly guidance—an experience that’ll leave you with wonderful memories of Malta’s coast.

You can check availability for your dates here: