From Sliema: Best of Gozo & Comino (CMO)

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2 An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Introduction

Our review of the “From Sliema: Best of Gozo & Comino” tour offers a practical look at this popular day-trip option. Designed for travelers eager to see Malta’s famed natural beauty and historic sites without fuss, this tour packs in a lot for a single day. We particularly appreciate how it combines seamless transportation, so you can focus on enjoying the sights, and the chance to snorkel in crystal-clear waters—a real highlight for water lovers.

One thing to keep in mind: the overall rating is around 3.3 out of 5, which hints that while many enjoy the experience, there are some hiccups—mainly related to guide consistency and booking regulations. This tour is best suited for people who love a balanced mix of scenic beauty, history, and a little adventure, and are okay with a somewhat structured day that keeps logistics simple.

If you’re looking for a hassle-free way to tick off Malta’s standout islands in one go, this tour might just be the ticket. Just be prepared for some variability in guides and some specific booking rules that could affect your experience.

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Key Points

Comprehensive day trip covering Gozo, Comino, and Malta’s Blue Lagoon
Includes ferry rides, shuttle services, and a boat cruise for easy logistics
Offers opportunities for swimming and snorkeling in picturesque waters
Visit the historic Cittadella in Gozo for a taste of local history
Booking regulations for Comino may require advance planning and specific time slots
Mixed reviews suggest some variability in guide quality and communication

You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Sliema.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point: Sliema Ferries

The journey begins at Sliema Ferries, a popular departure point chosen for its central location and ease of access. From there, you’ll board a ferry that glides across the water, offering a first glimpse of Malta from a different perspective. The ferry rides are scenic, giving you a chance to settle in and enjoy the sea breeze. These crossings are crucial—without them, visiting both islands would be a logistical challenge.

Blue Lagoon: The First Stop

The Blue Lagoon in Comino is often the star attraction of this tour—and with good reason. The boat cruise to this famous stretch of water lasts about 100 minutes, giving you enough time to relax, swim, or snorkel in waters famed for their crystal clarity. The experience here is all about soaking in the views and enjoying the calm, warm waters that make this spot so photogenic.

According to reviews, many travelers find the Blue Lagoon to be the highlight—“The trip was beautiful,” one reviewer wrote—but some also mention that if you’re not a fan of crowds, timing might be a concern. The lagoon does attract lots of visitors, especially in peak season, so arriving early (or late) might offer a quieter experience.

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Exploring Gozo: A Taste of the Past

Next, the tour takes you from Mgarr port to Gozo by ferry, where you’ll spend about three hours exploring. The highlight here is the visit to Cittadella, the historic fortress and town center perched high above Rabat. It’s an easy, self-guided walk—perfect for those interested in local architecture and panoramic views. We loved the way this stop combines history with breathtaking scenery.

During the free time, you can wander at your own pace through quaint streets, snap photos of the countryside, or grab a quick bite. However, one review noted some disappointment: “It’s a shame we booked with an Italian guide who then didn’t take place,” indicating that guide quality can vary, and some travelers may feel left to fend for themselves.

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Comino: Free Time and Swimming

After exploring Gozo, the boat takes you back to Mgarr, where you’ll transfer to a boat heading to Comino. Here, you get about one hour of free time—enough for a quick swim or a relaxing moment on the boat deck. The waters around Comino are known for their remarkably clear quality, perfect for a refreshing dip.

It’s worth noting that, due to new regulations effective from May 2025, visitors need to book a special access ticket to land on Comino. This means you might find some restrictions or additional planning required if you want to disembark or swim ashore. The tour includes a stop at the Blue Lagoon, which is a major draw for many, but some might wish for more time at this stunning location.

Return Journey: Seamless Logistics

The tour wraps up with a return shuttle back to Sliema Ferries, making the whole experience smooth and hassle-free. The included transportation means you won’t need to worry about navigating local ferries or finding your way back—it’s all organized for you.

The Value of This Tour

When evaluating this experience, consider what you’re paying for: transportation, guided (or semi-guided) visits, and access to several highlights in a single day. The price, when compared to the cost of doing these trips individually, can be quite reasonable—especially since it covers multiple ferry rides, boat trips, and transfers.

However, some reviews point out that guide quality can vary, with one traveler noting they booked a trip with an Italian guide who was only present for ticket sales, not guiding. This variability could affect the quality of the experience, especially if you’re hoping for more in-depth commentary or local insights.

Who Will Love It?

This tour suits travelers who prefer organized, all-in-one experiences with minimal planning, especially those eager to see both Gozo and Comino in a day. It’s also great for water lovers eager to swim and snorkel in crystal-clear waters, or anyone who appreciates scenic boat rides and a touch of history.

Who Might Want More?

If you’re looking for a more personalized or in-depth exploration—perhaps with a dedicated guide or more time at specific sites—you might find this tour somewhat rushed or lacking in detail. Also, if you’re sensitive to guide consistency or want to avoid booking extra tickets for Comino, you might want to explore other options.

Final Thoughts

This “Best of Gozo & Comino” tour is a solid choice for travelers wanting to tick off Malta’s top islands without the hassle of independent planning. You’ll love the stunning views at Blue Lagoon and the chance to explore Gozo’s historic heart, all bundled into a single day. The experience offers great value in terms of transportation and access to key sights, making it an efficient way to see the highlights.

That said, the variability in guide quality and the need to book separate tickets for Comino are points to consider. The tour is best suited for those who enjoy group excursions with organized logistics and are comfortable with a somewhat structured schedule.

If you’re after a scenic, waterside adventure with a touch of history and plenty of opportunities for swimming, this trip provides a practical and enjoyable introduction to Malta’s lesser-known islands.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
The tour is wheelchair accessible, but you should check with the provider about specific needs, especially since some sites and boat decks may have limited access.

How long does the entire trip last?
The tour runs for about one day, with various stops, ferry rides, and a boat cruise, making for a full but manageable day.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes return shuttle services, ferry rides from Malta to Gozo and Comino, a boat trip to Blue Lagoon, and a visit to the Cittadella in Gozo.

Are there any restrictions for visiting Comino?
Yes, from May 2025, visitors must secure a special access ticket to land on Comino due to new regulations. This might affect your plans if you want to disembark or swim ashore.

How much time do I get at each main stop?
You’ll have about 2 hours to explore Gozo, 100 minutes at Blue Lagoon, and 1 hour for swimming or relaxing in Comino.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour available in multiple languages?
Yes, the tour is offered in English and Italian, with live guides available in both languages.

This detailed look at the “From Sliema: Best of Gozo & Comino” tour should help you decide if it fits your travel style. It offers a nice balance of scenic beauty, history, and relaxation—ideal for travelers eager to make the most of a single day in Malta’s stunning surroundings.