From Sliema/Bugibba: Best of Gozo & Comino Catamaran Tour VT

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2 An Inside Look at the Tour: What to Expect

Introduction

If you’re looking to experience the highlights of Malta’s smaller islands without the hassle of planning multiple trips, this Best of Gozo & Comino Catamaran Tour is a solid choice. Designed for those who want to combine sea adventures with some land exploration, it offers a relaxed way to enjoy the stunning coastlines, historic sites, and crystal-clear waters of Malta’s beloved neighboring islands.

We love how this tour manages to pack a lot into just one day—from cruising on a state-of-the-art, eco-friendly catamaran to wandering around the ancient Citadel in Victoria, Gozo. Plus, the visit to Blue Lagoon in Comino guarantees some of the most memorable swimming and sunbathing opportunities you’ll find in the Mediterranean. A definite plus is the flexible, unguided nature, giving you time at each stop to explore at your own pace.

However, a potential consideration is that the tour is unguided on land. If you prefer guided commentary or structured tours, this might feel a bit loose. Also, booking the Blue Lagoon Access in advance is necessary, which adds a small planning step. Still, if you’re comfortable with independent exploration and savoring gorgeous scenery, this tour suits active travelers, families, and anyone craving a balanced mix of sea, sun, and history.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Comfortable cruise with indoor and outdoor seating options, WiFi, and restrooms.
Visit to Gozo’s Citadel offers a deep dive into local history and stunning views.
Blue Lagoon’s turquoise waters provide some of the best swimming and sunbathing in the region.
Unguided land transfers mean you can explore at your own pace.
Eco-friendly catamaran emphasizes sustainability and comfort.
Flexible timing with morning or afternoon Blue Lagoon slots, but require pre-booking.

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

An Inside Look at the Tour: What to Expect

This tour is built for travelers who want a seamless blend of cruising and independent exploration. Starting from either Sliema or Bugibba, you’ll board a modern, eco-conscious catamaran that promises a smooth, comfortable ride along Malta’s northeast coast. If you’ve ever been on a boat with WiFi and restrooms, you’ll appreciate the thoughtfulness of this setup—plus, the chance to sit outside and enjoy the sea breeze or stay inside in air-conditioned comfort.

The Cruise to Gozo

The journey begins with a 40-minute ferry ride from Malta towards Gozo. The boat is spacious, with plenty of room to relax and take in the views. We’ve heard from past travelers that the sea tends to be calm, making the ride pleasant even for those prone to seasickness.

Exploring Gozo’s Citadel

Once at Mgarr Harbour in Gozo, you’ll be transferred via chauffeur-driven, air-conditioned vehicle to the Citadel in Victoria, which takes about 20 minutes. Here, you’ll enjoy about 1.5 hours of free time to stroll the ancient streets and marvel at the fortress’s commanding views over the island. Many visitors find the Citadel’s blend of history and panoramic scenery to be a highlight—the walls whisper stories of centuries past, and the vistas are truly worth the climb.

One reviewer pointed out the undirected nature of land transfers but appreciated the freedom to wander the Citadel at their own pace. With a comfortable, air-conditioned ride, you avoid the typical tourist bus crowds and can choose your own pace.

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The Return Cruise to Comino

Back on the boat, a 20-minute cruise takes you to the Blue Lagoon in Comino. The turquoise waters here are what postcards dream of—crystal clear and inviting. Travelers love having 105 minutes of free time to swim, sunbathe, or explore the small island independently. Past reviews mention stunning views and the “beautiful location,” perfect for unwinding.

To protect the environment and avoid overcrowding, you will need to reserve Blue Lagoon Access in advance online. This is a mandatory step, but it’s straightforward, and the QR codes make entry smooth. Remember, you’ll need to present your QR code before boarding and at the Lagoon to receive a wristband.

Here's some more things to do in Comino

Return to Malta

Finally, the 50-minute ferry ride back completes the loop, bringing you to your original departure point. The trip is rounded out with organized transport from the ferry terminal back to your hotel, whether in Sliema, St. Julian’s, Bugibba, Qawra, or Mellieha.

The Itinerary in Detail

The itinerary carefully balances time on sea and land, giving you enough to see and do without feeling rushed.

You can choose from two start points, either Sliema or Bugibba, which are both well-connected locations with plenty of nearby accommodation.
The ferry ride from Malta provides scenic views of the coast, perfect for photo enthusiasts.
On arrival at Mgarr Harbour, the scenic drive to Victoria’s Citadel** ensures a comfortable transition from sea to land.
The time in the Citadel lets you soak up history and culture at your own pace, with no guided commentary, which some travelers prefer for a more personal experience.
The short cruise to Blue Lagoon offers a refreshing change of scenery—expect stunning waters and plenty of opportunities to relax or snorkel.
Free ample time at Blue Lagoon in Comino means you can truly unwind, whether you prefer swimming, sunbathing, or simply soaking in the scenery.

Authentic Experiences & Reviews

Many past travelers highlight the stunning views and relaxing atmosphere as the tour’s biggest draws. One reviewer noted, “The catamaran was large and spacious, the sea was calm, and the location was beautiful.” They also appreciated the WiFi and restrooms on board, making the long cruise more comfortable.

However, some pointed out the lack of guided commentary on land, which could be a downside if you prefer detailed historical insights. Still, the self-guided freedom was seen as a plus for independent explorers.

The Blue Lagoon’s popularity is echoed in reviews—many mention the delicious water and inviting atmosphere, perfect for cooling off after a hot morning. Visitors also emphasize the importance of pre-booking Blue Lagoon Access to ensure entry and avoid disappointment.

Value for Money

At $51 per person, this tour offers a lot—cruise, transportation, and free time in two beautiful locations. It’s a good value when you consider the seamless logistics and the fact that it covers both islands in one day. The inclusion of WiFi and restrooms on board adds to the comfort, especially on longer stretches.

While food and drinks are not included, there are options for purchase onboard and in the stops, giving you flexibility to indulge or keep it simple.

Final Thoughts

This Best of Gozo & Comino Catamaran Tour presents a balanced, enjoyable way to discover Malta’s smaller islands without hopping from place to place on your own. It’s especially suitable for travelers who value independent exploration but want the convenience of organized transport and a comfortable cruise experience.

The tour’s highlights—stunning coastal views, historic Citadel in Gozo, and the clear waters of Blue Lagoon—make it an appealing choice. It’s perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers who appreciate a mix of relaxation and light adventure.

If you’re after a relatively affordable, hassle-free day trip with genuine scenery and a touch of local flavor, this tour will certainly deliver. The flexible schedule, eco-friendly boat, and scenic stops make it a memorable way to see the best of Malta’s smaller islands.

FAQ

Do I need to book the Blue Lagoon Access in advance?
Yes, you must reserve Blue Lagoon Access before booking your ferry. You’ll receive a QR code that’s required for boarding and entry into the lagoon.

How long is the boat cruise from Malta to Gozo?
The ferry ride from Malta to Gozo takes approximately 40 minutes, offering a calm and scenic start to your day.

Can I sit outdoors on the catamaran?
Absolutely. The boat offers both outdoor and indoor seating, so you can choose to enjoy the fresh sea air or stay in the air-conditioned comfort.

Is the tour guided?
No, the land transfers and sightseeing stops are unguided, giving you the freedom to explore at your own pace.

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers the catamaran cruise, land transfers in Gozo, free time at the Citadel and Blue Lagoon, WiFi, restrooms on board, and organized transport back to your hotel.

How long do we spend at each stop?
You’ll have about 1.5 hours at the Citadel and approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes at Blue Lagoon, providing ample time to explore or relax.

Are food and drinks available?
Yes, snacks and drinks are available for purchase on board and at the stops, but they are not included in the tour price.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, beachwear, a towel, sun protection, and a water bottle are recommended for the day.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children who enjoy boat rides and swimming will likely love this trip, especially with plenty of free time at Blue Lagoon.

Final Words

This tour is a smart pick for anyone wanting a convenient, scenic, and relaxing day exploring Malta’s neighboring islands. With its combination of sea voyages, historic sights, and crystal-clear waters, it offers good value and an authentic experience that captures the essence of Malta’s natural beauty. Just remember to plan ahead for your Blue Lagoon access, and you’ll be set for a memorable day in the Mediterranean sunshine.