From Sliema: Gozo & Blue Lagoon in 1-day (CMO_TWO ISLANDS)

Planning a trip to Malta often means juggling iconic sights, but if you’re after a taste of the islands’ quieter, natural side, a day trip to Gozo and Comino offers a refreshing escape. This particular tour, operated by iSeeMalta, promises a scenic cruise, free time on Gozo, and a swim in the famous Blue Lagoon. While it sounds like a lovely way to spend a day, it’s good to approach this experience with both excitement and cautious expectations—especially given some mixed reviews.

Two things you’ll probably love about this trip are the breathtaking views along Malta’s coast and the opportunity to swim in the Blue Lagoon’s clear waters. The chance to explore Gozo’s unique charm at your own pace is another highlight. On the flip side, potential drawbacks include unpredictable weather and the sometimes disappointing experience due to cancellations or weather-related delays. This tour suits travelers who enjoy relaxed, scenic outings and are prepared for a flexible schedule that depends heavily on weather and operational conditions.

Contents hide

1 What to Expect from the Tour

2 The Practicalities: What’s Included and How It Works

3 Real Traveler Experiences: The Glass Half Empty

4 The Bright Side: What We Think Works Well

5 Who Should Consider This Tour?

6 Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

7 FAQs

Key Points

Scenic coastal cruise offers gorgeous views of Malta’s northern coast
Free time in Gozo allows personal exploration of this quieter island
Swim in Blue Lagoon provides a refreshing experience in crystal-clear waters
Weather can impact experience, especially on open seas
Operational delays or cancellations have been reported
Suitable for travelers seeking a relaxed day with natural scenery rather than structured sightseeing

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Tour

This full-day experience is designed around a seven-hour window, starting from the Sliema ferry terminal. The journey begins with a cruise along Malta’s scenic north coast, where you’ll get sweeping views of rugged cliffs, coastal villages, and possibly some local wildlife. The calm waters and scenic vistas make this cruise worthwhile even before reaching the islands themselves.

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

The Gozo Stop: A Taste of Malta’s Sister Island

After about an hour and a half cruise, you’ll arrive in Mgarr, Gozo. Here, you’re given the freedom to explore at your own pace. You might choose to wander through the charming streets, visit local cafes, or simply enjoy the island’s relaxed vibe. This free time is a bonus for those wanting to avoid overly rigid schedules, but it’s worth noting that the duration in Gozo is usually just enough for a quick visit rather than in-depth exploration.

One reviewer mentioned that their experience was marred by bad weather, saying, “The weather was terrible, and they kept us on the boat for two hours in Comino because it was raining heavily and everything was closed.” This highlights an important point: you need to be prepared for the possibility of delays or cancellations if the weather turns foul. Malta’s climate can be unpredictable, especially in off-peak seasons, so consider this before booking.

The Blue Lagoon: The Main Attraction

After exploring Gozo, you’ll head to Comino, famous for its spectacular Blue Lagoon. This stretch of water is praised for its crystal-clear, turquoise waters, and it’s the highlight for many travelers. You’ll have time to swim, relax on the sandy shores, and soak up the scenery. The water is generally calm and inviting, making it perfect for a quick dip, especially if you’re craving some relief from the summer heat.

However, some reviews warn that weather conditions—such as rain or choppy seas—can significantly affect the experience. One traveler mentioned, “The crossing lasted an hour and a half,” which can be rough if the seas are choppy. Several reviews also note that bad weather can lead to delays or even cancellations, with some travelers reporting that their activity was canceled altogether, leaving them without a clear plan.

The Practicalities: What’s Included and How It Works

The tour includes a scenic cruise, free time on Gozo, and the swim at Blue Lagoon. It does not mention any guided tours or activities on the islands themselves, so travelers should plan to be self-sufficient during their free time.

Meeting Point and Duration: The experience begins at Sliema Ferries, opposite Marks and Spencer, and lasts about 7 hours. Because the schedule is flexible, check the availability for the exact starting times when you book. The tour is also wheelchair accessible, making it more inclusive than some other options.

Booking and Cancellation: You can reserve your spot with the option to pay later, and cancellations are free if made 24 hours in advance. This flexibility is helpful when traveling in uncertain weather or if your plans change unexpectedly.

Important Regulations: Starting May 2025, you’ll need to secure a Comino island access ticket via a specific website. The government now limits the number of visitors, and some packages require booking specific time slots, especially for those with a Comino-only ticket.

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Real Traveler Experiences: The Glass Half Empty

The reviews tell a candid story about the unpredictability of this trip. One traveler said, “I didn’t like it at all. The weather was terrible, and they kept us on the boat for two hours in Comino because it was raining heavily and everything was closed.” Seasickness was also a concern, with another noting, “It was very choppy on Tuesday and we got seasick.” These are factors beyond the operator’s control but are important to consider, especially in less predictable weather.

Another review shared frustration over lack of communication, stating, “Activity was canceled. No information received from anyone,” highlighting that not all experiences will go smoothly or be well-managed. These reviews serve as a reminder that weather and operational issues can impact the quality of this tour.

Here's some more things to do in Sliema

The Bright Side: What We Think Works Well

Despite the mixed reviews, many travelers appreciate the stunning views along the coast and the refreshing swim at Blue Lagoon. The flexibility of free time in Gozo allows for a personalized experience, whether you prefer wandering through quiet villages, snapping photos, or simply relaxing on the boat.

The cost of this trip is generally reasonable for what’s included—access to two islands, a scenic cruise, and a swim. For travelers on a budget or those wanting a relaxed day without the pressure of structured tours, this can be a good value, especially if the weather cooperates.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is best suited for relaxed travelers who enjoy scenic views and outdoor activities such as swimming and exploring at their own pace. It’s ideal for those comfortable with potential weather variability and who understand that some delays or cancellations are possible. If you’re seeking a structured guided tour with detailed historical insights, this might not be your best fit. Conversely, if natural beauty and a laid-back day on the water appeal to you, it’s worth considering.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This tour offers a charming glimpse of Malta’s less crowded, natural side. The Blue Lagoon’s stunning waters alone make it a worthwhile stop for many. The scenic cruise along Malta’s coast is a highlight, providing excellent photo opportunities and a chance to relax.

However, the experience depends heavily on weather conditions. If you’re lucky with sunshine and calm seas, you’ll likely find it a delightful day. But be prepared for the possibility of delays or cancellations, and have backup plans just in case. The free time on Gozo is a major plus, allowing for casual exploration or simply lounging.

This trip suits easygoing travelers who prioritize scenery and relaxation over detailed sightseeing. It’s a simple, straightforward way to tick off two islands in one day, with the caveat that Malta’s weather can sometimes play spoil-sport.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for wheelchair users? Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it more inclusive for travelers with mobility needs.

What should I bring for the trip? Pack sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, a towel, and some snacks or water. Be prepared for potential weather changes, so a light raincoat might be handy.

Will I have enough time to explore Gozo? You’ll have free time, which is enough for a quick look or a brief walk around Mgarr, but not for extensive sightseeing.

Can I swim in the Blue Lagoon? Yes, the experience includes time to swim in the lagoon’s clear waters, assuming weather conditions are favorable.

What happens if the weather is bad? Bad weather can cause delays, longer stays on the boat, or even cancellations. Some travelers have had their activities canceled with little notice.

Are there guided explanations during the cruise? The tour does not specify guided commentary, so you may find that the experience is more about enjoying the scenery rather than learning detailed history.

How is the experience priced? The cost generally reflects the value of a scenic cruise, free time, and swimming, but it’s important to balance this with the possibility of weather-related issues.

To sum it up, if you’re okay with a flexible schedule and weather-dependent conditions, this day trip to Gozo and the Blue Lagoon offers a scenic, relaxing break from more structured sightseeing. It’s perfect for those who love natural beauty, quiet waters, and a laid-back pace. Just remember, the weather can change plans, so stay adaptable and enjoy the stunning views when the conditions cooperate.