Gozo & Comino Islands: Blue/ Crystal Lagoons Caves Half Day Tour

When it comes to Malta, much of the attention goes to its historic sites and lively cities. But for those craving a taste of the island’s natural beauty, a boat trip around the smaller surrounding islands offers a delightful escape. The Gozo & Comino Islands: Blue / Crystal Lagoons Caves Half Day Tour is a popular choice for travelers who want a quick yet immersive experience of Malta’s stunning coastline and secretive coves.

What makes this tour stand out? First, we love the intimate size of the boat, which allows for close-up exploration of caves and narrow passages—something you can’t get with larger vessels. Second, the mix of scenic stops at the Crystal Lagoon and Blue Lagoon offers both tranquil swimming spots and picture-perfect vistas.

A potential consideration? Since the tour is a compact four hours, it’s quite fast-paced, so if you’re looking for a more relaxed, day-long adventure, this might feel a bit rushed. But for a brief taste of Malta’s marine scenery, it’s hard to beat the value and convenience.

This trip suits travelers who enjoy a combination of sightseeing, light water activities, and small-group comfort—perfect for those wanting an authentic, memorable experience without spending a whole day at sea.

Key Points

• Intimate boat tour allows access to caves and narrow passages larger boats can’t reach.
• Diverse stops include Crystal Lagoon, Blue Lagoon, Gozo harbor, and St. Marija Bay.
• All-inclusive with snorkeling gear, noodles, and toilet facilities enhances the experience.
• Advance booking for the Blue Lagoon QR code ensures smooth entry due to new regulations.
• Excellent reviews highlight knowledgeable guides, safe crew, and stunning scenery.
• Value for money is high, with multiple stops and activities packed into a four-hour trip.

The Itinerary in Detail

This half-day cruise offers a well-rounded peek into Malta’s coastal wonders. We’ll start from Mellieha, where the friendly team at Sea Life Cruises welcomes you on board a cozy, medium-sized boat. This smaller vessel is a real advantage, as it can squeeze into caves and tight spaces that larger ships shy away from—giving you an up-close look at Malta’s rugged shoreline.

Comino, the Star of the Show

The first stop is Comino, a tiny island famous for its rugged coastline and caves. Here, you get about 30 minutes at the Crystal Lagoon. This spot is renowned for its calm, clear waters—perfect for a quick swim or just floating with a noodle float, which is provided. The shallow, tranquil lagoon offers a peaceful setting after the boat ride, ideal for unwinding or snapping photos of the stunning scenery.

Next, the crew takes you to the Blue Lagoon, arguably the highlight of this tour. With roughly 1 hour of stop time, you’ll have plenty of opportunity to swim, relax, or explore the shoreline. Blue Lagoon’s famous for its bright turquoise waters, which look almost surreal against the rocky backdrop. When the weather is good, this spot becomes a magnet for boaters and swimmers alike, promising a refreshing break from the sun.

Exploring Caves and Coastal Views

While at Comino, you’ll also get a chance to enter some sea caves—an experience that travelers consistently praise. The small boat navigates into caves, revealing fascinating rock formations and hidden corners. The guide’s commentary helps you understand what you’re seeing, making it more than just a pretty view.

On the return trip, the boat glides past the Elephant Head Rock and the famous St. Nicholas Bay. These panoramic views are perfect for photography and appreciating Malta’s diverse coastline.

Gozo and St. Marija Bay

If you choose the full cruise option, the boat heads toward Gozo, Malta’s quieter sister island. Here, you’ll pass by a traditional fishing village, giving insight into local life. The final stop is St. Marija Bay, an unspoiled beach where you can stretch your legs, take a walk, or simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Practicalities & Regulations

Since May 2025, new rules require a free QR code to access Blue Lagoon—booking your slot in advance at www.blcomino.com is essential. If you prefer to stay on the boat during the Blue Lagoon stop, you can do so without the QR code, which makes the experience flexible for different preferences.

The entire cruise lasts about four hours, making it an easy addition to a day’s Malta itinerary. The group size is limited to 24 travelers, ensuring personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere. The price is around $36.30 per person, which is quite reasonable given the stops and activities included.

What Travelers Say

The rave reviews are a good sign of the experience’s quality. One guest, Lisa_H, called it a “fantastic tour,” praising the guide and the boat’s atmosphere. Sarah_S echoed this sentiment, highlighting the crew’s safety measures and the abundance of caves—“more than worth the money,” she said. Both reviews emphasize the knowledgeable guides and the chance to enjoy Malta’s natural beauty comfortably.

Onboard Experience

The tour includes snorkeling masks (with a refundable deposit), floating noodles, and toilet facilities, all of which add to the comfort and fun. You might find yourself chatting with fellow travelers or simply soaking up the scenery as the boat glides along.

Analyzing the Value

At $36.30, this tour offers a lot for the price. Multiple stops, guided commentary, snorkeling gear, and the chance to explore caves make it an efficient way to see Malta’s coast without the expense and hassle of a full-day trip. The small group setting allows for a more relaxed, intimate experience, and the flexibility to stay on the boat during certain stops adds convenience.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise appeals most to those who appreciate small-group tours, natural scenery, and light water activities. It’s excellent for travelers seeking a quick, scenic break from Malta’s urban attractions. While not suited for those with mobility issues due to the boat’s nature and the walking involved at some stops, it’s perfect for active families, couples, or solo explorers looking for a fun, authentic adventure.

Final Thoughts

The Gozo & Comino Islands: Blue / Crystal Lagoons Caves Half Day Tour offers a well-balanced mixture of scenic beauty, light adventure, and cultural insight. It’s a fantastic way to experience Malta’s coast in a relaxed, friendly setting, especially if you value personalized service and stunning vistas.

The combination of gorgeous lagoons, caves, and coastal views, along with positive reviews praising the knowledgeable guides and good value, makes this tour a smart choice for anyone wanting a meaningful yet manageable escape at sea. Whether you’re hopping into the water at Blue Lagoon or marveling at the sea caves, you’ll leave with plenty of memorable moments—and a camera full of incredible photos.

FAQ

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, for Blue Lagoon access from May 2025 onward, you must book a free QR code in advance at www.blcomino.com, choosing your preferred time slot.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 4 hours, from departure to return.

Can I stay on the boat during the Blue Lagoon stop?
Definitely. If you prefer not to swim or walk onshore, you can remain aboard, which requires no QR code.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes all sightseeing by boat, stops at the lagoons and caves, snorkeling masks (deposit required), floating noodles, and toilet facilities.

Is this tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
It’s generally suited for most travelers but not recommended for those with mobility impairments due to the nature of boat access and walking at stops.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and a hat. Snorkeling gear is provided, but feel free to bring your own if you prefer.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

To sum it up, this boat trip offers an efficient, picturesque glimpse of Malta’s coastal charms. It’s particularly ideal for those wanting a small-group, personalized experience that balances adventure with relaxation—all at a reasonable price. Whether you’re looking to splash around in turquoise waters, explore caves, or simply enjoy spectacular views, this tour makes for a memorable short escape.