Gozo/Mellieha: Comino, Blue & Crystal Lagoon Half-Day Cruise

Introductory Paragraphs

If you’re considering a boat tour around Malta’s stunning islands, the Gozo/Mellieha: Comino, Blue & Crystal Lagoon Half-Day Cruise offers a promising way to see some of the most iconic spots with ease and comfort. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a picture of a well-organized, small-group experience that balances scenic beauty with relaxed fun.

What sets this tour apart? For starters, it’s praised for its intimate size — only about 13 people on a cozy cruiser rather than an overcrowded party boat — which makes for a more personal, relaxed experience. Plus, the stunning views from the water, especially of the Blue Lagoon and Santa Maria Caves, promise memorable photo opportunities.

One thing to keep in mind is the need for a Blue Lagoon QR code in advance due to new legal regulations, which might require some prep work. This is a minor inconvenience but worth noting if you’re eager to swim there. This tour is ideal for travelers who want to enjoy scenic water spots with knowledgeable guides and avoid the chaos of larger, more commercial trips. It’s perfect for those seeking a peaceful, authentic taste of Malta’s natural beauty, especially small groups or couples looking for a more personalized experience.

Key Points

• Small Group Experience: Typically limited to about 13 people, ensuring a relaxed atmosphere and personal attention.
• Scenic Waterways: Offers spectacular views of Comino, the Blue Lagoon, and Santa Maria Caves.
• Inclusive Amenities: Pool noodles, masks for snorkeling, water, and a complimentary drink are all included.
• Flexible Stops: Ample time at Blue Lagoon and Crystal Lagoon for swimming and photos.
• Expert Guides: Multilingual hosts contribute to an engaging and informative journey.
• Legal Note: Access to the Blue Lagoon requires a pre-obtained QR code due to law changes.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

This cruise begins at either Cirkewwa in Malta or Mgarr in Gozo, depending on your starting point. The morning from Gozo is about an hour longer because of the travel time, but both options generally last around 4 hours, making it a manageable half-day escape.

The tour’s main draw is the small boat setting, which really elevates the experience. Unlike big party boats, this cruise feels more like a friendly, curated outing. The boat itself is about 45 feet long — small enough to feel cozy but spacious enough for comfort, with a sundeck and canopy for those wanting sun or shade.

First stop: the Blue Lagoon. This is the star attraction — a stretch of dazzling turquoise water, famous across Malta. The water here is clear enough to see the seabed from the boat, and the setting is postcard-perfect. As one reviewer notes, the boat’s size allows the guide to take you to quieter areas away from the large, loud vessels that often crowd the lagoon, making it easier to enjoy some peaceful swimming or snorkeling. The tour includes pool toys and masks, so you can splash around and explore underwater life comfortably.

The guide’s commentary adds to the fun, sharing insights about the caves and rock formations, like Elephant Head Rock and Santa Maria Caves. Many travelers rave about the friendly, knowledgeable guides who keep the cruise lively and informative. One reviewer mentions, “Sandra was super friendly,” highlighting how personalized service shines through.

Next, the Crystal Lagoon. You’ll stop here for about 45 minutes to take photos and swim again in the pristine waters. The backdrop offers fantastic scenery and underwater visibility. Weather conditions obviously influence the experience, but many guests find it a highlight.

Throughout the tour, the attentive crew keeps water topped up, offers snacks, and ensures everyone feels comfortable. The onboard toilet and the chance to bring your own drinks or snacks add to the convenience. The price, considering the inclusions and small group size, offers good value for what’s essentially a scenic, relaxing day on the water.

Itinerary Breakdown

Start Point:
In Malta (Cirkewwa) or Gozo (Mgarr), with pickups arranged. The morning trip from Gozo generally lasts an extra hour, but both routes get you to the action quickly.

Stop 1: Blue Lagoon
Most guests spend about 2 hours here. You’ll be encouraged to swim, snorkel, or simply relax and soak in the scenery. The lagoon’s famous for its serene, shimmering waters, perfect for a refreshing dip. Many reviewers mention how the boat’s small size allows the guide to find quieter spots, avoiding the large crowds typical of the Blue Lagoon.

Stop 2: Crystal Lagoon
A 45-minute stop with time for photos, swimming, and appreciating the area’s stunning natural features. It’s often described as a “beautiful backdrop” and a quieter alternative to the Blue Lagoon.

Return & Drop-off:
The tour concludes with a return to the starting points, Cirkewwa or Mgarr. The afternoon trips are slightly longer, giving more time at each stop.

What Travelers Love

Authentic and Personal: Many reviews praise the intimate size of the tour, with comments like, “The boat was the perfect size for the trip,” and “Sandra and her team were very nice.” Smaller groups foster a friendly atmosphere that larger parties lack.

Stunning Scenery and Clear Waters: The highlights are the Blue Lagoon and Santa Maria Caves, both praised for their beauty and photogenic qualities. Guests love that the boat’s vantage point offers a different perspective than land-based views.

Flexibility and Comfort: With shaded areas, a sundeck, and amenities like pool noodles and masks, passengers can focus on what they enjoy most — swimming, relaxing, or sightseeing. The complimentary drinks and the chance to bring your own make the experience feel relaxed and thoughtful.

Knowledgeable Guides: Reviews highlight guides like Sandra and Vincent for their friendliness and local insights, adding a layer of authenticity and comfort not always found on large tour boats.

What to Consider

Blue Lagoon Access: Due to legal regulations, access now requires a personal QR code obtained ahead of time. This can be an extra step, but the tour provider is transparent about it. If you can’t get the QR code, you’ll still enjoy similar scenic stops and swimming opportunities elsewhere around Comino.

Weather Dependency: Since the tour involves swimming and scenic stops, weather impacts the experience. Sunny days will enhance the beauty, but overcast or choppy waters may influence swimming conditions.

Suitability: The tour isn’t recommended for children under 10, pregnant women, or individuals with mobility issues or seasickness. The boat’s rocking movement might be a concern for some, as one review notes.

Price & Value: For a small-group cruise with inclusions like masks, noodles, drinks, and a knowledgeable guide, the cost is reasonable. You’re paying for quality, comfort, and a more personalized experience, which many travelers find worthwhile.

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Final Thoughts

This Malta boat tour offers an enjoyable mix of scenic beauty, relaxed pace, and small-group charm. It’s especially suited for travelers who value comfort and personal attention over large-party chaos. The stops at Blue Lagoon and Crystal Lagoon are highlights, with excellent photo opportunities and chances to cool off in clear waters.

The experience of exploring Comino by boat, with knowledgeable guides and the chance to swim in some of the most iconic spots, makes for a memorable day. Many reviewers mention that it’s a peaceful alternative to the busier, larger boat trips, making it ideal for couples, small groups, or anyone who appreciates a quieter, more authentic outing.

While the QR code requirement for Blue Lagoon access is an extra step, it’s a small inconvenience compared to the value of the scenic stops and friendly service. This tour balances beautiful scenery, good value, and a relaxed, intimate atmosphere — a wonderful way to see Malta’s best water spots without feeling overwhelmed.

FAQ

Do I need to bring my own drinks or snacks?
You are permitted to bring your own drinks and snacks onboard, and the crew also provides water and complimentary drinks, making it easy to stay refreshed.

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers the captain, crew, multilingual host, pool noodles, swim masks, water, a complimentary drink, and onboard toilet facilities.

How long is the tour?
The full experience lasts approximately 4 hours. However, the morning from Gozo may be about an hour longer due to travel time.

Where do I meet for the tour?
Malta passengers meet at 10:55 a.m. next to the main ferry passenger entrance at Cirkewwa. Gozo passengers meet at 10:15 a.m. in front of pontoon B/C at Mgarr Private Marina Harbor.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 10, as well as pregnant women, people with mobility issues, or those susceptible to seasickness.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel and beachwear. Also, consider bringing your own snorkeling equipment if desired (they provide masks but not tubes).

Is the boat comfortable?
Yes, the 45-foot cruiser has shaded areas, a sundeck, and enough space for small groups to relax comfortably.

Can I get a refund if I cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in your plans.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This cruise suits travelers looking for a quiet, comfortable way to enjoy Malta’s waters with a small, friendly group. It’s perfect for those who appreciate scenic views, swimming in crystal-clear waters, and guided insights without the noise and chaos of larger boats. It’s also a good choice if you prefer a more personalized, less commercial experience that highlights Malta’s natural beauty at a relaxed pace.

This small-group boat trip around Malta’s most photogenic spots offers more than just a scenic ride — it’s a chance to create memories in tranquil waters, with personalized service and awe-inspiring views that stay with you long after the day ends.

You can check availability for your dates here: