Malta: 3 Bay Cruise to Selmun Bay, Blue Lagoon and Gozo

Malta: 3 Bay Cruise to Selmun Bay, Blue Lagoon, and Gozo – A Practical Review

If you’re looking for a day that combines beautiful scenery, refreshing swimming, and authentic boat experience, this Malta cruise might just fit the bill. We’ve reviewed the details, and while we haven’t taken this exact journey ourselves, it offers a compelling option for anyone eager to see some of Malta’s most celebrated spots from the water.

What makes this trip special? First, the traditional Turkish Gulet setting creates a relaxed, charming atmosphere that’s often missing from modern speedboats or ferry rides. Second, the carefully curated stops at Selmun Bay, Blue Lagoon, and Gozo cover a range of Malta’s scenic and cultural highlights.

That said, keep in mind that the cruise can be affected by weather—one review notes it was “unfortunate” that it was windy, which may impact your experience. This tour suits travelers who enjoy unplugging from busy streets, love being on the water, and want a value-packed day exploring Malta’s coastline.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic boat experience: Travel on a traditional Turkish gulet, complete with spacious decks and elegant design.
• Multiple swimming opportunities: Swim and snorkel at Selmun Bay, Blue Lagoon, and Alfa Rock, with included snorkeling gear.
• Beautiful scenery: Expect stunning views of Malta’s coastline, rocky cliffs, and turquoise waters.
• Flexible activities: Snorkel, relax, or stand-up paddleboard—your choice during the stops.
• Well-paced itinerary: About 8 hours with enough time at each major stop to enjoy the scenery without rushing.
• Cost-effective: At around $51 per person, it offers a good value considering the inclusions and experience.

Introduction: Why This Cruise Might Be Just Right

Our review of this Malta day cruise suggests it’s a fine choice for travelers looking to combine leisure and scenery on the water. What we like most: the authentic boat vibe on the Turkish gulet, and the variety of swimming spots that keep the day dynamic. Plus, the opportunity to see Malta from the sea offers a different perspective than land-based tours.

One potential consideration? The weather can influence the experience—a review mentions a windy day, which might make some activities less comfortable. Still, with flexible scheduling and a friendly crew, you’ll generally find the day enjoyable.

This cruise is perfect for adventurers, families, or anyone seeking a relaxed, scenic escape. If you’re eager to snorkel, soak up the views, and feel the breeze, this tour could be a highlight of your Malta trip.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point and Departure

The adventure begins at a meeting point opposite Land’s End Boutique Hotel in Sliema, a popular hub for visitors. From here, you’ll board a traditional wooden Turkish gulet—think of it as Malta’s version of a floating lounge—ready for a full day of exploration.

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First Stop: Selmun Bay

Cruising along Malta’s coast, the first official stop is Selmun Bay, known for its calm, crystal-clear waters and lush surroundings. Here, you’ll have around an hour to swim, snorkel, or just relax on the boat. The bay’s rocky cliffs and greenery offer a peaceful setting, perfect for shaking off travel fatigue.

What to expect: We loved the way the water beckons you to jump in, and snorkelers will find plenty of marine life to observe. The review from a GetYourGuide traveler highlights it as a great spot for swimming despite some wind.

The Blue Lagoon on Comino

Next up is the iconic Blue Lagoon—surely Malta’s most photographed spot. Approaching through the shimmering turquoise waters, you’ll understand why it’s so famous. You’ll have two hours here, giving plenty of time to snorkel, paddleboard, or simply bask in the sun.

Why it’s special: The vivid colors of the water make it feel like swimming in a postcard. The lagoon’s shallow, clear waters are ideal for snorkeling, with a variety of fish that will keep both kids and adults entertained.

Hints for visitors: Bring your own snorkel gear if you want to explore underwater closely. Snacks and drinks are available for purchase to keep you energized.

Alfa Rock and the Gozitan Coastline

Leaving Comino, the boat heads toward alfa Rock near Gozo, known for its dramatic cliffs and scenic coastline. Here, you’ll have about 45 minutes to enjoy the landscape—some may opt for a quick swim or just photograph the stunning scenery.

Authenticity matters here**: The crew might serve drinks and share stories about the area, making this a laid-back yet visually impressive stop.

The Santa Maria and Elephant Caves

The tour then passes by the Santa Maria Caves and Elephant Rock, both popular for their scenic value and photographic appeal. These brief stops, around 10 minutes each, let you capture some memorable shots and appreciate Malta’s rugged beauty.

Long Cruise and Final Stop

The last stretch involves a more extended cruise segment (about 105 minutes) back toward Sliema, giving you plenty of time to relax, enjoy the views, or chat with fellow travelers. As the sun begins to lower, you’ll get a chance to reflect on the day’s adventures.

Practical Details and What’s Included

The tour costs approximately $51 per person and includes:

• A day cruise on a traditional Turkish Gulet—a spacious, comfortable boat that enhances the experience.
• Stops for swimming and snorkeling at three major spots: Blue Lagoon, Selmun Bay, and Alfa Rock.
• Snorkeling equipment and two stand-up paddleboards—ideal for active adventurers and those wanting a change from swimming.
• An experienced skipper and crew to ensure safety and share stories.
• Free Wi-Fi onboard—yes, even on the water, you can share your photos or check messages.

Note what’s not included: food and drinks (they are available for purchase), as well as hotel pick-up and drop-off. This means you’ll need to plan to get to the meeting point in Sliema—something to keep in mind if you’re staying farther afield.

What To Bring & Tips

Make sure you’re prepared with a hat, sunscreen, swimwear, and a towel. A camera is advisable to capture the gorgeous scenery, and comfortable footwear for walking around the stops (if you choose to disembark). Glass objects and pets are not allowed—common safety rules for boats.

Arrive 30 minutes early for check-in, and be ready for changing weather conditions—even sunny days can turn windy, so pack accordingly.

Authentic Experiences and Review Insights

From reviews, we see that knowledgeable guides and friendly crew make a real difference. A traveler noted that “we made the best out of a windy day,” emphasizing the importance of flexible planning and crew attentiveness. The views are consistently praised, with statements like “the scenery was mesmerizing,” highlighting how the natural beauty compensates for minor inconveniences.

While the overall rating is 4.5 out of 5, some travelers might find the weather a factor—so if wind is an issue, just be aware that it could affect swimming or the boat’s comfort. Still, the boat’s spacious deck and relaxing atmosphere tend to outweigh these considerations.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This cruise is ideal for adventurous travelers who enjoy being on the water, snorkeling, or simply relaxing with spectacular views. It’s a great choice if you’re looking for value, blending scenic stops with authentic boat life. Families with children, couples, and solo travelers alike will find plenty to enjoy, especially if they appreciate a laid-back, scenic day.

If you’re after a full day of sightseeing that isn’t rushed, and want a chance to swim in crystal waters, this cruise hits the spot. Just keep an eye on the weather forecast to ensure the wind won’t spoil your outing.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Experience

In essence, this Malta cruise offers a balanced combination of sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing on a traditional boat. The stunning scenery of Malta’s bays and coastline, paired with the authenticity of the Turkish gulet, creates a memorable day out.

It’s especially suited for those who value natural beauty over crowded tours and are happy to go with the flow—literally. The value is good, considering the inclusions and the chance to see three different bays and a Gozitan coastline in one day.

If you’re a traveler craving a laid-back adventure in Malta’s waters, this cruise could easily become one of your favorite moments on the island.

FAQ

What is the starting point of the cruise?
It begins opposite Land’s End Boutique Hotel in Sliema, a convenient central location.

How long is the cruise?
The entire experience lasts about 8 hours, with specific stops and cruising segments detailed in the itinerary.

Are food and drinks included?
No, these are available for purchase on board, but they are not included in the price.

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?
Snorkeling equipment is provided, but bringing your own ensures better comfort and fit if you have specific preferences.

Is hotel pickup available?
No, the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off; you’ll need to get to the meeting point yourself.

Can I paddleboard during the stops?
Yes, the tour includes two stand-up paddleboards available for use during the water stops.

What if the weather is windy?
Weather can impact the trip—if it’s windy, some activities like swimming might be less comfortable. The crew aims to ensure safety and enjoyment regardless.

In the end, this Malta cruise balances beautiful scenery, authentic boat charm, and adventurous stops—all for a fair price. Perfect for those wanting to see Malta from a different angle and enjoy a relaxing day on the water.

You can check availability for your dates here: