Malta: Blue Lagoon, Comino, Gozo & Crystal Lagoon Sea Caves

Imagine a boat trip that combines turquoise waters, dramatic cliffs, charming caves, and plenty of opportunities to swim and relax. That’s exactly what Barbarossa Excursions offers with their Malta: Blue Lagoon, Comino, Gozo & Crystal Lagoon Sea Caves tour. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or just looking for a scenic escape, this experience packs a lot into a short 4-hour window.

We particularly love how this tour balances spectacular sights with relaxing swim stops, giving you a chance to enjoy Malta’s famous waters up close. The knowledgeable guides and the well-equipped boat make all the difference. That said, the trip can get crowded at the Blue Lagoon, and the boat ride itself isn’t suited for those prone to seasickness. This tour is ideal for travelers craving a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and some light adventure, especially if they want a hassle-free way to see some of Malta’s top coastal spots.

Key Points

• Beautiful Swim Stops: Enjoy 1.5 hours at Blue Lagoon and 1 hour at Crystal Lagoon for swimming and snorkeling.
• Expert Guides: Well-reviewed staff provide interesting facts and helpful service.
• Comfortable Boat: Spacious decks, rooftop sunbathing, and onboard toilets make for a pleasant ride.
• Flexible Experience: Multiple departure times and options to explore on land or just enjoy the boat.
• Value for Money: With scenic stops, water activities, and onboard amenities, this tour offers good bang for your buck.
• Crowd Management: Short stops and limited time at each site help avoid overcrowding, but Blue Lagoon can get busy.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting Point and Overall Structure

This tour begins at Mgarr Harbour on Gozo, traveling by boat to Marfa Jetty in Malta, with departures scheduled throughout the day depending on the season. In summer, you’ll have options at 8:30 am or 12:30 pm, while winter sees a single trip around 10:15 am or 11 am. The whole ride lasts about four hours, making it a perfect half-day escape with plenty of flexibility.

The boat, operated by Barbarossa Excursions, is described as comfortable and well-equipped, with deck chairs, a sun deck, onboard toilets, and a water slide (available on some trips). The staff receives high praise for their friendliness and helpfulness, with many reviews mentioning how they make the experience both fun and informative.

What to Expect: A Breakdown of the Itinerary

1. Depart from Mgarr Harbour on Gozo

The adventure kicks off with a scenic cruise across the Maltese waters. The boat’s spacious deck lets you settle in comfortably before heading out on the water.

2. Passing Key Landmarks

On the way towards Comino, you’ll cruise past notable sites like Santa Maria Battery, Elephant Rock, St. Marija Bay, St. Marija Caves, St. Nicholas Bay, and Mgarr Harbour. These spots offer excellent photo opportunities and a sense of the area’s natural beauty.

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3. Elephant Rock and Santa Maria Caves

The first stops involve brief photo sessions at Elephant Rock—a natural formation resembling, you guessed it, an elephant—and a quick visit to the Santa Maria Caves. While only a few minutes are allocated here, reviews suggest the guides often share entertaining facts, making the stops more meaningful.

4. Scenic Drive along the Coastline

The boat continues past Santa Marija Bay and Saint Nicholas Bay, providing a picturesque view of Malta’s rugged coast. Many passengers find these moments perfect for relaxing and soaking in the scenery.

5. Blue Lagoon – The Main Attraction

After about an hour and a half of cruising, the boat anchors at the Blue Lagoon. Expect around 1 hour and 30 minutes here—not enough to explore every corner, but sufficient for swimming, snorkeling, and taking in the extraordinary turquoise waters. “Relaxing trip, good value for money. Lots of fish to see when snorkeling at the Blue Lagoon,” says a reviewer, highlighting how clear the water and marine life are.

While the lagoon is undeniably stunning, it can get crowded, especially in peak summer hours. The reviews mention that the boat usually stays in the lagoon long enough for everyone to enjoy a swim, but it’s best to arrive early or be prepared for some hustle.

6. Crystal Lagoon and Sea Caves

Next, you’ll visit the Crystal Lagoon, a smaller but equally impressive spot with dramatic cliffs and vibrant marine life. Here, you’ll have about 1 hour to swim, snorkel, and enjoy the scenery. Many reviewers rave about the crystal-clear waters and the thrill of the water slide (if included in your trip). It’s a great way to cool off and enjoy nature’s simpler pleasures.

For those interested in caves, some excursion options include a speedboat trip to nearby sea caves, which is available as an extra at around €10 per person. If you’ve pre-booked, this adds another layer of adventure to your day.

7. Return to Mgarr Harbour and End of Tour

After the Lagoon visits, the boat heads back towards Mgarr Harbour, passing by Fort Chambray and giving final scenic views. The trip concludes with disembarkation back at the starting point or the Marfa Jetty if you’re coming from Malta.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Spectacular Swim Stops

The clear, calm waters of the Blue Lagoon and Crystal Lagoon are what most travelers come for. With over 2.5 hours of swim time combined, you get a decent opportunity to relax, snorkel, or just float and enjoy a day in the sun. Several reviews mention how much fun they had snorkeling among the fish or simply lounging on the boat deck.

Onboard Amenities and Comfort

The boat’s features—spacious decks, sunbathing areas, and onboard toilets—add comfort to the experience. The water slide (on selected trips) and the rooftop sun deck were particularly appreciated by families and sunbathers alike. Reviewers highlight how the crew keeps the boat clean and the atmosphere lively without being overbearing.

Knowledgeable Guides and Friendly Crew

Multiple reviews emphasize the guides’ expertise, with one reviewer praising how Mattia shared fascinating facts about the rock formations. The crew’s helpful attitude and willingness to answer questions seem to enhance the overall experience.

Value and Flexibility

At approximately €50-€60, the price includes boat transport, swim stops, and some onboard amenities. Many consider this good value, especially considering the scenic beauty and the relatively short duration. Additional costs like the caves trip (€10) or optional land visits can extend your experience if you want more.

Potential Drawbacks and Considerations

While the tour offers many positives, a few points worth noting are:

• Crowding at Blue Lagoon: In high season, this spot can get quite busy, which might make swimming or lounging less peaceful. Arriving early can help maximize your time.
• Seasickness: The boat ride can be choppy, especially in windy weather. If you easily get seasick, consider taking precautions.
• Limited Land Exploration: Unless you pre-book the optional cave trip or land visits, most of the experience is on the water.
• Time Constraints: Four hours is enough for a taste of the sights, but not for exploring Comino or Gozo extensively. If you want more time on land, consider longer tours.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is perfect for travelers who want a snapshot of Malta’s best coastal scenery without the hassle of arranging multiple excursions. It suits families, couples, and solo travelers eager to swim in the famed Blue Lagoon and get a taste of the island’s rugged beauty. It’s also ideal for those who prefer comfort and convenience, as the boat is well-equipped and the stops are well-paced.

If your main goal is to relax, take photos, and enjoy some quality time in the water, this tour hits the mark. However, if you’re seeking in-depth exploration of caves or land-based adventures, you may want to look into longer or more specialized options.

The Sum Up

For anyone wanting a well-organized, scenic boat experience in Malta, this tour delivers excellent value. The combination of stunning swim stops, comfortable onboard amenities, and friendly guides creates a memorable half-day outing. While it’s not without its crowds and weather considerations, the overall experience is lively, enjoyable, and packed with photo-worthy moments.

This tour is best suited for travelers looking for a relaxed, scenic escape—whether you’re visiting Malta for a short stay or just want to add a splash of adventure to your holiday. It’s a reliable choice that offers a taste of Malta’s natural beauty with enough flexibility to make your day special.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts around four hours, with specific departure times depending on the season.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket covers the boat cruise, swim stops at Blue Lagoon and Crystal Lagoon, onboard amenities like toilets and water, and a scenic cruise past landmarks.

Can I visit the islands on land?
Yes, land visits are possible if you pre-book tickets for Comino Island, with extra options like cave trips available at additional cost.

Is the boat comfortable?
Yes, reviews mention spacious decks, rooftop sunbathing areas, and onboard toilets. Some trips include a water slide for added fun.

Are there any age or health restrictions?
The tour isn’t suitable for those prone to seasickness and involves some walking on rocky terrain at stops. Assistance dogs are permitted.

Will I get seasick?
The boat ride can be choppy, especially in windy weather. Bring seasickness remedies if you’re worried.

What should I bring?
Pack a change of clothes, sun protection, a camera, towels, cash for extras like food or cave trips, and possibly snorkeling gear if you have your own.

Can I buy food or drinks on board?
Yes, there’s a full cash bar offering drinks, and snacks are available for purchase. It’s wise to bring your own if you have specific preferences.

What about the crowds?
The tour manages most stops efficiently, but Blue Lagoon can get busy, especially in summer. Arriving early can help you get more out of your swim time.

This boat tour offers a straightforward yet beautifully scenic way to experience Malta’s coastline. With friendly staff, well-planned stops, and the chance to swim in some of the clearest waters around, it’s a trip that many travelers find well worth their time. Just remember to come prepared, stay flexible, and soak in the stunning views—you’ll leave with plenty of memorable photos and stories.

You can check availability for your dates here: