If you’re visiting Malta and craving a day of scenic beauty, this boat tour to Gozo, Comino, and the Blue Lagoon offers a relaxed and authentic way to explore some of the archipelago’s most alluring spots. While Malta itself is full of history and lively streets, this cruise focuses on the island’s quieter, less crowded islands, providing a more peaceful perspective.
What we love about this experience is how it balances stunning scenery with accessible activities like snorkeling and sightseeing, all at an affordable price. For just $36, it offers a full 6.5 hours of adventure, including time on land and in the water. A potential consideration is that the tour involves a lot of movement, and some might find the schedule a bit tight, especially if you’re wanting to linger longer at certain stops.
This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a relaxed day on the water with plenty of opportunities for photos, swimming, and exploring. Families, solo travelers, and couples who appreciate natural beauty and straightforward excursions will find it offers great value — especially given the knowledgeable guides and breathtaking views.
Key Points
- Affordable Price: At $36, this tour packs in a lot of scenery and activities.
- Diverse Stops: Highlights include Gozo’s capital, the Blue Lagoon, and the sea caves.
- Snorkeling & Swimming: Equipment is provided, making it easy to enjoy the clear waters.
- Scenic Views: Expect panoramic vistas, rugged coastlines, and fascinating rock formations.
- Guided Experience: Live commentary in English and Italian enriches your understanding.
- Flexible Excursion: Suitable for all ages, with options to relax or explore actively.
An Authentic Malta Experience on the Water
We start our adventure in Bugibba’s Sirens Quay, where you’ll board the distinctive sailing vessel, ‘Seahorse Cruises’. It’s a cozy setup—only one boat—and it’s clear from the start that this is a straightforward, no-nonsense way to see Malta’s highlights from the water. Boarding closes promptly at 10:00 AM, so arriving early is wise.
The cruise begins with a sightseeing tour along Malta’s rugged coast, passing St. Paul’s Island, Mellieha Bay, and the Smuggler’s Cove Cave. The views here are what you’d expect from the Mediterranean: jagged cliffs, shimmering waters, and rocky coves. The guide’s live commentary in English and Italian helps you identify landmarks and learn about the islands’ geology and legends, adding a layer of context you might miss on your own.
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Exploring Gozo’s Charm
After about an hour cruising, the boat docks at Gozo, Malta’s quieter sister island. Here, a shuttle bus whisks you to Victoria, the island’s main town, where you can wander through the narrow streets, snap photos of the historic citadel, and browse local markets for souvenirs. The two-hour stop is a balance of free time and guided insight, giving you a taste of Gozo’s relaxed pace and authentic Maltese atmosphere.
Travelers often mention how the guides make the stop more engaging, sharing stories about Gozo’s history and culture. One review notes, “The guide was very knowledgeable, making the visit to Victoria a highlight.” It’s a great chance to stretch your legs and see a different side of Malta — less touristy, more local.
The Crystal Clear Blue Lagoon
In the afternoon, the boat heads to Comino, home to the famous Blue Lagoon. Here, the waters are famously transparent, perfect for snorkeling or simply floating near the boat. The tour includes a 1.5-hour stop, which is enough time to relax on the white sandy beaches, explore the shoreline, and take in the vivid colors of the water.
You’ll also have the option to snorkel with provided masks, although a small deposit is required. Many travelers find the Blue Lagoon to be a peaceful oasis, with some describing it as “a postcard come to life.” The calm waters make it accessible for all ages and swimming abilities, making it an ideal spot for families or anyone wanting a break from sightseeing.
Exploring the Caves and Rock Formations
As the cruise continues back toward Malta, it passes by Santa Maria Caves, a highlight for many. The crew points out the Elephants Head, a remarkable rock formation resembling, well, an elephant’s head, and other scenic geological features. You can take photos from the boat or, if time allows, explore the caves on a quick stop. The overall experience is about appreciating the natural artistry shaped by the sea and wind.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Return and Final Highlights
On the way back, the boat cruises past additional formations like the Siren’s Rock and the Scenic coastline, rounding out a full day of scenic beauty. The tour concludes around 5:00 PM back at Sirens Quay, giving you ample time to reflect, grab a bite, or continue exploring Malta on your own.
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The Practicalities and Value
This tour is straightforward but well thought-out. The price of $36 covers almost everything — guided commentary, snorkeling gear, and stops at key locations. Food and drinks are available for purchase onboard, so you don’t need to bring a picnic, though bringing cash is recommended since only cash is accepted for onboard purchases.
The duration of 6.5 hours strikes a good balance; it’s enough time to see the highlights without feeling rushed. The tour runs with a live guide in both English and Italian, which enhances the experience significantly. You’ll get a richer understanding of the islands’ geography and legends, making the scenery more meaningful.
A few reviews mention the mild limitations: the schedule can be tight, especially if you want to linger longer at certain spots. Also, the QR code requirement for Blue Lagoon visits starting May 2025 is a new law, so if you plan to get off at the lagoon, make sure to book your time slot in advance.
The boardings process is smooth, but arriving early is wise to avoid missing the boat, especially since boarding closes at 10:00 AM. The boat itself isn’t large, so group sizes are manageable, making it easier to stay close to the guide and ask questions.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience is perfect for those seeking a relaxed, scenic day away from the busy city streets of Malta. It’s suited for families, solo travelers, and couples alike, especially if you enjoy outdoor activities, scenic views, and boat rides. The stops at the Blue Lagoon and Gozo are highlights, but the real charm lies in the combination of the journey and the natural beauty you’ll witness along the way.
If you’re on a budget but want to see the islands from a different perspective, this tour offers exceptional value. It’s also a good choice for travelers who prefer guided commentary to enhance their understanding of Malta’s geography and legend.
However, if you’re looking for a more in-depth exploration of specific sites or prefer more time ashore, you might find this tour a bit limited. It’s best viewed as a scenic sampler, not a comprehensive land tour.
Final Thoughts
This Malta cruise to Gozo, Comino, and the Blue Lagoon offers a beautiful introduction to Malta’s lesser-known islands. For a modest price, you get a well-organized, scenic, and activity-packed day that balances relaxation with exploration. The knowledgeable guides and stunning vistas make it a worthwhile addition to your Malta itinerary.
While it’s not the most comprehensive land tour, it excels as a breezy, scenic escape that allows you to experience Malta’s natural beauty from the water. The stops are well-paced, and the snorkeling options add a fun, interactive element. It’s especially suitable for travelers who want a laid-back day, some water fun, and memorable views.
In short, if you’re after a taste of Malta’s natural wonders on the water—without breaking the bank—this cruise is a solid choice that maximizes scenery, authenticity, and value.
FAQ
- What is the starting location of the tour? It begins at Sirens Quay in St Pauls Bay, Malta, with boarding closing at 10:00 AM.
- How long does the tour last? The entire experience runs approximately 6.5 hours, ending back at Sirens Quay around 5:00 PM.
- Are there stops at Gozos or Comino? Yes, there are two main stops: a sightseeing stop in Gozo and a 1.5-hour visit to the Blue Lagoon on Comino.
- What activities are included? You can enjoy sightseeing, swimming, snorkeling, and exploring caves. Snorkeling masks are provided, with a small deposit required.
- Is food available on board? Food and drinks can be purchased during the trip; no included meals.
- Do I need to bring anything? Comfortable shoes, sun protection, a towel, beachwear, and cash are recommended.
- Is the tour suitable for children? Yes, it’s suitable for all ages, but be aware the schedule is quite full.
- Are there any restrictions? The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users. Only cash is accepted onboard.
- What is the law change regarding Blue Lagoon visits? From May 2025, you need a QR code for entry at the Blue Lagoon, which must be booked in advance from www.blcomino.com.
- Can I cancel? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
This cruise offers a practical, scenic way to see Malta’s lesser-known islands without fuss—an ideal choice for travelers wanting a taste of the real Malta from the sea.
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