Malta: Gozo, Comino and Blue Lagoon Cruise with Sea Caves

If you’re looking for a way to escape the crowds and see some of Malta’s less-visited but stunning islands, a boat trip to Gozo, Comino, and the Blue Lagoon might be just what you need. While Malta itself offers plenty of historic sites and bustling streets, this cruise offers a chance to relax, swim, and take in breathtaking views from the deck of a boat. It’s a day packed with sightseeing, swimming, and exploring caves—perfect for those who crave an authentic, laid-back island experience.

What we love about this tour is the combination of scenic cruising along rugged coastlines and the opportunity to visit two quieter islands. The boat itself is described as small and intimate, which helps avoid the overcrowded feeling you get on larger, busier excursions. Plus, the stops at the Blue Lagoon and Gozo’s capital, Victoria, provide a nice balance of nature and culture. On the flip side, a potential consideration is that the tour’s pacing is quite full, meaning you’ll need to be prepared for a busy day—especially if you want to maximize your time at each stop.

This experience is well-suited for travelers who appreciate scenic views, snorkeling, and quirky natural formations rather than just ticking off historical sites. It’s great for families, couples, or solo explorers eager to see Malta’s quieter islands without the hassle of arranging separate trips.

Key Points

• Authentic island experience: This tour offers a genuine taste of Malta’s more peaceful and picturesque islands.
• Variety of activities: Snorkeling, sightseeing, photo stops, and exploring caves ensure there’s always something to do.
• Convenient transport: Includes shuttle to Victoria, giving you some free time for self-guided exploration.
• Good value: The 6.5-hour itinerary covers multiple locations with live guides in English and Italian.
• Family-friendly: Suitable for all ages, with plenty of opportunities for swimming and relaxing.
• Limited time at each spot: Be prepared for a busy schedule, especially if you want to linger longer in Victoria or at the Blue Lagoon.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Boardings

You’ll meet in Sirens Quay in Bugibba, a popular seaside town, at 10:30 AM. Boarding closes at 10:00 AM, so punctuality is key. The vessel, named Seahorse Cruises, is a small boat, which visitors say contributes to a more intimate and less crowded atmosphere. This is a nice departure from larger cruise vessels, which can sometimes feel overwhelming.

The Scenic Cruise to Gozo and Comino

Once onboard, you’ll set off past notable sights: St. Paul’s Island, Mellieha Bay, and Smuggler’s Cove Cave. The landscape along the way is rugged and dramatic, providing plenty of photo opportunities. The cruise itself lasts about an hour, and with knowledgeable guides offering live commentary, you’ll learn a little about the surroundings while enjoying the sea breeze.

Stop in Victoria, Gozo

The first major stop is Victoria, the charming capital of Gozo. Here, you’re given about two hours to explore. A shuttle takes you into town, where you can snap pictures of the Citadel, wander the streets, or browse the local market for souvenirs like fridge magnets and artisanal crafts. Reviewers note that the guides are well-informed and friendly, making the visit feel welcoming and relaxed. One reviewer mentioned, “Had a really good time, well organized and looked after,” emphasizing the smoothness of the logistics.

While the free time might feel brief for some, it’s enough to get a quick taste of Gozo’s slower-paced life and iconic sights. For those wanting more, you could extend your visit on your own, as the tour includes transport to Victoria but leaves the rest to your discretion.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Blue Lagoon and Comino Island

After returning to the boat, the next highlight is the Blue Lagoon—famous for its crystal-clear waters and white sandy beaches. You’ll have about 1.5 hours for swimming, snorkeling, or simply relaxing on the boat or at the shore. Many travelers rave about the Blue Lagoon, with one reviewer saying, “Loved seeing the islands and the blue lagoon itself,” and noting the opportunity to snorkel in waters described as “crystal-clear,” which are perfect for underwater photography.

Remember, from May 2025, visitors will need a QR code to access the lagoon, which you can pre-book online. The tour staff will provide guidance on this, but it’s good to be aware of the upcoming requirement.

Exploring the Caves and Scenic Views

Next, the boat heads to the Santa Maria caves, where you’ll get a quick 10-minute stop for photos and sightseeing. The caves are scenic and dramatic, with impressive rock formations. One of the most talked-about sights is the Elephants Head, a natural rock formation that looks like… well, an elephant’s head. This natural sculpture makes for a fun photo opportunity and adds a bit of whimsy to the day.

Return Journey and Final Highlights

As you cruise back, the captain navigates through more caves and rock formations. Reviews mention that the small boat allows for a more personal experience, and the crew’s local knowledge adds a layer of authenticity. The whole day wraps up around 5:00 PM back at Sirens Quay—ample time for dinner or a stroll along the waterfront afterward.

What’s Included and What to Know

This tour offers a good balance of inclusions and extras. You’ll benefit from live commentary in English and Italian, which enhances understanding of each site. The boat provides essentials like snorkeling masks (with a small deposit), showers, toilets, and a sun deck for sunbathing. The diving platform is a bonus for those who want to splash around or try jumping into the water.

Food and drinks are not included, but there’s an opportunity to purchase on board, which is convenient. The tour also covers transport to Victoria in Gozo, making the logistics easier—especially if you’re not familiar with the island.

Practical Tips

• Bring cash as only cash is accepted on board.
• Pack comfortable shoes, a sun hat, sunscreen, and a towel—these will make your day more enjoyable.
• The tour is suitable for all ages, though it’s not recommended for wheelchair users due to the boat layout.
• Timing is tight, so be ready for a busy schedule if you want to see everything. If you prefer a more leisurely pace, consider extending your visits independently.

Authentic Traveler Insights

Multiple reviewers have highlighted the warm, family-run atmosphere, describing the boat as “not overcrowded” and the guides as “well organised.” One traveler called it a “pleasant” experience and appreciated the beauty of the sights and the opportunity to visit quiet areas away from larger tourist crowds.

Another review reflected on the value, stating, “Well worth going on the boat trip,” and mentioning the optional speedboat ride, which hints at additional fun if you’re craving more adrenaline. The feedback consistently points to a well-paced, scenic, and memorable day, perfect for those who value quality over quantity.

The Bottom Line: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This boat cruise is ideal for travelers seeking an authentic Maltese adventure that rolls natural beauty, light activity, and cultural stops into one manageable day. It’s particularly suited for those who enjoy snorkeling, photography, and exploring caves in a small, friendly group. If you’re looking for a relaxed pace, you’ll appreciate the well-organized itinerary and the chance to escape busy tourist spots.

However, if you prefer a slower, more immersive exploration, or have mobility concerns, you might want to consider other options or extend your time on each island. Still, for value-minded travelers wanting a comprehensive look at Malta’s lesser-known islands, this tour offers a memorable, scenic, and well-led experience.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 6.5 hours, starting around 10:30 AM and returning around 5:00 PM.

Where does the tour depart from?
It departs from Sirens Quay in Bugibba, with boarding closing at 10:00 AM.

What is included in the price?
Live commentary in English and Italian, snorkel masks (deposit required), shower, toilet, sundeck, diving platform, and transport to Victoria in Gozo.

Are food and drinks included?
No, meals are not included. Food and drinks are available for purchase onboard.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s suitable for all ages, but be aware of the busy schedule and outdoor elements.

Do I need a QR code for the Blue Lagoon?
Yes, starting from May 2025, you’ll need to book a timed slot via www.blcomino.com for free entry.

Can I spend more time in Victoria or Blue Lagoon?
On this tour, the time is limited, especially at Victoria and the Blue Lagoon, but you’re free to explore independently afterward if you wish.

Is the boat crowded?
No, reviews mention it’s a small, intimate vessel that’s not overcrowded.

Are there any accessibility issues?
The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, mainly due to boat layout and walking on uneven surfaces.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a sun hat, towel, sunscreen, beachwear, and cash for extras.

In all, this boat tour gives you a well-rounded glimpse of Malta’s quieter islands—perfect for those who want scenic views, natural beauty, and a touch of adventure without the hassle. Whether you’re snorkeling in the Blue Lagoon or photographing the cave formations, it’s a day packed with authentic experiences and stunning landscapes—a worthwhile addition to your Malta itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: