Mellieha: Gozo, Comino, Sea Caves, and Blue Lagoon Cruise

If you’re looking to make the most of your time in Malta without spending a fortune, this half-day boat tour offers a fantastic way to see some of the most iconic spots in a relaxed, enjoyable setting. From crystal-clear lagoons to impressive sea caves, this trip is designed for travelers who love a blend of scenic beauty, authentic experiences, and a touch of adventure.

What we particularly love about this cruise is how it balances stunning natural sights with a comfortable, well-organized experience. The expert guides keep the trip lively and informative, and the various stop-offs give plenty of time for swimming, snorkeling, and photography. On the downside, it’s a shorter tour, so if you’re craving a full-day adventure, this might feel a bit brief. Still, for those wanting a taste of Malta’s best coastal highlights, it hits the spot perfectly.

This tour is ideal for travelers who enjoy nature, water activities, and casual sightseeing. It’s especially great if you’re traveling with friends or family and want a fun, hassle-free way to explore Malta’s coast without the need for complicated planning or expensive excursions.

Key Points

• Authentic coastal experience: Cruise along Malta’s scenic coastlines and visit some of the most iconic spots with a knowledgeable captain.
• Swim and snorkel in crystal-clear waters: Stops at Blue Lagoon and Crystal Lagoon provide opportunities for memorable swims.
• Visit famous sights: Explore the Santa Maria Caves, Elephant Rock, and see the Comino Tower from the water.
• Great value: Includes multiple stops, snorkeling gear, and a lively, well-reviewed guide.
• Comfortable boat: Small, personable vessel that’s easy to get around on and perfect for a more intimate experience.
• Flexible options: Check availability for different starting times, with cancellations up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Departure

Your adventure begins at the Cirkewwa Cafe, a convenient spot on the northern coast of Malta, from where your boat departs. It’s a straightforward meeting point, especially if you’re staying in Mellieha or nearby towns. The vessel is described as spacious and comfortable, which means you won’t feel cramped even during the 4-hour duration.

The Cruise: A Smooth Ride with Plenty of Highlights

Once aboard, the captain takes you past the Comino Tower, an intriguing piece of film history, famously featured in “The Count of Monte Cristo.” This sets the tone for a scenic journey along the coast, with plenty of opportunities for photos and soaking in views of Malta’s rugged shoreline.

The first major stop is the Crystal Lagoon on Comino’s western side. Here, you’ll have roughly 50 minutes for swimming, snorkeling, or lounging on the rocks. Many reviews highlight how crystalline the waters are—bright turquoise and remarkably clear, making it a favorite for underwater photos and playful swims. Some travelers even comment on how the lagoon’s beauty justifies the trip on its own.

Next, the boat heads to the Blue Lagoon, known worldwide for its dazzling shades of blue. The shallow, sandy seabed makes this a perfect spot for easy swimming and snorkeling, even for beginners. During the 50-minute stop, many visitors mention how relaxing and scenic it is, often citing it as the “highlight” of the tour. There’s ample opportunity to float, explore marine life, or just soak up the sun on the rocks. The reviews are full of praise for the beautiful colors and the peaceful atmosphere.

Exploring the Coast of Gozo

After the lagoon stops, your crew will guide you past Gozitan sights such as Gebel tal Halfa, known as the “promising rock,” which offers a more rugged, untouched coastal landscape. This stretch provides a different perspective—more natural and less touristy—ideal for photography and simply soaking in Malta’s varied scenery.

The boat then makes a quick visit to the Santa Maria Caves and the Elephant Rock, both excellent photo opportunities. Reviews mention that these stops are brief but well worth it, giving travelers a chance to snap memorable pictures and marvel at the natural formations.

More Great Tours Nearby

Water Activities and Comfort

Part of the charm is the snorkeling gear available for rent (€5), which many reviewers say enhances the experience—fishes are visible in the clear waters, making for an enjoyable underwater adventure. The boat also provides floating noodles and life jackets, adding to your comfort and safety.

Practical Details and What’s Included

This tour’s value is boosted by its inclusions: knowledgeable guides, snorkeling gear rental, toilet facilities, and a small, personable boat that promotes a friendly atmosphere. The guides have received praise for their descriptive commentary and friendly demeanor—some reviews even mention how guides go above and beyond.

However, extras like food and drinks are not included but are available for purchase onboard. Travelers often mention bringing their own sunscreen, water, and snacks for the best experience.

The Return and Overall Flow

After the final stop at the Santa Maria Caves, the boat heads back to Cirkewwa, completing a well-paced four-hour journey. The quick 10-15 minute cruise back provides plenty of time to reflect on the highlights and share photos with fellow travelers.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is especially perfect for travelers seeking a relaxed, scenic half-day trip that’s family-friendly and offers lots of water-based fun. It suits those who appreciate authentic natural beauty over heavily commercialized activities. If you’re keen on snorkeling, photography, or just lounging in breathtaking surroundings, you’ll find plenty to love here.

It’s also a solid choice for first-time visitors to Malta wanting a taste of its coastal charm without the fuss of full-day tours. The small boat size and expert guides make it a comfortable and engaging experience.

Who Might Want to Consider Other Options

• If you’re looking for a full-day adventure or a more active, physically demanding tour, this brief cruise might feel a bit limited.
• Travelers with mobility issues or motion sickness should note that the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or those sensitive to boat movement.
• Those wanting all-inclusive amenities like free food and drinks might find this tour lacking in that regard.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
It lasts around 4 hours, including stops for swimming, snorkeling, and sightseeing.

Where does the tour depart from?
Meet at the Cirkewwa Cafe, a short drive from Mellieha.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes the boat cruise, stops at key sights, snorkeling gear for rent (€5), and the guidance of an experienced captain.

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

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Snorkeling masks and fins are available for rent (€5). Noodle floats are provided for free.

Can I swim at each stop?
Yes, swimming and snorkeling are the main activities during the stops at Crystal Lagoon, Blue Lagoon, and around Gozitan coastlines.

Is this tour suitable for children or non-swimmers?
Yes, many reviews mention families and non-swimmers enjoying the trip, especially with floating noodles and shallow waters at Blue Lagoon.

What should I bring?
Sunscreen, swimwear, towel, food, cash for extras, weather-appropriate clothing, and sunglasses.

Is it a crowded tour?
The boat is described as smaller and more intimate, so it’s less crowded than larger cruise options, allowing for a more relaxed atmosphere.

Final Thoughts

This Mellieha boat tour offers a memorable slice of Malta’s stunning coastline and island scenery. With expert guides, beautiful swimming spots, and an affordable price, it delivers excellent value for travelers looking to enjoy Malta’s waters without overcommitting or breaking the bank.

The stops at Crystal Lagoon and Blue Lagoon are undeniably the highlights—bright, beautiful, and perfect for water lovers. The added bonus of exploring the sea caves and natural rock formations, along with the friendly, knowledgeable crew, makes this a reliable choice for a fun, laid-back adventure.

If you love scenic views, snorkeling, and authentic coastal environments, this tour will give you a wonderful taste of what Malta has to offer. It’s best suited for those who want a relaxed, well-organized experience with plenty of photo stops, water fun, and a chance to see the islands from a different perspective.

In summary, for travelers craving a small-group, scenic, and affordable excursion that combines beautiful water, dramatic caves, and nice guides, this cruise from Mellieha is an excellent pick. Just remember to pack your sunscreen and a sense of adventure—you’re in for a memorable ride.

You can check availability for your dates here: