St Paul’s Bay: Comino, Blue Lagoon, Gozo, & Caves Boat Tour

Exploring Malta’s Coastline with the St Paul’s Bay: Comino, Blue Lagoon, Gozo & Caves Boat Tour

If you’re planning a day trip to Malta and want a balanced mix of natural beauty, history, and relaxation, a boat tour around the Maltese Islands might be just what you need. This particular adventure, departing from St. Paul’s Bay, offers a chance to see some of Malta’s most iconic spots — from the crystal-clear waters of the Blue Lagoon to the rugged caves of St. Paul’s Islands and the lush landscapes of Gozo. It’s a great way to get a taste of Malta’s diverse coastal scenery, all in one day.

What really catches your eye about this tour is its affordability and the authentic feel of small-group cruising. Plus, many reviewers rave about the friendly, knowledgeable crew and the chance to swim in some of the Mediterranean’s most famous spots. However, a potential drawback is the schedule’s reliance on weather conditions — the caves and certain stops depend on sea safety and visibility. If you’re hoping for a leisurely, flexible experience, keep that in mind. This tour is perfect for travelers who love water, scenic vistas, and a taste of local culture, all without breaking the bank.

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Key Points

• Affordable Value: At just $34 per person, it offers a lot of bang for your buck, including multiple island stops and swimming.
• Small Group Comfort: The smaller boat size means less overcrowding, more personalized attention, and easier access to caves and swim spots.
• Variety of Highlights: From Blue Lagoon to Gozitan villages and caves, you get a rich mix of natural beauty and cultural sites.
• Active and Relaxing: Plenty of swimming, snorkeling, and walking, balanced with relaxing moments onboard and at each stop.
• Expert Crew: Many reviews praise the friendly, helpful staff, and the live English commentary adds context to your sightseeing.
• Weather Dependent: Cave visits and swimming depend on sea conditions; plans may shift if weather isn’t cooperative.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Departure and First Impressions

Your adventure begins in the morning at Mermaid Cruises’ meeting point in Bugibba, St. Paul’s Bay. The boat, affectionately called “The Mermaid,” is easy to spot with its bright colors. Boarding officially kicks off around 9:30 AM, with the crew making sure everyone is accounted for and comfortable. Many reviews comment on the friendly atmosphere — “all staff friendly and informative,” as one traveler noted — which sets a relaxed tone for the day.

The boat itself is described as comfortable, with onboard toilets and a smaller size than many other vessels. This smaller craft allows for a more intimate experience, and many appreciate that it can navigate closer to caves and rocky coastlines that larger boats might avoid. The captain and crew are often praised for their helpfulness, with multiple reviewers mentioning how they went out of their way to make sure everyone had a good time.

The Itinerary Breakdown

First Stop: Coastal Sightseeing and Caves
The cruise kicks off with a scenic ride along Malta’s coast, giving you your first taste of the limestone cliffs and rugged caves. You’ll pass by notable formations such as the Crystal Lagoon Caves and St. Mary’s Caves. The crew provides live commentary in English, adding interesting insights without overloading you with details. Expect to see breathtaking rock formations and learn about the coastline’s geological features. Some reviews mention that weather and sea conditions might influence how close you can get to caves — “the caves that are viewed and entered are weather and sea-dependent,” as noted.

Second Stop: Blue Lagoon at Comino
The Blue Lagoon is the star attraction, famous for its vibrant, turquoise waters. You’ll get about an hour here to swim, snorkel, or just relax on the boat. Many travelers rave about the clarity of the water — “the Blue Lagoon was gorgeous even though it was very busy,” as one reviewer mentioned — and most find this stop well worth the trip. The lagoon can be crowded, but the small boat size lets you anchor in calmer spots away from the crowds, enhancing your comfort.

Exploring Comino
Here, you can also take a walk to explore the island’s rugged terrain and maybe grab a snack or drink. Some reviews highlight how the crew was helpful in advising on the best spots to swim or relax. A notable feature near the lagoon is the Crystal Lagoon Caves, a scenic highlight for those who like exploring caves and rocky caves.

Third Stop: Gozitan Charm in Gozo
Next, the boat heads to the island of Gozo, where you’ll enjoy about two hours of free time. You can stroll through the capital, Victoria, and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere, vibrant local culture, and quaint streets. Many reviews say this is a highlight — “a beautiful city with a lovely square,” and “well worth the visit,” they claim. You’ll also have the chance to see the iconic statue of St. Paul and explore the ruins of an ancient church.

Additional Cave Sightings: St. Paul’s Island
On the return journey, the cruise takes you past the caves near St. Paul’s Island, including St. Mary’s Caves. Weather conditions may determine whether you can get close enough to explore, but the scenery alone makes this part worthwhile. Some travelers report swimming on St. Paul’s Island, enjoying the clear waters, and climbing to the statue for a panoramic view.

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Swimming, Snorkeling, and Relaxation

One of the biggest perks of this tour is the chance to jump into the water at multiple stops. Reviews are consistent about how the crew facilitates swimming and snorkeling — “you might find that the swim stops are the highlight,” says a review — plus, snorkel equipment is available for rent for a small fee. For many, this is the main attraction, providing the opportunity to cool off in the Mediterranean’s famously clear waters.

Lunch Options and Additional Costs

While the tour price covers the boat trip, crew, and live commentary, food and drinks are available for purchase onboard. Some reviews mention enjoying fresh fruit or cocktails, especially the popular pineapple drinks, which add a little luxury to the trip. If you want a proper meal, you’ll need to buy it separately at the stops or bring your own. Keep in mind that a ticket for entry to Comino Island is free but required, and booking that in advance is recommended.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Trip

• Timing: Boarding begins at 9:30 AM, so arrive a bit early to settle in and avoid missing out.
• What to Bring: Sun hat, swimwear, sunscreen, and cash for onboard purchases.
• Group Size: The boat’s smaller size makes for a more intimate experience, which many travelers appreciate.
• Weather: The crew can cancel or modify the trip based on weather conditions, especially caves and swimming spots.
• Accessibility: Not suitable for those with mobility impairments, so plan accordingly if needed.

How This Tour Compares to Other Options

Many similar excursions exist, with comparable prices and itineraries, but this one stands out thanks to its smaller boat size and high review scores. It’s often praised for the knowledgeable guides and the balance of activities — not too rushed, but enough time at each stop to enjoy yourself. Some travelers mention that this trip offers more personalized service and less overcrowding compared to larger boats.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most

This boat tour is ideal for water-loving travelers who want an affordable way to explore Malta’s coastlines, caves, and islands in one day. If you’re keen on swimming, snorkeling, or just relaxing in scenic spots, you’ll find plenty to love. It also suits those who prefer a smaller, more intimate vessel over larger party boats. However, if you’re concerned about sea sickness or have mobility issues, this might not be the best fit.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For the price — around $34 — this tour delivers serious value. It offers a well-organized, friendly experience that combines natural beauty, cultural sights, and fun water activities. The high ratings and enthusiastic reviews reflect genuine satisfaction, especially from those who appreciated the crew’s professionalism and the chance to see Malta from a different perspective.

The flexibility to swim at multiple stops, combined with the scenic cave views and the vibrant Blue Lagoon, make this a memorable day for anyone looking to soak up Malta’s seaside charm. It hits a sweet spot between affordability and adventure, making it a smart choice for travelers wanting a full, authentic taste of Malta’s coastline.

The Sum Up

This boat tour from St. Paul’s Bay is best suited for travelers who enjoy water-based activities, scenic landscapes, and small-group experiences. It offers a fantastic mix of natural wonders and cultural highlights, all at an accessible price point. The friendly crew, the stunning scenery, and the opportunity to swim in crystal-clear waters make it a standout option for a Malta day trip.

If you value authentic experiences, good value, and an active day out, this tour is likely to leave you with great memories. Just remember to check the weather forecast and arrive early — the best moments are often weather-dependent, and the crew will do their best to make it work. With careful planning, you’ll come away feeling you got a genuine taste of Malta’s coastal treasures.

FAQ

Is food included in the tour?
No, food and drinks are not included but can be purchased onboard. Some travelers enjoy fresh fruit and cocktails, but if you want a full meal, you’ll need to buy it separately.

How long is the trip?
The total duration is approximately 7 hours, giving plenty of time for swimming, exploring, and sightseeing.

What should I bring?
Bring a sun hat, swimwear, sunscreen, and cash for onboard purchases. It’s also wise to wear comfortable clothing and bring a towel.

Can I visit caves?
Yes, you will pass by caves like the Crystal Lagoon Caves and St. Mary’s Caves. However, cave entry depends on weather and sea conditions.

Is this tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
It’s not suitable for people with mobility impairments. The focus on swimming and walking around outdoor sites means it’s better suited for able-bodied travelers.

What is the group size like?
The boat is smaller than many others, providing a more intimate experience with less overcrowding, which many reviews appreciate.

Do I need to book the Comino Island entry ticket separately?
Yes, the ticket is free but must be booked in advance through the Maltese Government website to ensure entry.

Is the trip weather-dependent?
Yes, the captain reserves the right to cancel or modify the trip based on weather conditions, especially for caves and swimming stops.

You can check availability for your dates here: