St Pauls: Gozo & Comino Islands, Blue Lagoon & Seacaves Tour

If you’re planning a visit to Malta and seeking a way to see some of the most iconic sights while enjoying a relaxing day on the water, this boat tour from Mermaid Cruises promises a well-rounded experience. With a mix of swimming, sightseeing, and cultural exploration, it’s designed to give travelers a taste of Malta’s stunning coastlines and historic islands.

We particularly appreciate the chance to swim in the famous Blue Lagoon and explore Gozo’s vibrant town life. The fact that the tour is operated on a traditional Maltese schooner adds a charming, authentic touch that’s hard to beat. On the flip side, you’ll want to be prepared for the 7-hour duration and the fact that some elements are weather-dependent, especially cave viewing.

This tour is ideal for those who want a full day of sightseeing without the hassle of organizing multiple trips. It suits travelers eager to enjoy Malta’s natural beauty, learn about local culture, and have enough time for swimming and relaxing. It’s perfect for groups, families, and anyone who loves an active but laid-back day on the water.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Travel on a traditional Maltese schooner, not just a generic boat.
• Varied Itinerary: Combines island exploration, swimming, and sightseeing in one day.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable crew enhances the experience with insights and friendly service.
• Flexible Activities: Plenty of opportunities to swim, snorkel, walk, or relax.
• Weather-Dependent Highlights: Caves and some scenic views depend on good weather.
• Affordable Value: At $34, this tour offers a lot for a reasonable price, including multiple stops.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Itinerary and Experience

This full-day cruise kicks off bright and early from Bugibba’s Mermaid Cruises jetty. Boarding begins at 9:30 AM, with departure at 10:00 AM sharp, so arriving a little earlier is wise to settle in and get your bearings. The boat, a colorful red, white, and blue wooden schooner, immediately sets a relaxed, nautical tone for the day.

The Blue Lagoon: The Crystal-Clear Highlight

Your first stop is the Blue Lagoon on Comino—arguably the star of the trip. Here, you’ll have about 1.5 hours to enjoy the stunning waters, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. As one reviewer put it, “the crew are fantastic they will make sure you have a day to remember,” and the Blue Lagoon’s crystal-clear waters certainly help in creating those memorable moments.

You’ll also have the option to jump from the boat or explore the small island on foot. The on-board snack bar offers reasonably priced refreshments, and toilet facilities are available, making this stop comfortable as well as picturesque.

Comino’s Sea Caves and Scenic Coves

Cruising through the Comino Channel, the boat passes by spectacular sea caves that are weather-dependent but often awe-inspiring. This part of the tour adds a touch of adventure, with the chance to see Malta’s rugged coastline from a different perspective.

Exploring Gozo

Next, the boat heads toward Mgarr Harbour in Gozo, where you’ll have two hours to explore. Here, the Gozitan culture really comes alive—locals sell crafts, and there are plenty of cafes and restaurants to try. Many travelers recommend taking a bus into Victoria to visit the Cittadella, a historic fortress with panoramic views.

One review notes, “Our captain Matthew and the other crew member were professional and super chill.” This suggests a friendly, laid-back atmosphere, helping you feel at ease whether you’re shopping, walking, or just relaxing in the harbor.

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Santa Maria Caves and St. Paul’s Island

The cruise then takes you past the Santa Maria Caves, a scenic stop for photo opportunities and a brief visit if weather permits. The caves add a dramatic backdrop to your journey, and many agree that weather plays a role in cave visibility, so some disappointment is possible if conditions aren’t ideal.

Your last stops are St. Paul’s Islands, where you can walk, swim, or simply soak in the peaceful surroundings. One reviewer mentioned, “Our captain was super chill, and we were given time and freedom to do what we wanted,” emphasizing the flexible, relaxed vibe of the tour.

Returning and Final Thoughts

The boat returns to the jetty around 5:00 PM, giving you a full 7 hours of exploration, relaxation, and adventure. The experience’s value lies in the variety—from swimming in turquoise waters to sightseeing in historic towns—making it suitable for a broad range of travelers.

What the Tour Includes and Excludes

The tour’s included features—such as full-day cruising, swimming, snorkeling, and sightseeing—offer great value, especially since the snorkel equipment only requires a small deposit. The onboard snack bar ensures you won’t go hungry, and toilet facilities keep everyone comfortable.

However, there are some notable exclusions: transportation to the meeting point, lunch onboard, and snorkels if you prefer to bring your own. To access Comino, you must register with the Maltese Government Website for a free entry ticket, which is an extra step but necessary.

Practical Tips for Your Day

• Bring a hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water—Malta’s sun can be relentless.
• Swimwear and a towel are essential for that Blue Lagoon swim.
• Cash is needed for snacks and the snorkel deposit.
• Arrive early for boarding and secure your spot on this popular tour.
• Prepare for a weather-dependent experience—the caves and some scenic views might be limited if the weather turns.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect if you’re after a relaxed, yet adventurous day with plenty of swimming and sightseeing. It’s well-suited for families, couples, or small groups who appreciate authentic Maltese charm—from traditional schooners to local cuisine. It also appeals to those interested in photography or nature, thanks to the stunning vistas and caves.

Keep in mind, if you’re prone to seasickness or have back problems, you might want to consider your comfort before booking, as the tour involves some long periods on a boat.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

Absolutely. For $34, you get a well-organized day out that combines beautiful scenery, local culture, and active enjoyment. The chance to swim in Blue Lagoon, explore historic Gozo, and see Malta from the water is tough to beat for the price. The informative and friendly crew seem committed to making your day special, which makes all the difference.

The tour’s flexibility—time for swimming, exploring, and relaxing—means it can cater to many types of travelers. If you’re looking for a value-packed, authentic Malta experience with enough adventure to keep everyone engaged, this cruise deserves a spot on your itinerary.

FAQ

Do I need to bring my own snorkel gear?
Snorkel gear isn’t provided, but you can bring your own if you prefer. The tour offers snorkel equipment at the site with a deposit, or you can opt to bring your own for convenience.

What’s the best time to take this tour?
Check availability, but generally, the cruise departs at 10:00 AM and returns by 5:00 PM, giving you plenty of daylight. The tour is weather-dependent, so clear days will enhance cave viewing and scenic experiences.

Is there anything I should do before the tour?
Yes, you need to register on the Maltese Government Website for a free entry ticket to Comino; this is mandatory for access.

Are food options available onboard?
There’s a snack bar with reasonably priced drinks and snacks, but no full meals are included. You might consider bringing your own snacks or planning to eat at Gozo.

What’s the group size?
While the exact number varies, the tour is operated on a boat that’s large enough to feel spacious but intimate enough for personal service. The reviews mention a friendly crew, which suggests a manageable group size.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most likely, but it depends on your child’s comfort on the water and the length of the tour. Always check with the provider if you have young children or specific needs.

Can I walk around on the islands?
Yes, especially on Gozo and St. Paul’s Island, where you can walk around, explore, and swim. The tour provides free time at these stops.

What if the weather is bad?
Cave viewing and some scenic spots are weather-dependent. The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, so it’s wise to monitor weather forecasts.

This tour offers an engaging, scenic, and culturally rich day out that balances adventure with relaxation. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, it’s a charming way to experience Malta’s natural beauty and historic charm without breaking the bank.

You can check availability for your dates here: