From Sliema: Best of Gozo & Comino (CMO)

Exploring Malta’s Best: A Closer Look at the Gozo & Comino Tour

If you’re dreaming of scenic boat rides, crystal-clear waters, and a taste of island life, the “Best of Gozo & Comino” tour from Sliema offers a compelling way to tick those boxes. While I haven’t personally taken this trip, I’ve gathered enough details and reviews to give you a thorough, honest look at what you can expect.

What I love about this experience are the stunning water views, the convenience of organized transport, and the chance to explore two islands in one day. It’s designed to give you a taste of Malta’s less-visited neighbor islands without the hassle of planning multiple tickets and transfers.

One potential drawback seems to be the lack of guided commentary during key sites, with some reviews mentioning that the guide’s presence was limited and the experience somewhat disjointed. Still, for those who enjoy self-guided exploration and natural beauty, this tour packs plenty of appeal.

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a well-organized day trip that balances sightseeing with relaxation, especially if your focus is on enjoying beautiful waters and scenic views rather than in-depth historical narration.

Key Points

• Scenic boat trips to the Blue Lagoon and around the islands
• Ferry and shuttle services provide smooth transitions between locations
• Two hours in Gozo offers flexible exploration time
• Access to the Blue Lagoon’s crystal waters for swimming and snorkeling
• Includes transfers from Sliema, making it convenient
• Limited guided commentary during some parts, so self-guided exploration is encouraged

You can check availability for your dates here:

What’s Included and How It Works

The “Best of Gozo & Comino” tour from Sliema is crafted to maximize your exposure to Malta’s surrounding islands with minimal fuss. The day begins with a ferry ride from Sliema Ferries, followed by a scenic boat cruise to the Blue Lagoon, one of the most photographed spots in Malta, known for its crystal-clear waters—a perfect backdrop for swimming and snorkeling.

After the Blue Lagoon, you’ll hop on a shuttle from Mgarr port to the historic Cittadella in Rabat, Gozo. Here, you get about two hours of self-guided time to wander the ancient streets, soak in views from the fortress walls, or browse small local shops. The flexibility is nice, especially if you prefer wandering independently rather than joining a guided tour.

Later, another ferry takes you from Mgarr, Gozos’ main port, to Comino, where you’ll have about an hour of free time to swim or just relax on the island. The highlight here is the Blue Lagoon, famed for its transparent waters and peaceful atmosphere.

Finally, the shuttle returns you to Sliema, completing a day packed with water, history, and island scenery.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting Point: Sliema Ferries

Departure from Sliema Ferries offers a central, accessible start point, with flexible times depending on availability. The boat departs in the morning, setting the scene for a full day of island adventures.

Blue Lagoon: The Water’s Edge

Arriving at the Blue Lagoon means stepping into one of Malta’s most iconic sights. The boat cruise lasts about 100 minutes, giving plenty of time to swim, snorkel, or simply soak up the views. The water’s clarity makes it ideal for exploring underwater, and many travelers find it a highlight of the trip.

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Gozo: Island Exploration

The stop at Gozo provides around three hours of self-guided exploration. You might choose to visit the Cittadella, a fortress with panoramic views, or wander through the quaint streets. While some reviews noted that the guide’s role during this segment was minimal (“the only thing said in Italian was the sale of tickets”), it allows for personal pacing and discovery.

Comino: The Quiet Escape

The short stop at Comino gives you an hour of free time to enjoy the tranquility and scenic beauty. Swimmers will appreciate the pristine waters, and those looking for a peaceful respite will value the quiet island atmosphere.

Return to Sliema

The day ends with a shuttle back to Sliema Ferries, allowing for a relaxed conclusion to your island-hopping adventure.

The Practical Side: Transportation & Timing

The tour’s logistics are designed for ease. The ferry rides are included in the price, which is a big plus for convenience. The shuttle service between ports and the historic site in Gozo simplifies what could otherwise be a logistical headache, especially for those unfamiliar with local transportation.

The total duration is roughly one day, with departure times varying—it’s important to check availability for your preferred date. The tour is accessible for wheelchair users, adding to its inclusiveness.

Timing-wise, it’s a well-paced day, but be prepared for a fair amount of boat travel. The boat rides are scenic and generally praised for their comfort, though some reviewers suggest bringing snacks or refreshments for extra comfort during waits or downtime.

Price and Value

While the exact cost isn’t specified here, this type of tour offers a value-packed experience. You’re paying for ferry rides, boat trips, a shuttle service, and some time to explore, all bundled into a single day, which eliminates the hassle of booking multiple tickets separately.

For travelers who want a comprehensive yet flexible way to see Malta’s neighboring islands, the price should reflect the convenience and natural beauty provided. Keep an eye on any additional costs—like optional excursions or tickets to certain sites—especially with the new Comino regulations requiring pre-booking for island access.

Authentic Experiences and Tips from Reviews

One reviewer, Rosalba, mentioned, “The trip was beautiful, but it’s a shame that the guide was not very involved, and most of the commentary was in Italian only during the ticket sale.” This highlights that while the experience is visually stunning, the guided aspect might be limited.

Another insight is that the water at Blue Lagoon is famously clear, making it perfect for snorkeling, and many guests find the views to be “breathtaking,” especially when the light hits the water just right.

Some travelers appreciated the free time in Gozo, as it allows for personalized exploration. The flexibility was a key advantage, especially for those wanting to skip guided tours and just wander.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This trip is perfect for independent travelers who enjoy natural scenery, swimming, and casual exploration. It’s well-suited for those who want a hassle-free day that includes transportation, scenic boat rides, and some free time. It’s especially ideal if your goal is to relax in beautiful waters and snap memorable photos.

However, if you prefer guided commentary or in-depth historical insights, you might find the tour somewhat limited in narrative. Also, those sensitive to boat trips or prone to motion sickness should plan accordingly, as boat rides are a key part of this experience.

In summary, this tour offers a balanced blend of relaxation, scenic beauty, and island exploration—all in one package. It’s best suited for travelers looking to enjoy Malta’s stunning natural features with a touch of local charm, without the complexity of full-day guided tours.

The “Best of Gozo & Comino” tour from Sliema offers a practical, scenic, and satisfying way to see Malta’s neighboring islands in just one day. With easy transportation, breathtaking water views, and time to explore at your own pace, it’s a good pick for travelers prioritizing natural beauty and casual discovery.

While the guided commentary may be minimal and some reviews mention organizational hiccups, the overall experience remains enjoyable—especially for those enchanted by Malta’s famed blue waters. The flexibility at each stop allows for personalized experiences, whether you want to relax, swim, or explore.

Affordable and convenient, this tour is particularly well-suited for independent travelers and water lovers. If you’re looking to combine stunning scenery with some island adventure without overpacking your schedule, this trip offers solid value and authentic scenic moments.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes return ferry rides from Sliema to Gozo and Comino, shuttle transfers between ports and the Cittadella, a boat trip to the Blue Lagoon, and free time for exploration and swimming.

How long is the boat cruise to the Blue Lagoon?
The boat ride lasts approximately 100 minutes, giving enough time for relaxing, swimming, and enjoying the views.

Is there guided commentary during the tour?
There is a live guide in English and Italian, but reviews note that during some parts, the guide’s involvement was limited, with much commentary in Italian only during ticket sales.

How much free time do I get at each stop?
You’ll have about two hours to explore Gozo and around one hour for free time at Comino, which is ample for relaxing, swimming, or wandering independently.

Can I swim or snorkel at the Blue Lagoon?
Yes, the clear waters and calm environment make it an ideal spot for swimming and snorkeling during your stop.

Are there any restrictions or new regulations I should be aware of?
Yes, from May 2025, visitors need to book a Comino access ticket in advance due to new regulations. Certain packages require booking specific time slots.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it easier for travelers with mobility needs.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sun protection, water, and possibly snacks for longer waits. A towel and waterproof camera can enhance your experience.

What is the typical group size?
While not specified here, organized tours like this usually have moderate group sizes, helping to keep the experience intimate and manageable.

Would I recommend this tour?
If you love natural beauty, scenic boat rides, and flexible exploration, yes. It’s especially suitable for those who prefer a relaxed day without the pressure of guided tours that limit personal freedom.

This detailed review highlights the practical details, authentic experiences, and honest insights needed to decide if this Malta day trip aligns with your travel style. Whether you’re after stunning photos, peaceful waters, or a simple way to see Malta’s islands, this tour offers a worthwhile adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: