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

This Malta boat tour promises a half-day of scenic sailing, crystal-clear waters, and plenty of chances to jump in and cool off. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, countless travelers have raved about its value, guides, and stunning spots, making it one of the top choices for exploring Malta’s coastlines.

What draws us in? First, the focus on authentic swimming and snorkeling opportunities at famed spots like the Crystal Lagoon and Blue Lagoon. Second, the knowledgeable guides like Captain Jonny Rock, who seem to make every stop informative and fun. Third, the overall value for money—a compact, well-organized cruise without feeling rushed.

One consideration travelers should keep in mind is that the tour lasts around 4 hours, so if you’re after a full-day adventure or want to explore on land afterward, this might feel a little brief. However, it suits those wanting a quick yet immersive sea experience, especially if you’re short on time or prefer relaxing boat rides over long excursions.

This tour is great for travelers seeking beautiful scenery, easy swimming, and a lively, friendly vibe on the water. It’s especially ideal if you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a small group looking for a hassle-free day of exploring Malta’s coast in comfort.

Key Points

• Stunning locations: Visit iconic spots like the Blue Lagoon, Crystal Lagoon, and Santa Maria Caves.
• Snorkeling & swimming: Ample time for water activities, with gear available for rent and floats provided.
• Knowledgeable guides: Captains like Jonny Rock are praised for their friendliness and expertise.
• Great value: Includes multiple stops, snorkeling gear, and a well-organized itinerary at a reasonable price.
• Beautiful scenery: Expect dramatic coastlines, sea caves, and unique rock formations like Elephant Rock.
• Limited on-land exploration: If you love full-day adventures, this short cruise offers mainly water-based sights.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Convenience

The tour begins at Cirkewwa Cafe, a familiar spot for boat trips from Mellieha. From there, you hop aboard a spacious, comfortable vessel that’s perfect for gazing at the coastline and unwinding during the cruise. The small group sizes and friendly crew make it easy to feel part of the adventure, and reviews mention how well-organized the start and end points are.

The Cruise Itself

The cruise is split into several segments, with 20-minute sightseeing stretches between all the main stops. These short cruises give you a chance to enjoy the fresh sea air, listen to insightful commentary, and snap photos of the coast. The boat itself is described as smaller, which many find adds to the cozy, intimate feeling rather than the crowding you might experience on larger vessels.

Stop 1: Crystal Lagoon

The first major stop is Crystal Lagoon on the western side of Comino, famed for its pure, shimmering waters. Travelers say it looks like a giant jewel, with intensely clear turquoise waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. You’ll have 50 minutes here, which many reviewers agree is enough time to splash around, take photos, and relax on the shoreline.

Many mention that snorkel gear can be rented for €5, and floats are provided free of charge, making it accessible even if you’re not a seasoned swimmer. The water’s transparency is a real highlight, with some reviewers praising how vibrant and inviting it looks.

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Stop 2: The Blue Lagoon

Next, the Blue Lagoon is a must-see. The sunlight filters through shallow waters, creating an enchanting blue hue that’s hard to beat. Visitors rave about the 50-minute swim stop, during which you can snorkel, look for silver fish, or simply bask in the sun. Several reviewers mention the peacefulness of the lagoon and how the shallow sands make it safe for swimming, even for non-swimmers.

One reviewer specifically appreciated the relaxed atmosphere and mentioned that the Blue Lagoon is a “must-visit,” especially when the weather is warm.

Stop 3: Gozo and Halfa Rock

After the waters, the boat heads to Gozo for about 50 minutes. This stop offers more swimming, but also a chance to see the “Promising Rock” (Gebla tal Halfa), a rock formation known for its interesting shape and photo opportunities. Reviewers like the fact that the guides are informative about the features, with some calling out specific spots like Elephant Rock.

Sightseeing & Photo Stops

Throughout the cruise, you’ll cruise past Santa Maria Caves and Elephant Rock—both picture-perfect sites. The Santa Maria Caves, in particular, are a quick 5-minute stop for photos, offering dramatic cliff faces and cave entrances perfect for snapping memorable shots. Reviewers frequently mention how close the boat gets to these sights, enabling great photo opportunities.

The Experience and Guides

What sets this tour apart, according to many reviews, is the friendly, professional guides like Captain Jonny Rock. They’re praised for their descriptive commentary, patience, and supervision during swimming stops. One reviewer said, “He was very descriptive about the sights, got very close to the points of interest, and supervised like a lifeguard,” which helps make the experience both safe and engaging.

Water Activities and Comfort

Snorkeling gear is available for rent (€5), and life jackets are provided, making it accessible for varying swimming abilities. The boat is equipped with toilet facilities, adding to the comfort during the trip. Many reviewers appreciate the free floats and snorkel noodles, which make floating and exploring underwater easier and more fun.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Bring swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and cash (for extra gear or snacks).
• The tour runs for about 4 hours, so plan to arrive promptly at Cirkewwa.
• Weather can impact the experience, so pack appropriate clothing.
• Not suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or those with motion sickness, so plan accordingly.

How Good is the Value?

When looking at the cost, this cruise offers a lot for what you pay. With multiple stops, snorkeling equipment, guided commentary, and the chance to visit renowned spots like the Blue Lagoon and Santa Maria Caves, reviewers agree the price is reasonable. One reviewer mentioned, “Best value for money I’ve had on holiday,” which underscores how much you get without overspending.

Compared to full-day tours, this half-day cruise hits the sweet spot for a quick but fulfilling experience. It’s especially appealing for those who want a taste of Malta’s marine beauty without committing a whole day.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This adventure is perfect if you’re looking for a scenic, water-based excursion that combines sightseeing with swimming. It suits those who love snorkeling, want to see iconic Malta sights from the water, or simply enjoy relaxing boat rides. It’s ideal for travelers with a limited schedule but still craving a memorable sea experience.

It’s less suitable for those with mobility issues or pregnant travelers, as the tour involves some swimming and boat movement. Also, if you’re seeking an on-land cultural or historical experience, this cruise is more about nature and scenery.

This boat tour from Mellieha offers a well-balanced mix of spectacular scenery, water activities, and expert guides, making it a fantastic choice for anyone wanting to explore Malta’s coastlines in a relaxed setting. The stops at Crystal Lagoon and Blue Lagoon are undoubtedly highlights, with the chance to swim in waters praised for their clarity and beauty.

The overall value for money is high, given the multiple stops, snorkeling gear, and the friendly, knowledgeable crew. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends, you’ll appreciate the intimacy of the small boat and the personalized service.

While it’s a short trip, it packs in enough highlights to leave lasting memories of Malta’s stunning sea caves and azure waters. If your aim is a fun day of swimming, exploring, and enjoying beautiful vistas without the hassle of a full-day tour, this cruise ticks all the boxes.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The trip lasts about 4 hours, with scheduled stops for swimming, sightseeing, and photo opportunities.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at Cirkewwa Cafe in Mellieha.

What’s included in the tour?
All activities, sightseeing cruise, snorkeling gear for rent (€5), floats, life jackets, and toilet facilities.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included but are available for purchase on board.

Can I rent snorkeling masks?
Yes, snorkeling masks are available for rent for €5.

Is the boat comfortable?
The boat is described as small but well-equipped, with enough facilities for a comfortable trip with a friendly atmosphere.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the tour involves swimming and boat movement, so it’s best suited for children comfortable in water and able to follow safety instructions.

What should I bring?
Sunglasses, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, cash, and weather-appropriate clothing.

Are there any restrictions?
Yes, the tour is not suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or people with motion sickness.

How do I book?
You can reserve your spot online with the option to pay later for flexibility. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance.

This cruise from Mellieha offers a perfect balance of scenic beauty, water fun, and expert guidance, making it an excellent choice for a quick, memorable Maltese adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: