St. Paul’s Bay: Blue Lagoon, Comino & Gozo with Bus Tour

Exploring Malta: A Day of Blue Waters and Historic Charm

Our review of the St. Paul’s Bay: Blue Lagoon, Comino & Gozo with Bus Tour offers a detailed look at this popular day trip. While we haven’t personally taken it, reviews and descriptions paint a vivid picture of what travelers can expect from this balanced mix of sea and land exploration.

What makes this tour stand out are the stunning scenery of the Blue Lagoon, the local insights from knowledgeable guides, and the chance to see multiple islands in one day at a reasonable price. However, some might find the limited time on each island a bit tight, especially if they want to linger longer at certain spots.

This experience is perfect for travelers aiming to get a snapshot of Malta’s diverse landscapes and history without breaking the bank. If you love scenic boat rides, scenic caves, or exploring charming towns, this tour offers a good combination of all three.

Key Points

• Value for Money: At around $35, the tour provides a comprehensive day out, including boat rides, bus transfers, and entry to caves.
• Authentic Experiences: Visit iconic spots like the Blue Lagoon and the Gozitan capital, Victoria.
• Scenic Highlights: Expect crystal-clear waters, impressive sea caves, and picturesque coastlines.
• Organized & Informative: Guides offer live commentary, making the experience educational and engaging.
• Time Management: The schedule includes specific times on each island, so planning ahead is key.
• Weather & Sea Conditions: Cave visits and some activities depend on weather, so flexibility is important.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Detailed Review of the Tour Experience

Departure and Initial Journey

Boarding begins around 30 minutes before departure at Dawret Il-Gzejjer, Bugibba Jetty, with the vessel “Mermaid” ready to set sail. The boat itself is smaller, which is a plus for maneuverability through caves and tight spots, but it also means limited space—something to keep in mind if you dislike crowded conditions. The crew, led by Captain Matthew, is praised for being friendly and for providing clear, helpful commentary, which adds context to the sights you’ll see.

Once underway, you’ll cruise along the Maltese coastline, passing prominent spots like Mellieha, giving a taste of the island’s natural beauty and rugged cliffs. The views from the water are particularly striking, and the boat cruise is a highlight in itself, offering plenty of photo opportunities.

The Blue Lagoon on Comino

The first major stop is the Blue Lagoon on Comino. This is often described as the main attraction, and it’s easy to see why. Expect water so clear it looks almost unreal, with shades of turquoise and aquamarine. Reviewers like Michelle mention it as “absolutely stunning,” with “crystal clear water that looked unreal.”

You’ll have roughly an hour here to swim, snorkel, sunbathe, or simply take in the scenery. Some travelers appreciate the time to relax, while others wished for a bit longer, as Michelle notes, “a bit more time there would’ve been perfect.”

Weather-dependent, the caves around Comino—like Crystal Lagoon or St. Mary’s Caves—are accessible on smaller boats, giving you a chance to explore these natural formations. Reviews mention that entering these caves is a special experience, with the smaller boat allowing access to areas that larger vessels can’t reach. Keep in mind, access to caves is also weather-dependent, so sometimes they may be closed if sea conditions are rough.

Transition to Gozo

After the Blue Lagoon, the cruise heads toward Mgarr Harbour in Gozo. Here, a bus awaits to take you on a 2-hour visit to Victoria, the island’s charming capital. This is a highlight for many travelers, offering a glimpse into Gozitan life and history.

Michelle describes Gozo as having “a great vibe,” and the visit typically includes the Cittadella, a historic fortress offering incredible panoramic views. While the schedule allows two hours, some reviews suggest that’s a little tight, especially if you want to explore more or enjoy local food at the markets. The review from Beatriz highlights this, saying, “Gozo requires at least half an hour more,” indicating that a longer visit might be better for a relaxed experience.

You can opt to explore the markets or grab a quick bite at local Gozitan restaurants, though the tour doesn’t include food. The guided bus trip provides a convenient way to see the main sights without extra planning, making it ideal for those on a tight schedule.

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Returning to the Water and Cave Exploration

Back at the harbor, the boat cruise resumes, heading toward more sea cave exploration. The smaller vessel makes it easier to enter caves like the stunning St. Mary’s or Crystal Lagoon caves, weather permitting. Reviewers like Steve mention that “the caves are a must-see,” especially since they’re accessible at no extra charge and give an intimate experience you can’t get with larger tour boats.

Expect excellent photo opportunities with dramatic rock formations, and a good chance to see wildlife or marine life if you’re snorkeling or just watching the coastline.

Final Stretch and Return

As the day winds down, the boat heads back toward Bugibba, giving you more chances to admire the coastline’s beauty. Reviewers like Laura appreciate the helpful commentary and the well-organized schedule, which ensures you see the highlights without feeling rushed.

The entire experience wraps up back at the starting point, with many travelers commenting on leaving with a wealth of photos and memories. The tour ends around late afternoon, making it a full-day adventure packed with scenic views, historical sites, and fun water activities.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

Transportation & Timing

• The boat departs sharply on time from Dawret Il-Gzejjer, so arriving early is wise.
• Boarding begins 30 minutes before departure, with no refunds for late arrivals.
• The boat is smaller, which can be more intimate but may be less comfortable for those sensitive to movement or crowds.
• The bus to Victoria in Gozo is included, with options for private transport available—something many reviewers recommend for more time or comfort.

Cost & Value

• At $35 per person, this tour offers an affordable way to see multiple landmarks and enjoy several boat excursions.
• The inclusion of live commentary, Wi-Fi, toilet facilities, and cave entry adds good value.
• Additional costs include food, drinks, and snorkeling equipment, which can be rented—so budget accordingly.

Weather & Cave Access

• The guide reserves the right to cancel or modify activities based on weather conditions, especially cave visits.
• This flexibility can mean some caves might be inaccessible if sea conditions aren’t suitable.

What to Bring

• Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)
• Swimsuit and towel
• Cash for extras
• Camera or phone for photos

Who This Tour Is Best For

Adventure seekers and water lovers will enjoy the Blue Lagoon and cave exploration.
History and culture enthusiasts appreciate the quick visit to Victoria, Gozitan markets, and forts.
Budget travelers will find the price very reasonable for what’s included.
Those who enjoy guided tours will benefit from the live commentary and organized schedule.

Not ideal for travelers with mobility issues or those seeking a very relaxed or extended stay on each island, as the schedule is quite packed.

FAQ

How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts a full day, with departures typically in the morning and returning in the late afternoon.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket covers the boat cruise, live commentary, Wi-Fi, toilets, and the bus transfer to Victoria in Gozo. Cave entry is included when weather permits.

Can I bring my own food or drinks?
Food and drinks are available for purchase on board, but outside food isn’t mentioned as permitted. It’s best to bring cash for extras.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
No, but you can rent snorkeling gear for 10 euros with a cash deposit.

What if the weather is bad?
The captain can cancel or alter the trip due to weather, especially affecting cave visits and cave entry. Always check the forecast.

Is there a recommended time to visit the Blue Lagoon?
Most tours allow about an hour here, which is enough for a swim and quick photos. Early mornings or late afternoons might be less crowded.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking ahead is recommended, especially during peak season, and you can reserve without paying upfront. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a nicely balanced mix of Malta’s coastal beauty and Gozitan charm, all at a price that won’t break the bank. The boat’s small size and knowledgeable crew make for an intimate, informative experience, perfect for those who want a packed, scenic day without the fuss of planning every detail.

While some may wish for more time at each stop, the inclusion of highlights like the Blue Lagoon, sea caves, and Victoria’s markets makes it a fantastic introduction to Malta’s diverse sights. It’s especially suited for travelers eager to see the islands’ natural beauty and cultural side in one day, with the convenience of organized transport and guided commentary.

If you’re looking for a fun, value-packed way to explore Malta’s stunning coastlines, caves, and historic towns, this tour checks most boxes—and leaves you with plenty of memorable photos and stories.

Note: Always check weather conditions and cave accessibility before booking. Prepare for a full day and bring essentials like sunscreen, swimwear, and cash for extra expenses.

You can check availability for your dates here: