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

If you’re looking to explore Malta’s stunning coastline and islands in a relaxed, accessible way, this boat trip from St Paul’s Bay is worth considering. It’s a budget-friendly option that offers a compact yet comprehensive look at some of Malta’s most popular sights.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the friendly and knowledgeable crew makes the experience feel personal and safe. Second, the perfect mix of swimming, sightseeing, and cultural exploration keeps things lively without feeling rushed. Third, with just $29 per person, it’s a surprisingly good deal for the value—especially given the number of stops and the scenic beauty you’ll encounter.

That said, it’s important to note that Blue Lagoon can get very crowded, and the short time allocated there might leave some wishing for more. If you’re seeking a more in-depth exploration or prefer a less busy experience, you might want to consider longer or private tours.

This tour suits travelers who want a taste of Malta’s highlights without breaking the bank. It’s ideal for those who appreciate friendly guides, scenic boat rides, and a flexible schedule that includes swimming and sightseeing.

Contents show

Key Points

Affordable Price: Great value at $29 per person with multiple stops.
Scenic Route: Beautiful views of Malta’s coastline, caves, and islands.
Ideal for Swimming and Snorkeling: Stops at Blue Lagoon and caves offer prime water activities.
Knowledgeable Crew: Guides provide clear, friendly commentary in English.
Flexible Stops: 1-hour in Comino and 2 hours in Gozo allow for exploration and relaxation.
Weather-Dependent Caves: Cave visits are subject to sea and weather conditions, which can affect the experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview of the Tour Experience

Starting in the morning from Bugibba in St Paul’s Bay, this tour offers a scenic cruise through the Mediterranean with a focus on Malta’s most iconic sights. The boat, named The Mermaid, is notably smaller than some other options, which many reviews appreciated for its intimacy and ease of access to caves and shallow waters.

Like being on the water? We've looked at these other boat experiences in St Paul S Bay

The Itinerary and What You Can Expect

The voyage begins with a briefing from your captain, who, along with the crew, keeps the atmosphere friendly and informative. The boat departs around 10 am, with boarding starting 30 minutes earlier. The crew’s live commentary in English offers insights into each location, from the caves’ geology to the islands’ highlights.

Visiting Comino

Your first stop is the tiny island of Comino, famous for the Blue Lagoon. You’ll have about an hour here, a window that many reviewers say is just enough to enjoy a swim or snorkel. The Blue Lagoon’s waters are praised for their incredible clarity and vibrant color—perfect for picture-taking and cooling off.

One reviewer, Molly, describes this stop as a “relaxing environment” with time to swim in the beautiful blue waters. But some mention that the Blue Lagoon gets very busy, especially during peak season, making it hard to find a private spot. It’s worth arriving early or staying close to the boat to maximize your time.

Exploring the Crystal Lagoon Caves

Your boat will pass by St. Mary’s Caves and other formations, giving you a glimpse of Malta’s rugged coastline. If the weather permits, you might get a chance to go inside some caves—an experience enhanced by the smaller boat’s ability to get closer than larger vessels.

The Stop in Gozo

Next, you’ll cruise to Gozo, Malta’s quieter sister island. The two-hour stop offers a nice balance—enough time to walk through the village, enjoy a bite, or visit the capital, Victoria (with optional mini-bus transport available). Reviewers frequently mention how much they appreciated the opportunity to stroll through the Gozitian streets and soak up local culture.

One guest, Debbie, points out that getting off at Blue Lagoon was very difficult over rocky terrain, which is something to consider if mobility is an issue. Still, many travelers say that exploring Gozo was a highlight, especially with the option to visit the city of Victoria or relax by the waterfront.

Additional Stops and Return

The return journey takes you past St. Paul’s Island, where you can stretch your legs and enjoy a quick swim. The boat’s small size allows for more intimate exploration and easier access to caves and shoreline spots.

By late afternoon, the boat heads back to Bugibba, arriving around 5 pm. Throughout the day, reviews highlight how well-organized the trip is—timings are kept, and the crew ensures everyone is comfortable.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour includes use of toilets, a captain and crew, and live commentary. You’ll enjoy 1 hour in Comino and 2 hours in Gozo, giving you enough flexibility to explore or relax.

Food and drinks are available for purchase onboard, with reasonably priced beverages and snacks. Snorkeling equipment can be rented for €10, with a cash deposit, making it easy to enhance your water activities. Access to Comino itself requires signing up on the Maltese Government website—free of charge but mandatory for entry.

One helpful tip from reviews: arriving early at the meeting point (at the boat The Mermaid) ensures a smoother boarding process, as the boat closes boarding 10 minutes before departure.

The Boat and Crew

Guests consistently praise the friendly and helpful staff. Many reviews mention how guides and crew members like Robbie and Matthew go out of their way to make everyone feel comfortable and safe. The boat itself is described as clean, comfortable, and just the right size—small enough to access caves but large enough for a relaxing trip.

The captain’s commentary is appreciated for being clear and informative, adding context to each stop without overwhelming. Several reviewers mention that the crew provided additional touches like fresh pineapple and kept the atmosphere chilled, making the whole day feel special.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Water Activities

Swimming and snorkeling are the main draws. The Blue Lagoon‘s crystal-clear waters are famously beautiful, as noted by Molly, who says the “swimming in the beautiful blue waters” was a highlight. Snorkeling gear is available for rent, and many reviews speak of how the crew makes it easy to get in and out of the water.

However, some reviewers like Saoirse felt that time at Blue Lagoon was too short due to crowds. The busy environment can limit your experience, but the boat’s small size helps avoid large group chaos.

There's plenty more to explore in St Paul S Bay

Duration and Value for Money

With the full day running roughly from 10 am to 5 pm, this trip offers a solid balance of sightseeing, water time, and relaxation. For $29 per person, the value is strong, especially considering the multiple stops, the included commentary, and the friendly service.

Guests note that additional costs like mini-bus transfers or purchasing lunch are optional. The trip is especially suitable for budget travelers who want to see Malta’s highlights without splurging on private tours.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for families, solo travelers, or couples wanting a relaxed day on the water. If you enjoy small-group environments, friendly guides, and scenic beauty, you’ll find this tour quite satisfying. It’s also a good choice if you’re on a tight schedule but want to hit the main sites.

However, those seeking a private or in-depth exploration might find the short stops and busy spots a tad limiting. It’s also not suitable for people with mobility impairments due to terrain and access.

Final Thoughts

This boat tour from St Paul’s Bay combines value, scenic beauty, and friendly service to provide a memorable Malta experience. While the Blue Lagoon can be crowded, the overall access to caves, the charm of Gozo, and the ease of a guided boat trip make it a compelling option.

You’ll love the relaxed atmosphere, the knowledgeable crew, and the opportunity to see Malta’s coastline from a different perspective. It’s a great choice for travelers who want a straightforward, fun day at sea with plenty of swimming, sightseeing, and local flavor.

For those with limited time or a budget-conscious mindset, this tour strikes a fine balance between affordability and authentic experience. Just remember to arrive early, bring plenty of cash, and wear your sun hat!

Frequently Asked Questions

How early should I arrive for boarding?
Boarding begins 30 minutes prior to departure, and it’s best to arrive early to secure a good spot and avoid missing the boat, as boarding closes 10 minutes before the scheduled time.

Is snorkeling equipment included?
No, snorkeling gear is available to rent on the boat for €10, which requires a cash deposit. Bringing your own gear can save time and money.

Do I need to buy an entry ticket for Comino?
Yes, access to Comino requires signing up on the Maltese Government website, which is free. The process is straightforward and ensures smooth entry.

What is the duration of the stops at each location?
You’ll have about 1 hour in Comino and 2 hours in Gozo, giving enough time to explore, relax, or have a quick meal. These times are flexible depending on weather and sea conditions.

Are the caves accessible during the trip?
The caves are weather-dependent, and the crew will determine if they can be entered safely. The boat’s smaller size allows closer access, but conditions may prevent cave entry on some days.

Is the tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
It’s generally suitable for children, especially those comfortable with boat trips and water activities. However, it’s not recommended for individuals with mobility impairments due to terrain and access issues at some stops.

What should I bring on the trip?
Bring a sun hat, swimwear, sunscreen, cash for onboard purchases, and possibly your own snorkeling gear if preferred.

Can I purchase food onboard?
Yes, snacks and drinks are available for purchase at reasonable prices, but bringing your own might be more convenient if you have specific dietary needs.

In the end, this boat tour offers a lively and scenic way to experience Malta’s coastlines, caves, and islands without fuss. Whether you’re a water lover, a culture seeker, or simply after a relaxing day on the water, it’s well worth considering—just plan for the crowds at Blue Lagoon!