St Paul’s Bay is a prime base for exploring Malta’s coastline, islands, and hidden coves. It’s a hub where you can enjoy marine adventures, historical sights, or relaxing water-based activities. The area’s accessible location means most tours depart from familiar spots like Bugibba Jetty or Sirens Quay, making it easy to hop on a boat or rent gear for a day on the water. We especially like the boat trips for their combination of sightseeing and swimming in crystal-clear waters, like the trip to Blue Lagoon, which offers a perfect mix of scenic cruising and relaxing dip. If you prefer something more active, the stand-up paddleboarding tour provides exercise and scenic views in one go, perfect for those wanting a quick yet memorable experience.
Below, you’ll find a curated list of the best tours in St Paul’s Bay—from full-day island cruises to quick boat rides, all with strong reviews and unique features. Each offers a different way to enjoy Malta’s waters and islands, helping you choose based on your interests, time, and energy level.
1. St Paul’s Bay: Comino, Blue Lagoon, Gozo, & Caves Boat Tour
Rated 4.5/5 with over 1300 reviews, this boat tour makes the most of Malta’s marine scenery. Starting at the Bugibba Jetty, the 5.5-hour trip takes you on a sightseeing cruise through the Maltese waters to visit Comino, Gozo, and the famous Blue Lagoon. What sets this tour apart is the detailed itinerary that includes swimming, snorkeling, and exploring sea caves like the Crystal Lagoon Caves and St. Mary’s Caves.
During the day, you’ll experience multiple photo stops, such as Elephant Rock and Santa Maria Caves, with plenty of time for swimming and relaxing. The boat’s itinerary offers a good balance between sightseeing and leisure, with the crew providing helpful commentary. Many travelers appreciate the value for money, noting that the trip’s length and variety of stops make it a full, satisfying experience. The Blue Lagoon’s calm, turquoise waters are ideal for a swim, while the caves add a touch of adventure.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a comprehensive experience for those who want to see several islands and enjoy local marine spots in one day. It’s perfect for families and first-time visitors wanting an all-in-one trip.
2. Malta: Comino+ Santa Maria Bay, Blue Lagoon + Seacaves tour
At number 2, this 4 to 6.5-hour sailing adventure offers a slightly more flexible experience, departing from Sirens Quay. Rated 4.6/5 with nearly 730 reviews, it’s praised for its friendly crew and relaxed atmosphere. The trip includes swimming and snorkeling in both Blue Lagoon and Santa Maria Bay, with a focus on scenic cruising and exploring sea caves.
What makes this tour stand out is its seafaring vibe—you’ll be on a sailboat rather than a large cruise ship, which makes the experience feel more intimate. The itinerary includes multiple photo stops and free time at key locations, giving you options to relax or explore. Reviewers often highlight the value of the trip, especially noting that the crew keeps it affordable without sacrificing quality. Many also appreciate the secluded swimming spots, which provide a welcome escape from the busier tourist areas.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want a more relaxed, sailing-focused experience with plenty of opportunities for swimming in stunning spots, and who enjoy a lively, friendly crew.
3. St Pauls: Gozo & Comino, Blue Lagoon & Seacaves Tour
This 5.5-hour cruise offers a deep dive into the Maltese archipelago, especially for those who want to explore Gozo along with the classic Comino destinations. Rated 4.6/5 from 36 reviews, it balances island exploration with marine activities. Starting from Bugibba Jetty, it includes a visit to Blue Lagoon for swimming, snorkeling, and walking, plus free time in Gozitan towns for shopping and sightseeing.
What makes this tour distinctive is the focus on culture in Gozo, with some free time to stroll and explore local spots, along with sea cave visits. The itinerary offers a good mix of sea and land experiences, making it suitable for travelers who want more than just a boat ride. The scenic cruise and the chance to jump into the water off the boat are highlights, and reviews mention how peaceful and scenic the spots are compared to busier areas.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who want a full day of combined island exploration and marine fun, with added time for cultural or shopping experiences in Gozo.
4. Malta: Stand-Up Paddleboarding Tour
For those who prefer a more active water experience, this 3-hour stand-up paddleboarding tour is a great choice. Rated 5/5, it’s designed for beginners and experienced paddlers alike. Equipment is included, and the tour takes you along Malta’s coast, letting you explore beaches, coves, and caves while getting a solid workout.
What makes this tour unique is its emphasis on self-propelled exploration—you control your journey, making it a flexible experience. The guide provides safety tips and support, ensuring beginners feel comfortable. It’s perfect if you want a personalized adventure that combines exercise with sightseeing. The tour’s shorter duration makes it suitable for travelers with limited time or those who want a quick, memorable experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for active travelers wanting a hands-on way to see Malta’s coast, with the added benefit of full-body exercise and a chance to discover secluded spots at your own pace.
How to Choose
Choosing between these tours depends on what you’re after. If you want a complete day on the water with multiple islands, the St Paul’s Bay: Comino, Blue Lagoon, Gozo, & Caves Boat Tour offers great value. For a sailing experience with a laid-back vibe, the Comino + Santa Maria Bay, Blue Lagoon + Seacaves tour provides intimacy and tranquility. If you’re interested in combining island exploration with cultural sights, the third option offers a good mix.
Meanwhile, the paddleboarding tour is perfect for fitness-minded travelers wanting a personal adventure. Consider your fitness level, how much time you want to spend on water, and whether you prefer an active or relaxing experience when making your choice.
Final Thoughts
All four tours showcase Malta’s stunning waters and islands, but each caters to different interests. If you’re after a full-day, multi-island cruise with plenty of swimming, the boat trip to Comino and Gozo is hard to beat. For a more relaxed sailing trip with smaller crowds, the Seacaves tour shines. Want a cultural and marine mix? The third option delivers both. And if a fitness challenge and unique perspective appeal, the stand-up paddleboarding offers a fun workout on the Maltese coast.
Booking early is recommended, especially in the busy summer months. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely cruise or an active paddle, these tours give you a fantastic way to experience Malta’s waters and islands authentically.