Fernandes Cruise to Blue Lagoon in Comino and Gozo (VTT)

Exploring Malta’s Islands by Sail: A Detailed Look at the Fernandes Cruise to Blue Lagoon and Gozo

Malta is renowned for its stunning coastlines, crystal-clear waters, and charming islands, making it a prime spot for boat excursions. The Fernandes Cruise to Blue Lagoon in Comino and Gozo offers an inviting way to see some of the most iconic spots with minimal fuss. While we haven’t experienced it ourselves, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a picture of a well-organized, enjoyable day on the water, perfect for those who love scenic beauty and relaxed group outings.

What truly makes this tour appealing are three specific aspects: the chance to swim in the famous Blue Lagoon’s turquoise waters, the convenience of round-trip transport — which takes the hassle out of planning — and the abundant food and drinks that keep everyone refreshed. However, a potential downside highlighted by some travelers is that the second stop in Gozo’s secluded bay can feel less exciting compared to the Blue Lagoon, and the return transport might be chaotic for some. Still, this trip is best suited for travelers looking for a comfortable, all-in-one day cruise that combines sightseeing, swimming, and good food in a friendly environment.

Key Points

• Stunning Stops: Visit the iconic Blue Lagoon and a quiet Gozitan bay, perfect for swimming and relaxing.
• All-Inclusive Value: Buffet lunch, open bar, snacks, and restroom onboard make this a convenient and indulgent experience.
• Comfortable Transport: Includes pickup and drop-off from numerous Malta locations, simplifying planning.
• Flexible Duration: Around 7.5 hours, with ample time at each stop for swimming, sunbathing, or exploring land.
• Authentic Experience: Small details like friendly staff and timely updates enhance the overall quality.
• Potential Drawback: The chaotic return transport, as some reviews noted, might be a concern for travelers on tight schedules.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Review of the Fernandes Cruise Experience

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect from Start to Finish

The Fernandes Cruise begins with pickup from over 80 designated locations across Malta, making it accessible for many travelers. The meeting point is typically near the Sliema mooring, directly opposite the Sliema Hotel by ST Hotels, with a departure time around 9:40 am. The transportation is via Oasis minivan or bus, and travelers are advised to be ready 10 minutes early — punctuality is important here to avoid missing out on the best seats and the initial excitement.

As the boat sets sail, you’ll quickly notice the spectacular views of Malta’s northeast coast, featuring high cliffs, coves, and inlets that look perfect for a postcard. The cruise captain and crew, notably friendly and attentive, keep guests well-informed about the area, providing interesting tidbits and updates throughout the journey. This part of the experience offers a gentle preview of Malta’s scenic coastline, setting a relaxing tone for the day.

The First Stop: Comino’s Blue Lagoon

After about two hours of cruising, the first major highlight is the Blue Lagoon in Comino. Known worldwide for its stunning turquoise waters and soft sandy seabed, it’s the main draw for most passengers. Here, the boat anchors for approximately 90 minutes, giving everyone ample time to swim, sunbathe, or simply float in the sea. Reviewers mention that the water’s clarity makes it ideal for snorkelling—an activity you’ll definitely want to bring your gear for.

While the Blue Lagoon generally steals the show, some travelers note that the second stop, a secluded bay in Gozo, doesn’t quite match its excitement. One review describes it as “a bit boring after the Blue Lagoon,” though it still offers a peaceful environment for relaxing or taking a quick dip. The tranquility here does make it a good spot for those looking for a quieter moment, away from the crowds, but it might not be a major highlight for adventure seekers.

The Lunch and Drinks: A Feast at Sea

One of the tour’s standout features is the buffet lunch, freshly prepared on board. The hot and cold dishes offer a variety of flavors, and the open bar makes it easy to enjoy unlimited beer, wine, soft drinks, and water. Some reviews emphasize that the food is delicious, and the service friendly and attentive—making the meal feel more like a shared feast than a hurried snack.

Along With the lunch, guests are served a fruit-based afternoon snack during the return leg, which helps sustain energy for the rest of the trip. This all-inclusive approach, combining good food and drinks with scenic stops, offers solid value—especially considering the ease of not having to hunt for restaurants or worry about extra costs.

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The Gozitan Stop: San Blas Bay

The journey continues with a brief stop at San Blas Bay in Gozo, about 1.5 hours on land or by boat. It’s another opportunity to swim or relax, with reviews noting the scenic views on the way there. While the bay is lovely, some reviewers mention it’s a quieter spot and less crowded than the Blue Lagoon, perfect for those who prefer peaceful waters.

Final Stop and Return

The last major stop is in Gozo, where you have approximately two hours to explore or chill on the boat. Reviewers mention that the cruise provides a chance to unwind, enjoy the gorgeous scenery, and take one last swim before heading back to Malta. The return journey is around 2 hours, during which snacks and drinks continue to be available, and the crew keeps everyone entertained with updates about the islands.

The Chaos of the Return

Some reviews point out that the return transport can be chaotic. One reviewer described it as “complete chaos,” with confusion about who was supposed to board which vehicle. The bus driver’s limited English and reliance on GPS meant some guests, especially those heading to Valletta, waited an extra 1.5 hours. While many found the overall experience enjoyable, this aspect might be worth considering if you’re on a strict schedule.

The Practical Side: What You Need to Know

Duration and Timing

The entire tour lasts around 7.5 hours, from pickup to drop-off. Starting times vary, so checking availability before booking is recommended; most departures run between spring and autumn. The cruise begins early enough to maximize your day, yet the time at each stop is generous—around 90 minutes at Blue Lagoon and a similar length at the Gozitan bay.

Transportation and Convenience

The tour includes pickup from over 80 Malta locations, which is a big plus for convenience. If you’re staying near the Sliema mooring, you can even make your way there yourself. The transportation is typically via Oasis minibuses or buses, and guests are advised to be ready 10 minutes before pickup.

Food and Drinks

With a hot and cold buffet lunch, plus unlimited beer, wine, and soft drinks, the tour offers excellent value for those who enjoy casual, plentiful dining. Snacks are served mid-morning and in the afternoon, ensuring you stay energized. It’s worth noting that liquors and spirits are not included, but the open bar still covers most preferences.

What’s Not Included

While the experience includes most essentials, boat trip tickets for the caves are available for purchase during the summer months (June to September), if you’re interested in exploring caves near Comino.

Authentic Insights from Past Travelers

One review highlights the professionalism of the crew, mentioning that “booking and information before the trip were very good,” and the staff was very friendly. The reviewer also appreciated the “regular updates about the area,” which enriched the experience. Another guest praised the “wonderful experience and perfect crew,” making it clear that attentive service plays a big role in how enjoyable the day is.

However, not all reviews are perfect. An experience shared described the return transport chaos, with some guests waiting over an hour for their bus. This suggests that while the overall trip is delightful, the logistics afterward may be less smooth, especially for those on tight schedules.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise is ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers seeking a hassle-free day of sightseeing, swimming, and good food. It offers a relaxed pace with plenty of time to enjoy Malta’s famous blue waters and scenic coasts without the need to plan every detail. People who value comfort, good value for money, and a friendly vibe will find this tour particularly appealing.

If you’re after a lively party boat with multiple stops or an in-depth cultural experience, this might not be your best fit. But for those who want a balanced day out, with beautiful views, tasty food, and a friendly crew, this cruise hits the sweet spot.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

The Fernandes Cruise to Blue Lagoon and Gozo offers a generous taste of Malta’s natural beauty in a relaxed, all-in-one package. You’ll love the spectacular scenery, the delicious buffet, and the unlimited drinks, all delivered by a friendly and professional crew. The two main stops—Blue Lagoon and San Blas Bay—are perfect for swimming and unwinding, making it a memorable day on the water.

While some travelers note that the second stop can be less exciting and the return transport chaotic, these issues are outweighed by the overall experience’s convenience and comfort. It provides excellent value, especially for those who want a guided, stress-free day with plenty of opportunities to explore or relax at their own pace.

Ultimately, this tour suits travelers looking for a fun, scenic, and straightforward Maltese island adventure, especially if they appreciate good food, friendly service, and stunning views.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off from over 80 locations across Malta are included, making it easy to start and end your day without extra planning.

What’s the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 7.5 hours, with flexible start times depending on availability.

How long do we stay at each stop?
You’ll have approximately 90 minutes at both Blue Lagoon and the Gozitan bay, enough time to swim, relax, or explore a little.

What food and drinks are provided?
A freshly prepared hot and cold buffet lunch is served, along with an open bar offering unlimited beer, wine, soft drinks, and water. Snacks are also provided mid-morning and in the afternoon.

Are there any extra costs?
Boat trip tickets for caves are optional and available for purchase during summer months. Liquors and spirits are not included in the open bar.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, towels, sun protection, and perhaps snorkel gear if you want to explore underwater. The boat has restrooms onboard for convenience.

Is there a limit to the group size?
While the exact size isn’t specified, the experience feels intimate enough to allow for personalized service, yet large enough to accommodate many travelers comfortably.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel up to 24 hours before the trip, providing peace of mind when booking in advance.

To sum it up, the Fernandes Cruise to Blue Lagoon and Gozo offers a well-rounded, enjoyable day out on Malta’s waters. Its highlights—breathtaking scenery, tasty food, and friendly service—make it a worthwhile choice for most travelers. While a few logistical hiccups might occur, the overall value and authentic experience make it a memorable Maltese adventure. Perfect for those who want a low-stress, scenic day with plenty of opportunities to relax, swim, and soak up the island’s beauty.

You can check availability for your dates here: