From Sliema/Bugibba: Best of Gozo & Comino Catamaran Tour VT

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Introduction

If you’re searching for a way to see Malta’s smaller islands without the hassle of multiple trips or guided tours, this Best of Gozo & Comino Catamaran Tour from Sliema or Bugibba might just be your ideal day out. With a blend of scenic cruising, self-guided exploration, and relaxing downtime, it offers a balanced way to experience Malta’s more tranquil islands.

What we particularly love about this experience is its stunning vessel, the eco-friendly catamaran, which provides both outdoor and indoor seating options. The free time at Blue Lagoon to swim and sunbathe is a highlight, as is the relaxing chauffeur-driven transfer in Gozo. That said, because the tour is unguided, it might not suit travelers who prefer a guided narrative or structured sightseeing.

This trip works best for those who enjoy flexibility, beautiful views, and a relaxed pace—perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting a hassle-free day with plenty of opportunities for independent exploring.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Flexible departure points from Sliema or Bugibba suit different hotel locations.
Eco-friendly catamaran provides comfort with indoor air conditioning and outdoor decks.
Unguided land transfer in Gozo allows for spontaneous exploration.
Free time at Blue Lagoon offers ample opportunity to swim and relax in crystal-clear waters.
Self-guided experience means you can explore at your own pace, but may miss the storytelling of guided tours.
Includes all transportation and transfers within the itinerary, offering good value for a full day.

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An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The Cruise to Malta’s Smaller Islands

The journey begins with a state-of-the-art, eco-friendly 33-meter catamaran departing from either Sliema or Bugibba in Malta. The vessel’s sleek design and modern amenities—such as WiFi and restrooms—make the 40-minute cruise to Gozo a comfortable start. The choice to sit outdoors or indoors means you can enjoy Malta’s scenic coast or relax in air-conditioned comfort, no matter the weather.

Traveling along Malta’s north-east coast, you’ll get your first glimpses of the island’s rugged coastline, with several reviews mentioning the “beautiful views” and “smooth sailing,” highlighting the vessel’s quality and stability.

Exploring Gozo’s Citadel and Victoria

Once in Mgarr Harbour, you’ll hop into a chauffeur-driven, air-conditioned vehicle for your unguided journey to Gozo’s capital, Victoria. This 20-minute drive is a nice break from the boat, allowing for some spontaneous sightseeing or photo stops along the way.

The highlight here is the Citadel, a fortress city perched atop a hill, offering panoramic views over the island. With about 1.5 hours of free time, you can explore the winding alleys, grab a local snack, or simply soak in the vistas. Reviewers mention the “stunning views from the Citadel” and appreciate the flexibility to wander at their own pace.

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The Short Cruise to Comino’s Blue Lagoon

After returning to Mgarr Harbour, you’ll hop back onto the catamaran for a 20-minute cruise to Comino’s Blue Lagoon. This turquoise paradise is often the star of the trip. Multiple reviews describe it as “breathtaking,” with crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming.

You’ll have around 105 minutes to relax, sunbathe, swim, or explore the small island independently. Some travelers mention bringing snacks or drinks for their beach break, as there are no guided activities here. The environment is delicate, so it’s essential to reserve Blue Lagoon Access in advance to ensure entry and avoid overcrowding, as mandated.

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Return Journey and Final Relaxation

The cruise back to Malta takes approximately 50 minutes, giving you a chance to unwind and enjoy the sea views. Onboard, you can purchase food and drinks—although essentials like towels and beachwear are recommended to bring along.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Details

This tour is particularly appreciated for the relaxed pace. Because it’s unguided, you have flexibility—whether you want to stay in the water longer or explore the island’s hidden spots. Several reviews have praised the beautiful views and the quality of the boat, describing it as “comfortable and modern,” with “smooth sailing even on windy days.”

A notable advantage is the included transportation in Gozo, which ensures you’re not left to navigate unfamiliar roads. The organized transfers from main hotels in Sliema and Bugibba make the logistics hassle-free, especially for travelers who prefer to avoid coordinating multiple taxis or public transport.

What Could Be Improved?

One potential drawback is the unguided nature of the land transfer and the stops. Without a guide, you might miss out on some of the stories or history behind the sites. Plus, since food and drinks are not included, travelers should budget extra for meals or snacks, especially if spending several hours on land or the beach.

Pricing and Value

For the package price, you’re getting a full-day experience of cruising, land transfers, and free time—an excellent value considering the seamless logistics and the high-quality vessel. The Blue Lagoon Access reservation is extra but essential for protecting the environment and ensuring your entry. When factored into the total cost, this trip offers good value for a well-rounded day.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for independent travelers who enjoy a flexible schedule, beautiful scenery, and comfortable transportation. It suits couples wanting a romantic day, small groups looking for a shared adventure, or solo travelers eager to explore at their own pace. If you prefer guided commentary or want a more structured tour, this might not be the best fit.

The Sum Up

This Best of Gozo & Comino Catamaran Tour offers a fantastic way to enjoy Malta’s smaller islands without feeling rushed or boxed in. The combination of a modern, comfortable boat, independent exploration, and stunning scenery makes for a memorable day. The free time at Blue Lagoon is a particular highlight, offering some of the clearest waters for swimming and relaxing.

While the unguided format may not appeal to everyone, those who value flexibility and scenic tranquility will find this trip rewarding. It’s especially worth considering if you’re looking for a hassle-free way to see two of Malta’s most beautiful spots with minimal planning.

This tour balances comfort, independence, and visual splendor, making it well worth the modest price tag for anyone wanting an authentic, relaxing day on Malta’s waters.

FAQ

Do I need to reserve Blue Lagoon Access before booking?
Yes, reserving Blue Lagoon Access for the Afternoon Slot is mandatory and must be done via the Malta Tourism Authority’s website before booking your ferry. You’ll need the QR code for boarding and disembarking.

Is the tour guided?
No, the tour is unguided. You will have free time and self-guided transfers in Gozo, so you can explore at your own pace.

What should I bring for the trip?
Comfortable shoes, beachwear, a towel, and perhaps snacks or drinks for the day. Remember to bring your Blue Lagoon Access QR code.

Can I sit indoors on the boat?
Yes, the catamaran offers both outdoor decks and indoor air-conditioned seating, perfect for different weather conditions.

How long are the stops in Gozo and Comino?
You’ll have approximately 1.5 hours at the Citadel in Gozo and around 105 minutes at Blue Lagoon in Comino.

Are food and drinks included?
No, but they are available for purchase on board and in the stops. It’s advisable to bring some snacks, especially for the beach break.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour doesn’t specify age restrictions, children who enjoy boat trips and beaches will likely love it. Be mindful of the unguided nature and bring essentials for their comfort.

What is the duration of the entire trip?
The full experience lasts around 7 hours, including transfers, cruising, and free time.

Can I join this tour from other locations?
The tour departs from either Sliema or Bugibba, but check availability and starting points when booking.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, making it a flexible option for uncertain schedules.

This detailed review aims to give you a clear picture of what to expect from the Best of Gozo & Comino Catamaran Tour. Whether you’re after stunning scenery, relaxed exploration, or simply a day on the water, this trip offers a balanced, enjoyable experience suited for many travelers.