Full Day Cruise to Gozo & Blue Lagoon with visit to Rabat

Exploring Malta’s Coasts and Islands: A Full-Day Cruise to Gozo & Blue Lagoon with Visit to Rabat

If you’re considering a day out on the water in Malta, this full-day cruise to Gozo and the Blue Lagoon offers a blend of scenic sights, charming towns, and refreshing swims. While it’s not a perfect trip for everyone, especially if you’re short on time or prefer a more leisurely pace, it’s a solid choice for those wanting an affordable, active day on the sea with a taste of local culture.

What makes this experience appealing? First, the cruise along Malta’s north coast offers incredible views of St. Paul’s Island and Mellieha. Second, the visit to Gozo’s capital, Rabat, provides a glimpse into local life and history, with a free 75-minute window to explore. Third, the Blue Lagoon’s tranquil waters promise a memorable swim or snorkel session. On the flip side, some travelers find the limited time at each stop and organizational quirks a bit frustrating. This tour suits travelers who enjoy a mix of sightseeing, light adventure, and socializing on a boat, especially those on a budget looking to maximize their day.

Key Points

Stunning coastal views: The cruise showcases Malta’s scenic northern coastline, perfect for photography and enjoying the sea breeze.
Cultural stop at Rabat: Visiting Gozitan history, especially the Cittadella, adds a cultural dimension to the day.
Blue Lagoon’s waters: The highlight for many, the Blue Lagoon offers crystal-clear, calm waters for swimming and relaxing.
Value for money: At around $49, it’s an affordable way to see several highlights in one day.
Organizational quirks: Some reviews mention timing issues and limited info, so be prepared for a flexible schedule.
Good for active travelers: If you enjoy a balance of sightseeing, swimming, and light walking, this trip hits the mark.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: What to Expect on the Day

The day begins at Sliema Ferries at 10:00 am, with the boat departing promptly at 10:30 am. The boat ride itself is part of the experience, offering viewers a chance to spot dolphins, jellyfish, and schools of fish, a bonus many reviewers appreciated. The boat features onboard commentary, so you’ll learn about the sights as you sail along Malta’s northern coast, seeing features like St. Paul’s Island and Mellieha.

The Gozitan Stop: Rabat and Cittadella

Once you arrive on Gozo, a bus transfer takes you to the island’s capital, Rabat. This part of the trip is designed to give you a taste of Gozitan charm. You get about 75 minutes of free time to wander at your own pace. Many travelers mention exploring the Cittadella, the historic fortress offering panoramic views over Gozo. Some reviewers, like John, felt the time was a bit tight, mentioning that only a quick visit to the citadel and a snack were possible before heading back.

A notable point from reviews is that the organization of the bus trip is generally praised, with some highlighting the ease of pickup and drop-off, and even complimentary drinks onboard. However, some felt there could be more time to explore, with one traveler wishing for a longer stay in Gozo to enjoy the sights beyond the citadel.

Afternoon at the Blue Lagoon on Comino

The afternoon is reserved for the Blue Lagoon, renowned for its turquoise waters and calm environment. Here, guests can snorkel, swim, or simply relax on the beach. Reviewers consistently mention how beautiful and tranquil the Blue Lagoon is, with some noting that it can be crowded, but the waters compensate for that.

From reviews, it’s clear that many find the Blue Lagoon the highlight of the day, with the opportunity to cool off after a morning of sightseeing. The tour allows for about 1.5 hours here, which some feel could be longer, but overall it’s enough to enjoy a swim and take photos of the stunning scenery.

Return Trip & Additional Notes

The boat heads back to Malta in the late afternoon, with arrival back at Sliema around 5 pm. Some reviews mention that the trip’s timing doesn’t always match the schedule, citing late departures and shorter or longer stops, but most agree it’s a well-organized day considering the logistics.

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Facilities & Practicalities

The onboard facilities are basic — just one small toilet, which some travelers found less than ideal, especially after a day in the sun. The boat offers onboard commentary (in English), and there are facilities to rent snorkeling gear if you wish to explore beneath the surface.

What to Bring: Comfortable shoes for walking around Rabat and the citadel, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and possibly a hat. The weather can be quite sunny, so protection from the sun is key. Reviewers also mention the value of bringing extra snacks or drinks, as the trip doesn’t include food or beverages.

Important Updates: Starting May 2025, visitors will need a free online ticket to walk on Comino, the Blue Lagoon’s island. The ticketing process is straightforward, but keep in mind you’ll need to reserve your slot (1330-1730 hrs) in advance.

The Overall Experience: What You’ll Love and What to Consider

What stands out most is the boat’s ability to get you from Malta to some of the most photogenic spots without the hassle of navigating yourself. The views of the coast, the clear waters at Blue Lagoon, and the chance to explore Gozitan culture are all big bonuses. Many reviewers appreciated the knowledgeable guides and the well-organized transfers, making the day smoother.

However, some guests noted the limited time at each stop. The short window in Gozo meant only visiting the citadel and grabbing a snack, not immersing fully in the local vibe. If you’re a history buff or want to explore more of Gozo, this might feel rushed. Plus, the timing issues—such as departures being late or the trip ending earlier than scheduled—were mentioned, so flexibility is key.

Value-wise, at just under $50, this tour offers an accessible way to see multiple highlights in one day. The inclusion of commentary, transportation, and the cruise itself makes it a good deal, especially if you’re looking for a structured day out. Be prepared for some basic facilities onboard and organize your own snacks and drinks if desired.

The reviews also reveal a few surprises: some guests saw dolphins or jellyfish from the boat, which added an unexpected thrill, and others enjoyed the optional sunbeds on the upper deck for an extra EUR 10, enhancing the comfort.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This cruise is ideal for budget-conscious travelers who want a scenic overview of Malta and Gozo without breaking the bank. It suits active explorers who don’t mind a packed schedule and are comfortable with short stops. If you value stunning views, crystal waters for swimming, and a convenient way to see multiple spots, this trip ticks those boxes.

However, if you’re seeking deep culture or more relaxed time at each location, or if you want to explore Gozo extensively, you might find this tour a little hurried. It also works best for travelers who enjoy group transportation and don’t mind basic onboard amenities.

FAQ: Your Practical Questions Answered

Is food included in the tour?
No, the tour does not include food or drinks. You’ll need to bring your own snacks or purchase options onboard.

How long is each stop at Rabat and Blue Lagoon?
You get about 75 minutes in Rabat to explore the city and Cittadella, and approximately 1.5 hours at the Blue Lagoon for swimming and relaxing.

Are snorkeling equipment available?
Yes, snorkeling gear can be rented onboard if you want to explore beneath the water.

What should I bring for the trip?
Comfortable shoes, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and possibly a hat. Don’t forget to bring extra snacks or drinks if desired.

Is there any extra charge for activities?
The tour itself is $49, but optional extras like sunbeds on the boat’s upper deck cost EUR 10. Also, note that from May 2025, you’ll need an online free ticket to walk on Comino.

What if the schedule changes or I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your plans.

Final Thoughts

This full-day cruise offers a lively and affordable way to experience Malta’s coastal beauty, Gozo’s history, and the Blue Lagoon’s serenity. The trip’s strengths lie in its scenic views, knowledgeable guides, and good value. While the limited time at each stop and some organizational quirks might not satisfy everyone, most travelers find it a fun, straightforward way to pack a lot into a single day.

Ideal for adventurers who don’t mind a bit of a rush and want to maximize sightseeing on a budget, this tour provides a memorable snapshot of Malta’s best features. Just remember to prepare for the weather, organize your snacks, and be flexible with timing — it’s part of the adventure.

This tour offers a practical and enjoyable way to see Malta’s highlights, especially if you’re eager for a fun, active day on the water with some cultural exploration thrown in.

You can check availability for your dates here: