Gozo, Blue Lagoon, Comino, Caves & St Paul’s Islands

Thinking about exploring Malta’s most iconic sights from the water? This seven-hour boat trip offers a fantastic way to see the islands without feeling rushed, especially if you love scenic views, swimming, and a taste of local culture. While the trip is packed with highlights, it’s also designed for those who prefer a more intimate experience—small enough to weave inside sea caves and avoid the crowd chaos of larger boats.

What makes this tour stand out are its affordable price point, comfortable vessel with Wi-Fi onboard, and the ample free time on land to truly explore at your own pace. The trip’s small group size and personalized touches—like entering caves and enjoying the Blue Lagoon—add a genuine, less touristy feel. But if you’re craving in-depth historical commentary or a full day of blue waters, that’s not the main focus here.

This trip is perfect for independent travelers, families with kids, or anyone who wants a relaxed but comprehensive day exploring Malta’s coast. If you’re after a balance of adventure, scenic beauty, and local flavor, this tour deserves serious consideration.

Key Points

• Small boat size allows entry into caves larger boats can’t reach, offering closer views and better photos.
• Flexible schedule with generous free time at each stop for swimming, exploring, or relaxing.
• Incredible value at around $35 per person, including multiple stops, cave access, and scenic cruising.
• Onboard Wi-Fi provides connectivity and easy sharing of your trip moments.
• Ample space and facilities onboard, including restrooms and snack bar.
• Good for independent travelers and families who appreciate a more personalized experience.

The Itinerary in Detail

Boarding and Departure

Your adventure begins bright and early at 9:30 am from the charming seaside town of Bugibba. The boat, called The Mermaid, is small and cozy—capped at 48 passengers—which means a more relaxed atmosphere and better access to the caves and swimming spots. The crew is punctual, and the departure at 10:00 am feels like the start of a carefully curated day of exploration.

First Stop: Blue Lagoon at Comino

After cruising along the coast, you’ll arrive at the famous Blue Lagoon on Comino. Here, the turquoise waters look like they belong on a postcard—crystal clear with vibrant shades of blue and green. Thanks to the boat’s small size, you get the bonus of entering the sea caves, something larger vessels can’t do. Reviewers highlight how this intimate approach makes the experience special, with photo opportunities inside caves that larger boats simply can’t access.

Expect about an hour at this stop, which means plenty of time for swimming, snorkeling, or just floating in the calm waters. The onboard snack bar offers refreshments and snacks to keep you energized while you soak up the scenery.

A few reviewers appreciate the chance to jump from the boat and explore at their own pace, with one saying, “You can discover the land of Comino by foot, or just relax and dip in the water.” Though busy, many find this spot worth the visit, especially after arriving early to beat the crowds.

Second Stop: Gozo’s Mgarr Harbour

Next, the boat cruises to Gozo, Malta’s smaller sister island, for roughly two hours. As the boat approaches Mgarr Harbour, you’ll want to have your camera ready. The views of Gozitan cliffs and charming harbors are picture-worthy, and the crew often shares tips on where to go ashore.

Once docked, you’ll have free time to explore. Reviewers love this part of the trip because it offers a real taste of local culture. Whether wandering through town, visiting the St. George’s basilica, or grabbing a quick bite, you get a genuine snapshot of Gozitan life—less commercial and more authentic than tourist hotspots.

On the way back, the boat passes through the Comino channel, where you might see Crystal Lagoon or St. Mary’s Caves depending on weather conditions. This second leg provides more chances to admire the stunning coastline and take photos.

Final Stop: St Paul’s Islands

The last leg lasts around 30 minutes at St. Paul’s Islands, a secluded spot rich with history. You can either swim one last time or climb up to see the St. Paul’s statue, which offers sweeping views of the sea and island. Many reviewers highlight how peaceful and scenic this spot is, perfect for a final swim or a quiet moment of reflection.

As the captain sounds the horn, you’ll return to Malta, passing along the beautiful Maltese coastline. Expect to be back in Bugibba by around 5 pm, ending your day with plenty of photographic memories and a sense of accomplishment.

What to Expect Onboard

The vessel, The Mermaid, is designed for comfort and practicality. With restroom facilities onboard, you won’t have to worry about finding a bathroom during the day. The Wi-Fi connection allows you to share your adventures in real time, although some travelers note that the main focus here is on the scenery and swimming rather than onboard entertainment.

For food, there’s a snack bar, so you can purchase light bites and drinks—perfect for a quick refuel after swimming or exploring. Snorkeling equipment is available to rent, which is handy if you want a better look at underwater life, although you’ll need to provide a cash deposit.

Group Size and Atmosphere

Limited to 48 travelers, this tour offers a more intimate experience compared to the large, crowded boats often seen in tourist hotspots. Many reviews mention the friendly crew, who are helpful and attentive—serving drinks, giving local tips, and making sure everyone’s comfortable.

The Value Proposition

At just $34.57 per person, this tour offers considerable value. For the price, you get several highlights: three island stops, swimming in the Blue Lagoon, caves exploration, and free time in Gozitan towns. Considering the cost of private boat hires or separate excursions, this tour packs a lot into a single day.

Reviews consistently mention that the small boat size makes a big difference—allowing entry into caves and avoiding the crowds. The ample free time at each stop ensures you’re not just rushing from one to the next but can truly enjoy each location.

Authentic Touches from Travelers

Many travelers appreciate the personalized experience. One review mentions how the crew was helpful in organizing transport on Gozo and giving recommendations for swimming spots, enhancing the feeling of a well-rounded day. Families with babies also note that the crew paid special attention to safety and comfort, making it a safe choice for all ages.

Some reviewers point out that the trip might feel a little rushed if you want to spend a lot of time exploring each island, but overall, the balance seems to work well for most.

Good to Know

• Booking: Most travelers book about 15 days in advance, which indicates high demand.
• Meeting Point: Starts at L-Menqa36 Triq San Geraldu, San Pawl il-Baar.
• Weather Dependency: The trip is weather-dependent; cancellations due to bad weather are communicated well in advance, with full refunds offered.
• Age and Accessibility: Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed.
• Additional Costs: Lunch is not included, and snorkeling gear can be rented.

Who Should Book This?

If you’re a solo traveler, family, or couple seeking a relaxed day of exploration with beautiful scenery, this tour offers great value. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy swimming, caves, and small-group vibes over historical lectures. It’s perfect for independent explorers who want freedom to wander on land and enjoy the natural beauty at their own pace.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews mention families with babies and kids who enjoyed the day. The small boat size and friendly crew make it a family-friendly experience.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and a hat. Snorkeling gear can be rented if desired. A waterproof bag for valuables and a camera are also recommended.

Will I have enough time at each stop?
Yes, the itinerary provides ample free time—about an hour at Blue Lagoon, two hours in Gozo, and 30 minutes at St Paul’s Islands—enough for swimming, exploring, or relaxing.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included. There’s a snack bar onboard to purchase food and drinks.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If conditions are unsafe, the trip will be canceled, and a full refund or rescheduling is offered.

Can I access the caves?
Yes, thanks to the smaller boat, you can enter sea caves for close-up views and photos—something large boats can’t offer.

Final Thoughts

This small-group boat tour of Malta’s coast and islands offers a fantastic mix of scenic beauty, swimming, and local flavor—all at an affordable price. Its intimate vessel enhances the experience, making it easier to access caves and enjoy peaceful stops away from the crowds. With plenty of free time to explore, swim, and take photos, it’s ideal for travelers who want a flexible, fun, and authentic day out.

While it’s not centered on Malta’s history or extensive land exploration, it compensates with its focus on natural beauty and relaxed vibe. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a family, or with friends, this trip makes for a memorable Malta adventure—particularly if you love the water and scenic coastlines.

In summary, this tour is best suited for independent explorers and families seeking a value-packed, scenic, and intimate day out. Its carefully curated stops, friendly crew, and small boat size make it one of the more enjoyable options for discovering Malta’s coastal treasures without feeling like just another tourist.

Enjoy your Maltese sea adventure—just don’t forget your swimsuit and a camera!