Gozo, Comino and Blue lagoon Cruise

Trying to see Malta’s beautiful surrounding islands in a single day? This full-day cruise to Gozo, Comino, and the Blue Lagoon offers a fantastic way to do just that—covering the highlights while enjoying a boat ride along the coast. Whether you’re pressed for time or simply love boat trips, this experience packs in plenty of memorable moments.

What really makes this trip shine are the stunning water views, the chance to explore Gozo’s charming town of Victoria, and the refreshing swim in the famous Blue Lagoon. Plus, the onboard facilities and guided stops make it pretty easy to enjoy the day. But, like all trips, there are some things to keep in mind—such as the limited time ashore and the possibility of overcrowding.

If your idea of a perfect Malta adventure involves beautiful scenery, a touch of local life, and some fun in the water, then this cruise could well be your best choice. It’s ideal for travelers looking for a balanced mix of sightseeing and relaxation without the hassle of organizing transport or multiple bookings.

Key Points

• One-day islands tour covering both Gozo and Comino with plenty of scenic water views
• Guided bus tour of Gozo, including stops at Xlendi Bay and Victoria’s Citadel
• Swim and snorkel opportunities at the Blue Lagoon with boat equipment available
• Onboard facilities include a sundeck, waterslide, toilets, and a bar (food and drink for sale)
• Flexible stop in Blue Lagoon with 60–90 minutes ashore, depending on the season
• Cost-effective experience at approximately $46.44 per person, offering good value for the full day

The Experience: What to Expect on the Cruise

Starting out from Sliema, the cruise immediately sets a relaxed tone. You’ll arrive about 30 minutes early at the Luzzu Cruises terminal in Sliema, ready for a day of sightseeing, swimming, and enjoying the Maltese coast. The boat itself is well-equipped with bathroom facilities, a sundeck, and a waterslide—a real bonus for those eager to add some fun to the trip.

The Cruise and Water Activities

Once underway, you’ll enjoy viewing Malta’s scenic bays and lively towns from the water. Passengers particularly appreciated the cruise’s comfort and the friendly crew, with reviews mentioning how smoothly everything was organized—especially considering the boat can fill up quickly. The onboard bar offers snacks and drinks for purchase, so you can sip something cool as you soak up the views.

When the boat anchors at Comino, you’ll find a 90-minute window (April to October) or a shorter 60-minute stop in winter to explore the famous Blue Lagoon. During this time, many guests choose to swim, snorkel, or just lounge in the crystal-clear waters. Equipment is available to rent, although some reviewers mention the water temperature can be quite cold, especially outside the summer months, so don’t forget your towel and sunscreen.

Visiting Gozo: Land and Culture

Next, the boat docks in Gozo’s main harbor, where a guided bus tour takes you to key spots. The stops at Xlendi Bay are brief—just 20 minutes—enough for some quick photos of the bay’s rugged shoreline. More time is spent in Victoria, the island’s lively capital, where you can explore the massive Citadel or wander the local market at your own pace.

Many travelers loved the ease of transportation and the flexibility of the stops, with reviews noting how the stops provided a taste of local life without feeling rushed. However, some mentioned feeling a little disappointed by the lack of explanation during the land transfer—it’s not a guided tour, just transport, so no detailed commentary is provided during the stops.

Caveats and Considerations

While the trip offers fantastic photo opportunities and scenic water views, some reviews pointed out that the short time in Gozo doesn’t allow for in-depth exploration. An extra hour would give visitors more chance to see the island’s sights beyond the Citadel and market.

Plus, the size of the group can affect comfort—reviews note that the boat can get quite crowded, especially in peak seasons or off-peak times when the boat fills up. The lack of air conditioning on the bus was also mentioned, which might be uncomfortable during warmer months.

The Itinerary in Detail

Departure from Sliema

The trip begins at the Luzzu Cruises terminal on Triq Ix-Xatt in Sliema, about 30 minutes before departure. The boat departs promptly, cruising past popular beaches like St Julian’s Bay and St George’s Bay, giving a glimpse of Malta’s lively coast.

Onboard cruising

Throughout the journey, passengers are treated to panoramic views of Malta’s coastlines, with some reviews highlighting how the cruise is well-organized and comfortable. The vessel’s glass-bottom deck (if available) provides a unique perspective on underwater scenery—perfect for the camera and for those who love watching the sea life below.

Stop at Xlendi Bay and Victoria

Xlendi Bay offers a quick scenic photo stop—just 20 minutes—but plenty for a few memorable shots. The more substantial stop in Victoria allows roughly an hour to explore, giving you time to walk along the ramparts of the Citadel or browse the market stalls. Some guests felt this was enough time to get a sense of the town, but others wished for more.

Blue Lagoon

Arriving at Comino’s Blue Lagoon, you’ll be granted around 90 minutes in April-October or 60 minutes during winter. Many reviewers describe the lagoon as “crystal clear” and “beautiful,” making it ideal for swimming, snorkeling, or simply lounging on the rocks. Equipment rentals are available, but be prepared for the chilly water temperatures outside peak summer.

Comino Caves and Return

Before heading back, the boat cruises past the Caves of Comino, offering picturesque views of the rugged cliffs and rock formations. The return journey is relaxed, with time to reflect on the day and enjoy the coast’s natural beauty.

What the Reviews Say: Authentic Experiences

Multiple reviewers describe the trip as “well organized” and a “great value” for the price. The friendly crew and professional service earned praise, with many appreciating the timely departures and smooth transfers.

Some noted that the land transport in Gozo is simply a way to get around rather than a guided tour. “No explanations at all,” one reviewer pointed out, highlighting that if you want detailed insights into Gozo’s history or culture, you’ll need to explore independently.

A common theme among positive reviews is the stunning scenery—whether it’s the crystal-blue waters of Blue Lagoon, the rugged bays of Gozo, or the scenic coastlines of Malta. The water slide and sun deck add a fun, leisurely touch to the boat experience.

However, not all reviews are glowing. Some travelers expressed disappointment about limited time ashore in Gozo, feeling that an extra hour would have improved their experience. Others found the boat crowded in peak times, making it difficult to find seating or space to relax.

Pricing and Value: Is It Worth It?

At approximately $46.44 per person, this trip offers solid value considering the length of the tour and the number of sights covered. It includes transportation, the Blue Lagoon stop, and the scenic cruise, which would be complicated to organize independently, especially on a short schedule.

While food and drinks are not included, the onboard bar makes grabbing a quick snack or beverage straightforward. The swimming gear rental at $5 per set is a reasonable add-on for those wanting to swim or snorkel at the lagoon, though many recommend bringing your own gear if possible.

The main value lies in the convenience of a well-organized day that combines boat and land transport, allowing you to see a lot without the hassle of planning multiple tickets or guides. This tour’s flexible schedule and smooth logistics make it appealing for visitors who want a snapshot of Malta’s islands without committing to multiple excursions.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise is best suited for travelers who want a relaxed, scenic day exploring Malta’s nearby islands without fuss. It’s perfect for those who enjoy boat rides, photo stops, and a quick splash in the Blue Lagoon. If you’re on a budget and want to maximize your time, this offers a good balance of sightseeing, comfort, and fun.

However, if you’re craving an in-depth, guided exploration of Gozo, or prefer a less crowded experience, you might want to consider alternative options. The trip’s short land stops and limited time ashore mean it’s more about seeing highlights than enjoying the islands’ culture.

This tour provides a beautiful, enjoyable introduction to Malta’s islands, with enough flexibility and stunning scenery to make it worthwhile.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes boat transfers from Sliema to Gozo and Comino, plus land transport in Gozo to two key stops.

How long do we stay at Blue Lagoon?
You’ll have 90 minutes from April to October, and around 60 minutes in winter, which is enough for swimming, sunbathing, or just admiring the view.

Can I rent snorkeling equipment?
Yes, equipment is available for rent onboard at about $5 per set. Many recommend bringing your own gear if you prefer comfort.

Is there food onboard?
Food and drinks are not included, but there is an onboard bar where you can purchase snacks and beverages.

Do I need to book tickets in advance?
Yes. It’s advisable to book around 12 days in advance as this tour is popular, especially in peak season.

What is the boat like?
The boat is equipped with bathroom facilities, a sun deck, a waterslide, and swimming ladders—making it fun and comfortable for all ages.

Is this suitable for families?
Absolutely. The waterslide and the scenic cruise make it a fun day out for families, although parents should keep an eye on young children during swimming.

Are the stops guided?
The bus stops in Gozo are not guided tours—they’re simply transport with some sightseeing stops. You’ll need to explore independently.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and a hat. A waterproof camera or phone protector is also recommended for the Blue Lagoon.

Is there any cancellation policy?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the trip for a full refund. Weather cancellations are also covered, with options for rescheduling or refund.

This cruise combines ease, scenic beauty, and the thrill of being at sea. With good value and plenty of photo-worthy moments, it’s a smart choice for those wanting a taste of Malta’s stunning islands without the fuss.