Gozo and Comino Islands: Blue Lagoon, Crystal Lagoon & caves

Discovering Malta’s Smaller Islands: A Day with Blue Lagoon, Crystal Lagoon & Caves

Imagine cruising along Malta’s rugged coastline on a comfortable catamaran, your eyes soaking in towering cliffs, hidden sea caves, and turquoise waters. For just $34.83 per person, you get a roughly 6 to 7-hour adventure that takes you from the lively town of Bugibba to the quiet charm of Gozo and the famous Blue Lagoon on Comino. This tour is ideal if you’re craving a mix of scenic boat rides, swimming, and a taste of local town life — all packed into one well-organized day.

What we love most? First, the opportunity to swim in the Crystal and Blue lagoons, both renowned for their crystal-clear waters. Second, the beautiful vistas of Malta’s coast from the water, with chances to photograph impressive caves and rock formations that are tough to spot from land. One thing to keep in mind: the boat can get quite rocky and busy, especially in windy weather, which might affect sensitive travelers.

This tour suits those who enjoy a mix of relaxing swims, scenic cruising, and a bit of exploration on land — perfect for first-timers or anyone wanting a quick Maltese island fix without fussing over transportation. If you’re seeking a calm, picturesque day with plenty of photo opportunities and a few hours on Gozo’s charming streets, this trip could be just right.

Key Points

• Stunning Lagoon Stops: Swim and snorkel in the famous Blue Lagoon and Crystal Lagoon, with options to explore caves.
• Flexible Exploration: Free time in Gozo with included transportation to Victoria, or you can opt for a guided tour.
• Scenic Coastal Cruising: Experience Malta’s sea caves, cliffs, and natural beauty from a comfortable boat.
• Balanced Schedule: Multiple stops with a good mix of relaxation, sightseeing, and swimming.
• Value for Money: For under $35, this tour offers a comprehensive taste of Malta’s islands.
• Weather Dependent: Activities like Crystal Lagoon stops depend on weather conditions, especially outside peak season.

A Detailed Look at the Malta Island-Hopping Experience

Starting from Bugibba: Convenience Meets Comfort

The tour kicks off in the lively tourist hub of Bugibba, where the modern Sea Adventure catamaran awaits. We appreciate the easy access via public transport—just a short walk from bus stops in Valletta, Sliema, or St Julians, making this a hassle-free start for most travelers. The check-in process is smooth, and the crew generally helpful, as highlighted by many reviews. Expect to board a spacious vessel, often a large sailing catamaran, especially during the off-season months, which can accommodate up to 250 travelers.

Exploring Malta’s Coastline and Sea Caves

Once underway, the real treat begins. As the boat cruises close to Malta’s spectacular coast, you’ll see towering cliffs, rugged nooks, and crannies carved by centuries of sea. The highlight is passing by the tiny island of St. Paul’s, marked by a prominent statue of the apostle. For enthusiasts of natural formations, there are stunning sea caves to photograph — an experience both visually impressive and perfect for snapping memorable shots.

Guests frequently comment on the quality of the commentary—though not always loud enough to hear clearly over the engine—adding context to the sights outside. The boat’s underwater viewing window and waterslides are seasonally available and can add extra fun, though not always guaranteed.

Swim and Snorkel in the World-Famous Lagoons

The core of the tour is the swimming stops at the Blue Lagoon and, in season (June to October), the Crystal Lagoon. The Blue Lagoon, with its brilliant turquoise waters, is often described as a “must-see” by travelers, offering ample time (about an hour) for swimming, lounging, and snorkeling. Many reviews emphasize how relaxing and beautiful it is, with some even remarking that the view from the boat gives a perfect vantage point for photos.

The Crystal Lagoon, accessed only by boat, is fringed by steep cliffs, making it a somewhat secretive gem. During peak months, you’ll spend about an hour here, with plenty of opportunities for photos, cave exploration, and even a splash from waterslides—if your boat has them. In the off-season, the stop is cut short to about 15 minutes, mainly for photos and cave visits, which some travelers find less satisfying but understandable given weather constraints.

A Taste of Gozo’s Charm

After the lagoons, the boat heads towards Gozo. The included land transfer takes you from the harbor to the capital city of Victoria. Here, you’re free to explore at your own pace or join a pre-arranged tour. Many visitors appreciate the free time in Victoria—its Citadel offers sweeping views of the island, and the St. George’s Basilica is a highlight, with beautiful marble and ornate artworks.

Some reviews suggest that the time spent on Gozo might feel a bit rushed if you opt to explore on your own, but it’s enough to see the key sights and grab a quick meal or coffee. The two-hour window is tight but offers a glimpse of this quieter, more traditional Maltese island.

Comino and the Santa Maria Caves

The final stop is the island of Comino, famous for its Blue Lagoon but also home to the Santa Maria Caves. Depending on the season and weather, you may be able to disembark and explore or simply view the caves from the boat. The Elephants Head rock formation is a fun highlight on the return journey.

The Return and Overall Experience

As the cruise winds back toward Bugibba, some travelers report the rough sea conditions—especially in windy weather—making the return a little bumpy. Wind and sea sickness were mentioned in reviews, so bringing motion sickness tablets might be wise if you’re prone.

What Travelers Say: Authentic Voices

Reviews paint a broad picture of what to expect. Many praise the friendly and helpful crew, noting their knowledge and attentiveness, especially when dealing with seasick passengers. The scenery and lagoons regularly win high marks, with travelers describing the lagoons as “beautiful” and “worth every penny”.

Some reviewers warn about cramped conditions or the boat not matching promotional photos—particularly the absence of slides or underwater windows if you’re traveling outside peak months. As one reviewer put it, “The boat was not even close to the pictures,” but others had a great time despite this.

The organized nature of the tour, including transportation to Victoria and the well-planned schedule, gets positive feedback. However, a few mention confusing meeting points or miscommunications, so arriving early and confirming details is recommended.

Analyzing the Value

At less than $35, this tour offers a solid value—covering transportation, multiple scenic stops, and free time to explore. The swimming stops are a major draw, especially in summer when the lagoons are at their most inviting. The inclusion of Shuttle to Victoria is a bonus for those wanting a taste of Gozitan life without organizing separate transport.

While some features like underwater windows or slides are seasonal and may not always be available, most travelers find the scenery, swimming, and sightseeing worthwhile. The organized nature and friendly crew also contribute to making this a hassle-free experience.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip suits active travelers who enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and taking photos. It’s perfect if you want to see Malta’s natural beauty from the water and get a quick taste of Gozo without heavy planning. Families with children who love water activities also find it appealing, though the boat can get crowded or choppy. If you’re looking for a relaxed, scenic day with a good mix of activity and downtime, this tour hits the mark.

However, if you prefer a more leisurely or in-depth exploration of Gozo or are concerned about sea sickness, you might want to consider shorter or guided alternatives. Also, if underwater features and slides are your priority, double-check what the boat offers during the season of your visit.

FAQ

How do I get to the departure point?
From Valletta, Sliema, or St Julians, take a bus toward St Paul’s Bay and get off at Parades bus stop. It’s a quick 5-minute walk to the meeting point.

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes swimming stops at Blue Lagoon and, seasonally, at Crystal Lagoon, as well as transport to Gozo’s Victoria and a visit to Comino and the Santa Maria Caves.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included but can be purchased on board.

What gear do I need for swimming?
Snorkel equipment is available for hire at around 5 euros, and lockers are also available for a small fee. Bring your own towels and sun protection.

Can I disembark at Blue Lagoon?
Yes, tickets for disembarking at Blue Lagoon are available from their website or on the boat, if the schedule permits.

How long is the time in Gozo?
You get about 2 hours in Victoria — enough to see the Citadel and grab a quick bite, but not enough for extensive sightseeing.

Is the boat comfortable?
Most reviews say yes, especially if you get there early for a seat. Note that conditions can be rocky in windy weather, so bring seasickness remedies if needed.

Can children join this tour?
Yes, children are allowed but must be accompanied by an adult. The boat often accommodates families, but check the boat’s capacity and conditions if traveling with very young kids.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, water, swimwear, a towel, and perhaps a waterproof camera. Arrive early, especially in high season.

What if the weather cancels the trip?
If weather conditions are poor, the tour could be canceled, and you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

In essence, this boat tour offers a lively, scenic day that encapsulates Malta’s stunning coastlines, lagoons, and historic sites — all at a reasonable price. It’s best suited for those who want a bit of everything: swimming, sightseeing, and a taste of local island charm. While not perfect for everyone, especially in unpredictable weather or for those with specific expectations, it remains a solid option for a memorable Maltese adventure.