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

Exploring Malta’s Water Wonders: Gozo, Blue Lagoon, Comino, Caves & St Paul’s Islands

A boat trip around Malta is an absolute must for any visitor wanting to see the island’s most iconic sights from the sea. This 7-hour cruise, offered by Mermaid Cruises for around $34.57 per person, takes you to the breathtaking Blue Lagoon, the historic St. Paul’s Islands, the charming Gozo, and the rugged caves of Comino. With a small boat capacity of just 48 people, it offers a more intimate experience than the typical crowded tours.

What we love most about this trip is the ability to venture inside the sea caves—something larger boats can’t do—plus the onboard Wi-Fi, which keeps you connected and sharing your adventure in real time. We also appreciate the ample free time on land at each stop, allowing genuine exploration rather than a rushed sightseeing blitz.

Of course, as with any tour, there are considerations to keep in mind. The Blue Lagoon can get crowded, and the schedule is quite full, so you’ll want to plan your expectations accordingly. This cruise is perfect for independent travelers, families, or anyone eager to enjoy Malta’s scenic coastline and island charm at a reasonable price.

Key Points

• Small-group comfort: The boat’s capacity of 48 ensures a relaxed atmosphere and better access to caves.
• Authentic experiences: Inside the caves and swimming in the Blue Lagoon provide unique moments not available on larger tours.
• Flexible free time: You get plenty of time to explore on land at each stop, making it ideal for independent travelers.
• Good value for money: The tour covers multiple destinations for a reasonable price, including snorkeling and photos.
• Onboard amenities: Restroom, Wi-Fi, and a snack bar make the trip comfortable and convenient.
• Weather-dependent cave entry: Cave visits are weather permitting, so the experience can vary based on conditions.

The Detailed Experience

Starting Point and Duration

The adventure begins at 9:30 am in the charming seaside town of Bugibba, with boarding closing at 9:50 am. The boat departs promptly at 10:00 am, so punctuality is key. As we set off, the crew’s friendly attitude and the cozy vessel set the tone for a day of discovery. With a total duration of about 7 hours, this trip balances sightseeing, swimming, and free time.

First Stop: The Blue Lagoon on Comino

The highlight for many is the Blue Lagoon, famous for its ultra-clear waters and picture-perfect scenery. Cruising along the coastline, you’ll love the unobstructed views of Malta’s cliffs and coves. The smaller boat allows us to get inside the caves, offering photo opportunities that larger vessels can’t reach—something visitors consistently appreciate, as one reviewer noted, “You will have the opportunity to take pictures inside the caves.”

Once at the Lagoon, you can swim, snorkel, or just relax on the boat. There’s a snack bar onboard, so grabbing a quick bite and a drink is easy—perfect for refueling after a swim. The shallow, calm waters make it an ideal spot for families or beginners. However, expect some crowds; the Lagoon’s fame means it’s often busy, but staying on the boat to swim from the side helps avoid the throngs, according to one review.

Second Stop: The Island of Gozo

After an hour at Comino, we set sail toward Mgarr Harbour on Gozo. The ride itself is scenic, with the chance to see more caves—such as the Crystal Lagoon Caves or St Mary’s Caves—weather permitting. The boat docks around two hours here, giving you time to explore independently. Whether you want to wander through Gozitan villages, visit local cafes, or just soak up the island’s relaxed vibe, you’ll find plenty to do.

Reviewers praise this part of the trip, noting “plenty of time to explore,” and some mention that the boat offers a chargeable coach transfer for those who want to see more of Gozo’s interior without the hassle of renting a car. The free time is a real plus, allowing visitors to wander at their own pace rather than rushing through.

Last Stop: St Paul’s Islands

The final leg is a brief 30-minute stop at St. Paul’s Islands. Here, you can take a quick swim or hike up to see the St. Paul’s statue, a peaceful spot with a touch of history. The captain sounds the horn to signal time to head back, and the journey home offers picturesque views of the Maltese coast, with some reviewers calling it “a great way to end the day.”

Ending and Return

The boat returns to Bugibba around 5:00 pm, wrapping up a full, active day. Many travelers consider this a well-organized, enjoyable way to see Malta’s coastal beauty, especially for those who prefer a more personal boat experience rather than large, crowded ferries.

What’s Included and What to Consider

This tour includes restroom facilities, onboard Wi-Fi, and the option to enter caves if weather allows—an important point, as cave visits are weather-dependent. Food isn’t included, but the onboard snack bar offers simple options, and snorkeling equipment can be rented for a cash deposit if you want to explore underwater.

You’ll need to register on the Maltese Government website to access Comino, which is free but essential. The tour is designed for most travelers, with service animals allowed and a maximum group size of 48, creating a friendly, manageable environment.

Potential Drawbacks

While the small boat allows for close-up cave visits, it also means that weather impacts the experience more than on larger ships. Some reviews mention that the Blue Lagoon can be crowded and commercialized, but that’s part of its charm and popularity. Also, the schedule is tight—a lot is packed into one day—so don’t expect deep cultural or historical insights, which aren’t the focus here.

Authentic Experiences from Travelers

Many reviews highlight the value and quality of the trip. One traveler called it “a very nice and extensive tour,” praising the “great experience” and the care given to families with babies. The small vessel made a difference, as one reviewer pointed out, “Much nicer than the big crowded boats,” and staying on the boat to avoid the crowds at Blue Lagoon was appreciated.

Others noted the crew’s friendliness, with comments like “great vibes,” “helpful and professional,” and “doing everything to ensure everyone has a good time.” The flexibility to explore at your own pace on land, combined with the scenic boat ride, made for a balanced day.

A handful of critical reviews mention things like the boat leaving earlier than scheduled or the trip being canceled due to bad weather—reminding us that safety always comes first, and weather can impact plans. The company’s transparency about cancellations and refunds is reassuring.

Who is This Tour Best For?

If you’re looking for affordable, well-organized access to Malta’s most popular spots, this tour is a solid choice. It suits independent travelers, families, and small groups wanting a relaxed pace, with plenty of time to swim, explore, and take photos. It’s especially good if you prefer a more intimate boat experience than the large commercial vessels.

However, if precise historical details or cultural stories are what you’re after, this tour might not satisfy that curiosity. It’s primarily about scenic beauty, fun water activities, and relaxed sightseeing. Be prepared for some crowds at Blue Lagoon, and remember that cave visits depend on weather conditions.

Final Thoughts

This Gozo, Blue Lagoon, Comino, Caves & St Paul’s Islands cruise offers a practical, enjoyable way to see Malta’s stunning coastlines and islands without breaking the bank. The small boat, friendly crew, and focus on authentic experiences like cave visits and swimming make it a highlight for many travelers.

The tour’s value lies in its combination of scenic views, free time, and the chance to explore at your own pace. It’s a perfect choice for those who want a flexible, fun-filled day with good amenities and memorable moments.

While it’s not a deep dive into Maltese history, it delivers plenty of natural beauty and relaxed adventure—ideal for families, solo travelers, or groups seeking a hassle-free, scenic day on the water.

FAQ

Is lunch included in this tour?
No, lunch is not included. However, there is a snack bar onboard where you can purchase food and drinks.

Do I need to bring snorkeling equipment?
Snorkeling equipment is available for rent with a cash deposit, but bringing your own might be more comfortable.

Can I visit the caves inside the boat?
Yes, weather permitting, the small boat allows entry into the caves for better photo opportunities and views.

What should I wear?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and comfortable clothing suitable for a boat trip and outdoor exploration.

Is there free time on land?
Yes, you’ll have sufficient free time to explore Comino, Gozo, and St Paul’s Islands at your leisure.

What about the weather?
Cave visits depend on weather conditions; if the weather is bad, cave entry might be limited or canceled, but the rest of the trip remains enjoyable.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 15 days ahead, especially in peak season, to secure a spot and plan accordingly.

This Malta boat tour blends scenic beauty, relaxed exploration, and good value, making it an appealing choice for soaking in the island’s coastal charm without the fuss. Whether you’re a solo traveler eager for adventure or a family seeking memorable fun on the water, this cruise hits the right notes.