Imagine spending a full day on a traditional Turkish gulet schooner cruising the turquoise waters around Malta, with stops at Comino’s Blue Lagoon and a secluded bay in Gozo. This 7.5-hour tour, offered by Fernandes via V. Tabone Travel, combines stunning scenery, enjoyable stops, and plenty of comforts like a buffet lunch with unlimited drinks. We love the way this trip offers a balance of relaxation, entertainment, and local charm—perfect for those wanting a taste of Malta’s iconic coastal beauty without the hassle of planning every detail.
One of the standout features is the freedom to swim or sunbathe at each stop—whether on the boat or on land—giving you genuine downtime amid breathtaking views. The lunch buffet and open bar are also big pluses, making it easy to indulge in local wines and beers while soaking in the scenery. However, a potential downside is that the return transport can be chaotic if you’re not prepared for a busy and unorganized bus transfer, as one reviewer pointed out. This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive, hassle-free day on the water, especially if they enjoy good food, comfortable cruising, and scenic stops.
If you’re after a relaxed yet scenic way to see Malta’s coast and its neighboring islands, and don’t mind a bit of variability in the journey, this cruise could be just right. It’s especially suitable for those who value authentic experiences—like the chance to relax in clear waters—over structured sightseeing.
Key Points
- Scenic sailing around Malta’s coast, Comino, and Gozo.
- Relaxed stops at Blue Lagoon and a secluded Gozitan bay for swimming and sunbathing.
- All-inclusive: buffet lunch, open bar, snacks, and restroom facilities on board.
- Convenient transport from most Malta accommodations.
- Authentic experience with plenty of time for swimming, relaxing, and taking in stunning views.
- Potential chaos in return transport—be prepared for possible delays or disorganization.
In-Depth Review of the Fernandes Cruise to Blue Lagoon and Gozo
Enjoy being on the water? Here are other boat experiences we've looked into in Valletta
Setting the Scene: What You Can Expect
Starting from Sliema, a lively town on Malta’s northeastern coast, you’ll hop aboard a classic Turkish gulet schooner. The boat itself offers a comfortable setting, with a friendly crew and plenty of space to stretch out and enjoy the views. The tour runs between spring and autumn, with daily departures, so you’ll want to check availability for your preferred date.
The trip’s purpose is straightforward: take you on a leisurely cruise around Malta’s coastline, with two major stops—first at the Blue Lagoon in Comino, then at a quiet bay in Gozo. Along the way, you’ll see panoramic cliffs, coves, and inlets, making it a visual treat even when you’re just sitting back with a drink.
The Itinerary: Breaking Down the Day
The tour begins with a pickup service from over 80 Malta locations, including hotels, resorts, and popular landmarks. If staying near Sliema, you can also make your way directly to the mooring opposite the Sliema Hotel by ST Hotels—it’s all about convenience.
Once on board, the vessel sets sail along the north-east coast of Malta, offering regular updates and commentary about the sights, which adds a layer of context to the scenery. The initial part of the voyage provides an opportunity to admire Malta’s rugged coastline, with views that are as much about the geography as the sea life.
First Stop: Comino’s Blue Lagoon
After about two hours of cruising, the first major highlight is the Blue Lagoon in Comino. The water here is famously crystal-clear, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or just relaxing on deck. We loved the way the water’s transparency makes you feel like you’re floating on air, with the limestone formations and vivid blue hues creating an almost surreal scene.
You’ll have approximately 90 minutes here to dive in, sunbathe, or explore. The reviews highlight the beauty of this spot, with one saying: “Everything was perfect. Wonderful experience and perfect crew!” This stop is the main draw for most travelers, especially if you enjoy being in or near water.
More Great Tours NearbySecond Stop: Secluded Gozitan Bay
Next, the boat anchors in a secluded bay in Gozo for another 90-minute break. The exact location varies depending on conditions, but it’s generally a quieter alternative to the Blue Lagoon. It offers similar opportunities for swimming and relaxing, although some reviews indicate it’s a less lively spot—“a bit boring after the Blue Lagoon,” as one traveler noted. Still, it’s an ideal chance to unwind and escape the crowds, especially if you’re looking for a more peaceful experience.
Lunch and Refreshments
Throughout the day, the crew serves a hot and cold buffet lunch on board, prepared fresh daily. The food is described as delicious, with some reviewers emphasizing the quality and variety. An open bar offers unlimited beer, wine, water, and soft drinks, which keeps the mood light and social.
Along With the main meal, a morning snack and an afternoon fruit snack are provided, ensuring you’re well-fueled and refreshed. The drinks and food are especially appreciated by travelers who want to indulge without fuss—a true value for the price.
The Final Leg: San Blas Bay and Return
After the second swimming stop, the boat heads toward San Blas Bay for a final 1.5 hours of leisure. Known for its golden sands and scenic surroundings, it’s a nice last stop to swim or soak up the sun.
The journey concludes with a roughly 25-minute sail back to Malta, followed by your transport back to your hotel or accommodation. Here is where some travelers report chaos, as the review from Manuela mentions: “The return transport was a disaster,” with bus drivers struggling with English and long waits for the bus to arrive. It’s wise to be prepared for an unpredictable end to an otherwise smooth day.
Why This Tour Works Well
This tour shines in offering travelers a comprehensive taste of Malta’s coastal beauty in one day. You get to visit iconic spots like Blue Lagoon, enjoy luxurious food and drinks, and relax in tranquil bays. The all-inclusive nature simplifies planning—no need to worry about food, drinks, or transportation logistics. The scenic views, combined with comfortable sailing, make it an ideal option for those looking for a relaxing, visually stunning, experience.
Authentic and Relaxed Atmosphere
The friendly crew, informative updates, and the opportunity to swim at your own pace foster a relaxed vibe. We also appreciate the plenty of time at each stop, which avoids the feeling of being rushed—something many tours struggle with.
Considerations and Tips
The chaotic return transport might be a concern if you’re on a tight schedule or dislike long waits. To mitigate this, staying close to the mooring or being prepared for some waiting time can help. Also, if you’re not comfortable with unorganized logistics, this might not be the best choice.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This cruise is perfect for sea lovers, families, or groups wanting a day of scenic relaxation. It’s particularly well-suited for those who enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and good food. If you’re looking for a comfortable, all-in-one experience that covers Malta’s major coastal highlights, this tour offers excellent value. However, if you prefer highly structured, small-group tours or are very sensitive to transport disruptions, you might want to explore other options.
FAQs
- Is transportation included? Yes, pickup and drop-off from most Malta accommodations or the closest point are included, unless you’re staying near Sliema’s mooring, where you can walk directly.
- What should I bring? Bring swimwear, a towel, sun protection, and a hat. The boat has restrooms, but you might want personal essentials.
- Can I swim at each stop? Absolutely. You have about 90 minutes at each main stop to swim, sunbathe, or relax.
- Is the food and drinks included? Yes, a buffet lunch and unlimited drinks (beer, wine, soft drinks) are included.
- How long is the cruise? The entire experience lasts about 7.5 hours, including stops, meals, and transport.
- What if I want to cancel? You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible for changes in your plans.
Final Thoughts
The Fernandes cruise to Blue Lagoon and Gozo offers a relaxing, scenic, and well-rounded way to experience Malta’s coast. With beautiful stops, tasty food, and a friendly crew, it’s especially valuable for travelers seeking a stress-free day on the water. The inclusion of transport, meals, and unlimited drinks makes it a solid value, though be prepared for some logistical hiccups during the return journey.
This tour suits those who prioritize scenic beauty and comfort over rigid schedules, and who want a fun, informal atmosphere with plenty of opportunities to relax by the water. If you’re seeking authentic moments, stunning vistas, and a chance to unwind, this cruise is worth considering.
Enjoy Malta’s dazzling coastlines and azure waters in style—just remember to arrive early, stay flexible, and bring your sense of adventure.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Boat Tours & Cruises in Valletta
- Malta: Sightseeing Shore Excursion for Cruise Passengers
- From Malta: Full-Day Gozo Quad Tour with Lunch and Boat Ride
- Three Cities guided tour including harbour boat tour
- Malta: Private Sailing Cruise
- From Malta: Full-Day Gozo Jeep Tour with Lunch and Boat Ride
- Malta: Private Boat Trip to Comino, Blue Lagoon & Gozo
More Tour Reviews in Valletta
- Valletta: Guided Walking Tour with St. John’s Co-Cathedral
- Southern Beauties: Marsaxlokk and Blue Cave TOUR IN PORTUGUESE
- Valletta: And The Malta Experience (including Cathedral)
- Valletta: Monastery and Secret Garden Guided Tour
- Malta Traveller App (300+ Exclusive Discounts)
- The Ultimate Valletta Food and Market Tour
More Valletta experiences we've covered
- Southern Beauties: Marsaxlokk and Blue Cave TOUR IN PORTUGUESE
- Valletta: And The Malta Experience (including Cathedral)
- Valletta: Monastery and Secret Garden Guided Tour
- Malta Traveller App (300+ Exclusive Discounts)
- The Ultimate Valletta Food and Market Tour
- Valletta – Private Photo Session (English/Polish)
- Malta tour 3Cities , Marsaxlok ,Blue grotto Hagar qim
- Valletta Half Day – Bulgarian Guide
- Malta by Segway: Valletta Experience
- St Julians: Private Speedboat Comino Blue Lagoon and Gozo
- An Insider’s Malta VIP Tour
- Malta half day customised excursions