From St. Julian's: Gozo, Comino, Blue Lagoon by Powerboat

From St. Julian’s: Gozo, Comino, Blue Lagoon by Powerboat – A Practical Guide

Imagine zipping across the shimmering Maltese waters on a powerboat, feeling the ocean breeze against your face as you journey toward two of the archipelago’s most iconic spots. For about $74 per person, this 6-hour tour offers an exciting, flexible way to explore Malta’s sister islands of Gozo and Comino.

The tour departs from St. Julian’s, a lively hub with plenty of cafes and bars, making it easy to start your adventure on a relaxed note. You’ll visit Gozo’s main harbor, enjoy free time to explore at your own pace, then hop to the famous Blue Lagoon in Comino for swimming, sunbathing, or just soaking in the views. It’s a day packed with stunning scenery, authentic island charm, and the thrill of a speedboat ride.

Two things stand out about this experience. First, the expertise of the guides—notably Captain Abe, who is praised for being both professional and fun, adding a layer of safety and friendliness that makes the trip even more enjoyable. Second, the spectacular scenery—think crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and dramatic sea caves—that really give you a feel for the beauty of Malta’s coastlines.

One possible consideration is the timing and logistics around the Blue Lagoon’s access pass, which is a government requirement from May 2025 onwards. If you’re keen on stepping ashore at the Lagoon, you’ll need to plan ahead to secure your pass; otherwise, you might be taken to a nearby bay instead. This is an important detail for those wanting the full Blue Lagoon experience.

This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers, families, or groups of friends who love scenic boat rides and want a flexible day exploring Malta’s islands. It’s perfect if you don’t mind a bit of independent exploration during your free time, and are okay with the lack of guided commentary at each stop.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Flexible itinerary with free time in Gozo and Comino for personal exploration.
Expert guides like Captain Abe enhance safety, fun, and local insight.
Fast-paced but thorough visit to two major islands in one day.
Stunning views of crystal-clear waters, sea caves, and scenic coastlines.
Government pass requirement for Blue Lagoon access—plan ahead.
Not guided at each stop—your free time allows for personalized discoveries.

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Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

The experience begins with a morning departure from St. Julian’s at around 10:30 AM, setting the tone for a lively day on the water. The speedboat ride from the start is a highlight, as it feels less like a tour and more like an adventure—fast, exhilarating, and offering an immediate sense of freedom. The rapid transfer to Gozo’s main harbor, Marr Harbour, is a practical touch that saves time, giving you about two hours to explore this charming island at your own pace.

What makes the time in Gozo stand out? It’s a chance to experience a less tourist-heavy side of Malta, with authentic villages, local cafes, or perhaps a quick walk along the waterfront. Since the time is relatively short, you’ll need to prioritize what interests you most—be it a quick stroll, a photo stop, or a quick bite. The reviews highlight that the guides are friendly and knowledgeable, which helps to make the most of your limited free time.

At around 1:00 PM, the boat departs for Comino, a tiny but striking island famous for its Blue Lagoon. Here, the crystal-clear waters beckon for swimming, snorkelling, or simply relaxing on the white sandy beach. The Blue Lagoon is renowned for its vibrant cyan waters, which are often described as dazzling and perfect for memorable photos. The experience here is largely self-directed—there’s no guided commentary—so you’re free to wander, sunbathe, or dip into the waters at your leisure.

A notable feature is the Blue Lagoon’s government-mandated access pass. From May 2025, all visitors who want to step ashore need to secure a pass beforehand. This might seem like an extra step, but it’s understandable given the popularity of the site. If you don’t have your pass, the boat will take you to Santa Marija Bay, where you can still enjoy the scenery but won’t be able to access the Lagoon itself.

The tour’s afternoon segment includes a visit to the sea caves as you head back toward St. Julian’s. These caves, carved by the sea over centuries, provide breathtaking views and photo opportunities that many find memorable. The boat’s speed allows you to enjoy these sights without the long waits or crowded boat tours.

The trip wraps up around 4:30 PM back at the starting point, giving you a full day of adventure without feeling rushed. The overall value is noteworthy, considering the included free time in two different locations, multiple boat transfers, and visits to scenic spots all bundled into one affordable package.

What Travelers Say

Feedback from previous travelers paints a clear picture. Many praise the professionalism and friendliness of guides like Captain Abe, who make the experience fun and safe. As one reviewer states, “Captain Abe, Andre and their colleagues were so much fun and professional. Would book again.”

The scenic views are another common theme. “Superb and about the right amount of time in each location—spectacular views,” says Jay. For groups, the day is described as “great fun” and perfect for enjoying Malta’s sunshine, with a relaxed pace that lets you truly soak in your surroundings.

However, some mention that the speedboat can be a bit uncomfortable for longer rides, especially if you’re prone to seasickness or prefer a gentler cruise. That said, the thrill of the ride is often seen as part of the adventure, adding a sense of excitement to the day.

Practical Details and Tips

Transportation: The tour departs from a specific jetty behind the Verdi St. George’s Bay Marina Hotel in St. Julian’s. It’s easy to find—near the underground parking lot with a marked yellow line guiding you to the boat. No need for pickup or drop-off, so plan to arrive a bit early to ensure a smooth start.

Duration and Timing: Starting at 10:30 AM, the entire trip lasts approximately six hours, including free time, boat transfers, and sightseeing. Always check availability beforehand as times may vary.

Price and Value: At $74 per person, the price includes all fuel costs, the boat transfers, and the expert skipper. While food, drinks, and the Blue Lagoon access pass are not included, the overall package offers a good balance of cost versus experience, especially given the unhurried free time and scenic highlights.

What to Bring: Sunscreen, swimwear, sunglasses, hat, comfortable shoes, and motion sickness prevention are recommended. Remember, no large luggage or pet strollers are allowed, making it a hassle-free experience.

Considerations: If you’re especially eager to step ashore at the Blue Lagoon, plan to purchase your government access pass online beforehand. If not, you’ll still enjoy the stunning scenery and a relaxing boat ride.

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Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for adventurous types who enjoy a good boat ride and want to see Malta’s best islands in one go. It’s also great for families or friends looking for a fun day out in the sun, with plenty of free time to explore at your own pace. If you appreciate scenic views, authentic island charm, and a relaxed yet active day, this tour will suit you well.

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Final Thoughts

Travelers looking for a cost-effective, scenic, and flexible way to experience Malta’s stunning islands will find this powerboat tour very appealing. The expert guides and beautiful vistas make it a memorable day, while the independent free time allows for personal discovery.

While it might not be the best choice if you prefer guided tours or longer exploration time, those who enjoy adventure, scenery, and a touch of spontaneity will feel satisfied. Just remember to plan ahead for the Blue Lagoon access pass if that’s your goal, and prepare for a lively, scenic, and fun-filled day on the Maltese waters.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children over 3 are generally allowed, but always check with the provider if you have younger kids or specific needs.

What if I get seasick?
Motion sickness can be an issue; bringing medication or remedies is a good idea. The speedboat ride is fast, but many find it exhilarating rather than uncomfortable.

Can I get off at the Blue Lagoon?
Yes, if you have purchased the government-issued access pass in advance, you can step ashore. Without it, you’ll be taken to Santa Marija Bay instead.

How long is the free time at each stop?
You’ll have about 2 hours in Gozo and a flexible afternoon at Comino, typically around 1 to 2 hours, depending on the schedule.

Are food or drinks included?
No, meals and beverages are not part of the package. You might want to bring water, snacks, or plan to buy something locally.

Is this a guided tour?
No, it’s a self-guided experience during your free time, but the skipper is experienced and can answer questions during the transfers.

What should I bring on the day?
Comfortable shoes, swimwear, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and motion sickness remedies are recommended.

How do I find the meeting point?
It’s behind the Verdi St. George’s Bay Marina Hotel in St. Julian’s, marked by a yellow line leading to the jetty.

What’s the best time to book?
Check availability early, especially if you want the Blue Lagoon access, as passes are limited. The tour departs at 10:30 AM, but times can vary.

Whether you’re after stunning vistas, a fun boat ride, or just a taste of Maltese island life, this tour offers a practical, scenic, and memorable way to see the best of Malta’s waters and islands.

You can check availability for your dates here: