Sliema: Gozo/Comino Blue Lagoon Gulet Cruise w/ Lunch+Drinks

Imagine sailing on a traditional Turkish Gullet, gliding past rugged cliffs, stopping for refreshing swims, and enjoying a hearty buffet lunch with unlimited drinks. That’s exactly what this 7.5-hour cruise offers, departing from Sliema and taking you around some of Malta’s most gorgeous spots — the Blue Lagoon, Comino, and the island of Gozo.

The trip, priced reasonably given what’s included, is ideal for travelers looking for a laid-back day at sea, with plenty of swimming, scenic views, and good food. What we love about this experience is how smoothly it is organized — from pickup to return — and how it balances sightseeing with relaxation. Plus, the unlimited drinks and friendly crew make it feel like a true Maltese celebration.

A possible consideration is that the Blue Lagoon can get quite crowded, especially in peak season. If you’re seeking tranquility, you might find the areas a bit busier than expected. Still, for most, the lively atmosphere adds to the fun. This cruise suits those who love a mix of scenic cruising, casual swimming, and social vibes — perfect for families, friends, or anyone wanting a taste of Malta’s marine beauty without the fuss.

Key Points

• Beautiful Scenic Route: Cruise past cliffs, coves, and serene inlets along Malta’s northern coast.
• Highlights at Comino & Blue Lagoon: Crystal-clear waters, soft sand, and vibrant marine life.
• Flexible Swimming Stops: Two swim breaks in secluded bays, with plenty of time to relax and cool off.
• All-inclusiveness: Unlimited wine, beer, soft drinks, and mineral water, with breakfast and snacks included.
• Well-Organized Experience: Pickup, drop-off, and onboard amenities make for a smooth trip.
• Perfect for Relaxation & Socializing: Laid-back atmosphere with good music, friendly crew, and ample space to enjoy the sun.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Setting Sail from Sliema

Starting your day at Sliema Ferries, you’ll want to arrive about 30 minutes early to find the boat — the Fernandes, a traditional Turkish Gullet decked out in polished wood and vibrant sails. The departure is set for around 10:00 AM, though you should confirm your pickup time with the operator, especially if you’re staying at a hotel nearby. The convenience of pickup and drop-off included in the package means you can relax from the moment you step out of your accommodation.

Once aboard, you’ll notice the friendly crew—eager to make your day enjoyable. There’s space to spread out, and the atmosphere is relaxed with some light music, setting the tone for a leisurely cruise. We appreciated how smoothly the boarding process went, with many reviews highlighting the well-organized nature of the trip and attentive staff.

Cruising Past Malta’s Northern Shores

The first part of the trip is all about taking in the views. As you glide along the coast, you’ll see rugged cliffs, secret coves, and pretty inlets that seem almost untouched. The boat moves at a gentle pace, giving you plenty of opportunity to snap photos or simply enjoy the scenery.

You’ll love the way the crew points out landmarks and shares tidbits about the coastline, making the experience informative as well as relaxing. Music and a calm sea make for a perfect start, especially if you’re looking to unwind after a busy morning.

The Blue Lagoon at Comino

The highlight for many is the stop at Comino’s Blue Lagoon. Known for its turquoise waters and white sandy seabed, it truly looks like a postcard. According to reviews, it’s a breathtaking spot — but also popular and crowded, especially in the summer. You’ll have around 45 minutes to an hour here, plenty of time to swim, snorkel, or simply lounge on the boat deck.

The water’s clarity and the vibrant marine life are frequently praised, with travelers noting it’s a great place to cool off. You might also see some adventurous souls taking the speedboat optional trip into nearby caves, for an extra charge. If you decide to explore ashore, remember you need an advance government-issued access pass, which can be a bit of an administrative step but is worth doing if you want to step onto land.

Lunch on Board

After the Blue Lagoon, your crew will serve a delicious buffet lunch. The menu is a mix of hot and cold options, with reviews mentioning plentiful portions and tasty recipes. Many appreciate the home-cooked quality, which feels more authentic than mass-produced fare. Accompanying the meal, you’ll have unlimited wine, beer, soft drinks, and mineral water, making the meal quite the feast.

The relaxed lunch setting is a highlight for many, with the crew ensuring everyone has enough to eat and drink. Reviewers often comment on the friendly service and how the onboard atmosphere feels more like a friendly gathering than a tourist trap.

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Exploring Gozo’s Secluded Bays

Next, the boat heads to Gozo, Malta’s quieter neighbor. Here, you’ll anchor in a peaceful, secluded bay, ideal for swimming and soaking up the sun. Many reviews mention how refreshing it is to dive into calm waters, away from the crowds of the Blue Lagoon. You’ll have another swim stop, with enough time to relax or take a nap on the deck.

This part of the trip is especially appreciated by those who prefer a laid-back environment. The crew often encourages guests to enjoy the surroundings, and many take advantage of the free drinks and soothing music to unwind.

The Return Journey

On the way back, the cruise offers a gentle sail across the Mediterranean, giving you one last chance to admire the views. The atmosphere onboard remains friendly and lively, with some guests noting the DJ’s playlist keeps the mood upbeat.

Most travelers find the overall experience exceeds expectations for the price, especially given the included lunch, drinks, and swim stops.

The main appeal is how well it balances relaxation with adventure. The scenic cruising along Malta’s coast offers plenty of photo opportunities, while the swim stops deliver genuine refreshment. The all-you-can-drink option makes it easy to unwind without constantly reaching for your wallet — probably the best value for a day at sea.

Another favorite aspect is the friendly crew, who are attentive without being overbearing. Many reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and the crew’s effort to make everyone comfortable, which adds to the authentic, welcoming vibe of the cruise.

We also appreciate the quality of the food, especially the buffet lunch. It’s not just a quick snack but a satisfying meal that keeps you energized for the day. The unlimited drinks are a bonus, and some might find the music playlist adds to the relaxed holiday atmosphere.

The main point to consider is crowding at the Blue Lagoon — it’s a popular site, and in peak season, it can get quite busy. If your idea of a perfect day involves quiet solitude, this might be less ideal. Plus, the rough seas on some days can cause seasickness in sensitive travelers, so packing motion sickness remedies is advisable.

Another point is the itinerary flexibility. The cruise may alter the stops depending on weather conditions, which can be disappointing if you had your heart set on a particular spot. Also, you need to request an ashore access pass for Blue Lagoon, which requires some planning ahead.

Finally, the boat can be busy, so if you prefer more space or a private experience, this cruise might feel a bit crowded. Seating is first-come, first-served, so arriving early is recommended.

This cruise is ideal for families, couples, and groups of friends who enjoy a leisurely day on the water. It’s perfect if you’re looking for scenic views, swimming, and a relaxed social atmosphere. The included lunch and drinks add excellent value, especially for those wanting a fuss-free day without multiple expenses.

However, if you’re sensitive to rough seas or prefer quiet, uncrowded spots, you might want to consider your options carefully or choose an off-peak day. It’s also suited for those who like their trips organized and straightforward — the pickup, onboard amenities, and itinerary are all designed to maximize comfort.

Itinerary and Highlights

• Departure from Sliema Ferries: Start your day early, enjoy the scenic sail as you leave the coast behind.
• Scenic coast cruising: Rugged cliffs, inlets, and the chance for photos of Malta’s dramatic shoreline.
• Stop at Blue Lagoon, Comino: Famous for its crystal-clear waters and soft sands. Perfect for swimming and snorkelling.
• Buffet lunch on board: Hot and cold dishes served with unlimited drinks — a filling and satisfying meal.
• Next stop: Secluded bay in Gozo: Quiet waters for swimming and relaxing away from crowds.
• Return sail: Enjoy the last views, music, and drinks as you head back to Sliema.

What Travelers Say

Reviews consistently praise the crew, especially “Captain Bri,” for their friendly attitude and helpfulness. Many describe the experience as “wonderful,” “well-organized,” and “amazing”, highlighting the plentiful food and beautiful scenery. The Blue Lagoon’s turquoise waters are a favorite, though some note it can be crowded.

A few mention rough seas or crowded decks, but overwhelmingly, the trip is considered a good value — with many returning year after year and taking family and friends along.

Practical Tips

• Arrive early for better deck space and seating.
• Bring sunscreen, swimwear, and a towel.
• Request your Blue Lagoon ashore pass in advance.
• Be aware that seasickness might affect some, so pack medication if needed.
• Consider upgrading with optional extras like the speedboat to caves — available on-site for a fee.

This Sliema-based Gulet Cruise offers a full day of scenic sailing, swimming, and good food — all at a reasonable price. It’s a dependable choice for travelers wanting a fun, social, and relaxing way to explore Malta’s waters. The friendly crew, well-organized itinerary, and included drinks make it feel more like a celebration than just a tour.

While the popularity of the Blue Lagoon can mean some crowds, most visitors find the experience captures the essence of a Maltese seaside holiday. It’s especially suitable if you love being on the water, enjoying good company, and soaking up spectacular views.

For those who want a no-fuss, well-rounded day trip with plenty of swimming, scenic vistas, and tasty food, this cruise hits the mark. Just remember to plan ahead for the Blue Lagoon ashore pass and arrive early to secure a great spot on the deck.

Do I need to book the Blue Lagoon ashore pass in advance?
Yes, starting from May 2025, all visitors wishing to step ashore at the Blue Lagoon must obtain an access pass online beforehand. Make sure to select the morning slot when applying.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes pickup and drop-off, the sightseeing cruise on a Turkish Gullet, two swim stops, unlimited drinks (beer, wine, water, soft drinks), a buffet lunch, and snacks.

Can I stay on the boat if I don’t want to swim?
Absolutely. The cruise is flexible. You can relax on deck, enjoy the scenery, listen to music, or chat with the crew. There’s no obligation to swim.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews mention families having a great time. Just keep in mind that the seas can be choppy on some days, and young children should be supervised at all swimming stops.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and cash for optional extras. Also, consider a hat or sunglasses for sun protection.

What happens if the weather is rough?
The operator reserves the right to change the itinerary based on weather conditions. Be prepared for the possibility of less comfortable sailing if seas are rough.

Are there any restrictions?
The tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments or those prone to seasickness. Pets, large luggage, and mobility scooters are not allowed onboard.

What if I miss the pickup?
If you’re staying within walking distance of Sliema Ferries, you’ll need to make your way to the departure point yourself. Arriving early helps ensure you don’t miss the boat.

This Sliema cruise offers a lovely balance of scenery, relaxation, and good Malta-style fun. Whether you’re after stunning photos, a refreshing swim, or just some quality time on a beautifully crafted boat, it’s a solid choice for a memorable day at sea.

You can check availability for your dates here: