Blue Lagoon Ferry and Caves Tour

Exploring the Blue Lagoon and Caves Tour: A Practical Guide for Travelers

If you’re visiting Malta and craving a quick escape to stunning waters and rugged coastlines, the Blue Lagoon Ferry and Caves Tour offers a straightforward, affordable way to see some of the most iconic sights around Gozo and Comino. For just around $17.45 per person, you get a boat ride that whisks you from Mgarr in Gozo to the famous Blue Lagoon—a stretch of sand and turquoise water that looks almost too perfect to be real. The tour includes a visit to impressive mother nature’s caves, like Window Cave and Crystal Lagoon Cave, giving you a taste of Malta’s rugged coastal beauty.

What we love about this tour are two key things: firstly, the close-up views of caves and natural formations from the boat, which are both photogenic and awe-inspiring, and secondly, the freedom to explore the Blue Lagoon at your own pace. The tour’s flexible duration (ranging from 1 to 6 hours) allows you to tailor your experience whether you want a quick dip or a longer, more relaxed stay.

However, one potential drawback is the organization at the jetty—some reviews mention the jetty being crowded, especially during busy times, which can lead to a chaotic return experience. If you’re sensitive to crowds or prefer seamless logistics, this is worth considering.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want an authentic, no-frills experience that highlights Malta’s natural beauty without a hefty price tag. It’s suitable for those who enjoy a mix of scenic views, a bit of adventure, and a relaxed day by the water.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At just $17.45, it provides a good value for a scenic boat ride around Gozo and Comino.
• Flexible Duration: The tour can last between 1 to 6 hours, letting you decide how much time to spend at each stop.
• Unique Cave Views: Close encounters with caves like Window Cave and Crystal Lagoon Cave provide fantastic photo opportunities.
• Self-Directed Blue Lagoon Visit: You have the chance to explore the famous lagoon at your own pace, ideal for swimming, sunbathing, or relaxing.
• Possible Crowds: Some travelers report crowded jetties and disorganized returns, especially during peak times.
• Weather Dependent: The tour relies on good weather; bad weather might lead to cancellations or rescheduling.

A Detailed Look at What You Can Expect

Starting Point and Overall Logistics

Your adventure begins at the Mgarr harbor in Gozo, where you’ll meet the crew under a distinctive blue umbrella—easy to spot. The ticket includes your ferry ride to Comino and the caves, with language storage available, which can be handy if you’re traveling with gear. The round-trip is straightforward, but keep in mind that the return journey may be crowded, especially if many groups are leaving at the same time.

The Journey to the Blue Lagoon

The boat ride from Mgarr is brief but scenic—you’ll see the coastlines of Gozo giving way to the open sea as you head toward the famed Blue Lagoon. The waters here are iconic for their crystal clarity and turquoise hue, perfect for photos or just soaking your feet in the warm Mediterranean. The tour operates mostly during daylight hours, with the average duration flexible, so you can choose between a quick visit or a longer stay.

The Blue Lagoon

This is the star attraction. The sandy beaches and warm, shallow waters make it a favorite for swimming and lounging. You are free to explore at your leisure, which is a big plus for those who want to avoid rigid schedules. As one reviewer pointed out, “While the travel to Comino was good and had good communication from the host prior to departure, we had a terrible experience getting back from the Island,” highlighting that logistics on return can sometimes be less smooth. Still, most find the lagoon to be a highlight.

Cave and Coastal Highlights

On your way back, the boat skirts past several spectacular caves—notably Window Cave, Crystal Lagoon Cave, and L-Ghar ta’ Bla Saqaf—which you’ll see from close proximity. The tour also passes by Crystal Lagoon Bay, another picturesque spot. These natural formations are often best appreciated from the water, providing fantastic photo opportunities and a sense of untouched natural beauty. The caves are accessible only by boat, and the boat’s proximity allows for great views and photos.

The Cave Experience and Scenic Passages

The caves are an understated highlight, and being taken close by allows you to appreciate their size and natural design without the need for complicated hikes or tours. The boat’s maneuvering near these formations adds a sense of adventure, and you’ll get a sense of Malta’s rugged coastline that’s often missed from land-based tours.

Authentic Experiences and Traveler Feedback

One reviewer shared that, “While the travel to Comino was good and had good communication from the host prior to departure, we had a terrible experience getting back from the Island.” This points to the importance of planning for crowds or potential chaos at the jetty. The tour operator has clarified that this is beyond their control, but it’s worth noting if you prefer a more organized return.

Another traveler appreciated the close-up views of caves and the chance to enjoy the crystal waters at the lagoon, calling it a “great value for the price.” The moderate group size—capped at 24 travelers—helps maintain a sense of intimacy, though the crowds at the jetty can still be an issue during peak times.

Is This Tour Worth It?

For its cost, this ferry tour offers a blend of scenic beauty, natural formations, and flexibility that appeals to budget-conscious travelers or those with limited time. It’s well-suited for families, solo travelers, or couples looking for a straightforward way to see Malta’s coastal highlights without a complex or overly expensive arrangement.

If you’re someone who values small-group experiences, appreciates a photo-friendly perspective, and wants the option to spend as much or as little time at the lagoon as you like, this tour can be a great fit. However, if you’re sensitive to crowds or prefer structured, organized logistics for returning, you might want to prepare accordingly or consider alternatives.

Final Thoughts

This Blue Lagoon Ferry and Caves Tour is an easy, affordable way to enjoy some of Malta’s most iconic sights without breaking the bank. It offers scenic views, natural caves, and a relaxed pace, making it suitable for travelers who prioritize authentic natural beauty over guided tours or extensive itineraries.

While it’s not perfect—especially concerning crowd management during busy times—the experience delivers genuine value. You’ll love the crystal waters and the close-up views of caves, giving you memorable photos and stories to tell. It’s an ideal choice for those who want a simple, scenic escape to the coast, especially if you’re comfortable with some unpredictability at the jetty.

In short, if you’re seeking a cost-effective, scenic journey that highlights Malta’s coastline and caves, this tour is worth considering—just be prepared for the crowds and check the weather forecast. It’s a straightforward way to add some natural wonder to your Maltese itinerary.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
The ticket covers your boat ride from Mgarr (Gozo) to the Blue Lagoon in Comino, as well as the caves you’ll pass along the way. There is also storage for your belongings during the trip.

Are there any extra costs I should know about?
Snacks are not included, and there is no restroom onboard, so plan accordingly. The price listed is the total cost for the ferry and cave views.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts between 1 and 6 hours, depending on how long you choose to stay at the Blue Lagoon and how much time you spend exploring or relaxing.

Where do I meet the tour?
The meeting point is at the VapurGhajnsielem in Malta, right underneath a blue umbrella, making it easy to locate.

Is the tour suitable for children or travelers with mobility issues?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. However, since the tour involves boat travel and walking at the stops, consider your group’s comfort levels.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If the weather is poor, the trip might be canceled or rescheduled, and you’ll be offered a full refund or a different date.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded, so plan accordingly.

Choosing this tour means embracing simplicity, scenic beauty, and genuine natural attractions at a modest price. Whether you’re after Instagram-worthy photos or just want to dip your toes in clear waters, it’s a practical, budget-friendly option that highlights Malta’s coastlines without overcomplication.