Malta: Comino, Gozo, Blue Lagoon, Crystal Lagoon and Caves Tour

If you’re looking for a straightforward way to explore some of Malta’s most iconic sights in one day, this Malta: Comino, Gozo, Blue Lagoon, and Caves Tour offers a practical and enjoyable experience. For around $35.55 per person, you’ll spend about seven hours cruising the coast, swimming in turquoise waters, and getting a taste of island life. The tour departs from Bugibba, and the itinerary includes visits to Comino’s Blue Lagoon, the caves, and a generous stopover in Gozo, with an option to hop on a bus tour to explore the island further.

What we really like about this experience is how it combines stunning natural scenery with good value. The Blue Lagoon’s crystal-clear waters are a major highlight—perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or just soaking up the sun with a cold drink from the onboard cafeteria. We also appreciate the flexibility of exploring Gozo either independently or via an affordable shuttle bus, giving you control over your day. Plus, the boat facilities, including a water slide and sun decks, make the journey comfortable and fun.

However, a key consideration is crowd levels, especially in peak season. Several reviews mention the Blue Lagoon can get quite busy, which might affect your comfort if you’re looking for solitude. Also, the tour involves quite a bit of moving around with limited time at each stop, so it’s best suited for travelers who enjoy a lively, activity-packed day rather than a slow, relaxed pace.

This tour suits those who value value for money, authentic scenery, and a well-organized schedule. It’s perfect for first-time visitors eager to see Malta’s highlights without breaking the bank, but less ideal if you’re seeking a quiet, contemplative experience or want to spend more time exploring each site thoroughly.

Key Points

• Great value: For a budget-friendly price, you get a full day of sightseeing, swimming, and island hopping.
• Stunning scenery: The Blue Lagoon and the caves offer unforgettable views and water experiences.
• Flexible exploration: The option of a bus tour in Gozo provides a shortcut to see key sights without extra hassle.
• Crowd considerations: Expect busy spots, especially the Blue Lagoon, during peak times.
• Facilities onboard: Deck chairs, a water slide, shaded areas, and a cafeteria make the cruise comfortable.
• Authentic experiences: You’ll see notable sites like St. Paul’s Island, the caves, and the capital of Gozo, Victoria.

A Detailed Look at the Tour

This tour offers an efficient way to tick off Malta’s top sights without the stress of planning each detail yourself. Starting at Bugibba Jetty, the boat departs promptly at 10:00 am, heading east along Malta’s northern coast. From the start, you’ll be treated to views of St. Paul’s Islands and the statue of St. Paul, which are not just scenic but also set the tone for the day’s biblical-inspired history. The cruise passes sea caves such as Ahrax Cave and the Santa Maria Cave, giving you a close-up look at Malta’s rugged coastline.

One of the trip’s biggest draws is Comino’s Blue Lagoon, which you’ll reach after cruising the north channel of the island. The boat arrives early, so you have a chance to claim one of the limited deck chairs or shaded seats, which many reviews mention as a smart move. Once moored, you’ll have 1 hour and 30 minutes to swim, snorkel, sunbathe, or just relax on the boat’s top deck with free chairs. The water slide adds a splash of fun, and the crystal-clear waters truly are as breathtaking as photos suggest.

What makes the Blue Lagoon especially appealing is its reputation—as one reviewer puts it, “the water was fantastic,” and another highlights how it’s “absolutely stunning.” The lagoon is a perfect spot for a refreshing dip after the cruise’s scenic drive—something travelers repeatedly rave about. Just be prepared for the possibility of crowds, especially mid-morning, as many other boats aim for the same spot.

After the Blue Lagoon, the tour continues to Gozo, where you’ll arrive at Mgarr Harbour. Here, you can explore on your own or opt for the additional €5 shuttle bus that takes you to Victoria, the island’s charming capital. This stop lasts 1 hour and 30 minutes, giving you just enough time to wander through narrow streets, visit the Citadel, or enjoy a drink while soaking in the local atmosphere. Several reviews suggest this bus option is highly recommended—“recommended for walking up to Victoria and enjoying the scenery,” as one reviewer notes.

On the return journey, the boat cruises past Crystal Lagoon, a favorite among divers for its deeper waters, and offers a chance to see the fjord-like Xlendi Bay. The entire trip wraps up around 5:00 pm, giving you plenty of time to reflect on your day.

What About the Facilities and Extras?

The boat provides crucial amenities: toilets, lockers, shaded and sunny seats, and a cafeteria with reasonably priced snacks and drinks. Reviewers mention the onboard food and beverages as affordable, which is a plus for a full-day outing. The water slide is a hit with kids and adults alike, though some mention the boat is older than others they’ve seen—still, it’s functional and comfortable enough for a day at sea.

For those interested in more adventure, optional extras are available—speedboat rides to small caves for €15, mask and snorkel rentals for €5 (plus €10 refundable deposit), and lockers for €2 (also refundable). These extras can enhance your experience but aren’t necessary to enjoy the core highlights.

How Do Reviews Shape the Experience?

Feedback from past travelers paints a largely positive picture. Many highlight the stunning views and good organization. For example, one reviewer mentions that “the Blue Lagoon part was well organized,” and others praise the value for money—noting that the tasty, budget-friendly food and drinks onboard make the trip even more enjoyable. Several mention the friendly staff and comfortable boat as making the day smooth and memorable.

However, some critics note the crowded nature of certain spots, particularly during the summer months. One review states, “it was extremely crowded,” which might detract from the tranquility if you’re after a peaceful escape. Others mention delays, like the shuttle bus taking longer than expected or the challenge of finding a good seat early.

Despite these minor issues, the overall consensus is that the tour offers fantastic value, especially considering how much of Malta you cover in just a day. The combination of scenery, swimming, and island exploration makes it a popular choice for those wanting a full, active day.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for first-time visitors eager to see Malta’s highlights without the hassle of multiple bookings. It’s especially suited for families, budget travelers, and anyone who enjoys a lively, social atmosphere. If you love swimming and water activities, the Blue Lagoon alone makes it worthwhile.

It’s also perfect if you want a cost-effective way to get a quick taste of Gozo’s scenery and culture. But if you’re seeking a quiet, contemplative day or more time at each site, this tour might feel rushed. Also, if you dislike crowds or prefer less touristy experiences, you might want to visit some sites independently or choose an off-peak time.

The Sum Up

This 7-hour boat tour from Malta packs a lot into a single day, offering stunning scenery, fun water activities, and island exploration at an affordable price. The highlight—without doubt—is the Blue Lagoon’s crystal waters, perfect for swimming and relaxing. The optional bus tour in Gozo adds a nice touch of flexibility, allowing you to tailor the experience to your interests.

The facilities onboard ensure comfort, and the knowledgeable crew help make the day smooth and enjoyable. While busy spots and timing may be a concern during peak season, most travelers find the experience well worth the cost and effort. It’s a great choice for those interested in seeing the highlights without spending a fortune or planning complex logistics.

In essence, if your goal is to enjoy beautiful beaches, see famous caves, and get a taste of both Malta and Gozo in one shot, this tour offers real value and memorable scenery. Just arrive early, bring your own towel, and be ready to enjoy a lively, scenic day at sea.

FAQ

Do I need to book the Blue Lagoon landing pass in advance? Yes, you should get the QR codes for your landing pass from the website before the trip, which helps avoid delays and stress upon arrival.

What should I bring for the trip? Towels are not provided, so bring your own. Snorkel gear and lockers are available for rent, but if you prefer, you can bring your own equipment.

Is there an option to explore Gozo on my own? Yes, you can explore independently in the three-hour stop, or opt for the €5 shuttle bus that takes you to Victoria and a viewpoint.

What if the weather is bad? The tour is dependent on good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll get a full refund or can reschedule.

How crowded does the Blue Lagoon get? During busy times, expect it to be quite lively and crowded, especially if many boats arrive early. Arriving early can help secure a better spot.

Are there any additional costs? Yes, optional extras like speedboat rides, snorkel rentals, lockers, and the shuttle bus are paid separately—mostly cash-based and at the site.

This tour offers a lively, scenic, and affordable way to enjoy Malta’s best-known sights. Whether you’re after a fun-filled day swimming in clear waters or a quick taste of the islands’ charm, it’s hard to beat the value and variety of experiences on offer.