Malta: Around Comino Cruise and Gozo Jeep Tour with Lunch — A Detailed Review
When you think about Malta, you might picture sunbaked ruins, historic towns, and crystal-clear waters. This tour offers a practical way to see some of the most iconic spots—Comino and Gozo—in one full day, with the added bonus of enjoying a buffet lunch with local wine and a jeep safari that takes you off the beaten path. At around $81 for roughly 6.5 hours, it’s a solid choice for travelers eager to combine boat rides, scenic stops, and a lively land adventure.
What we love most about this experience is the stunning scenery at the Blue Lagoon—swimming in those turquoise waters is unforgettable—and the knowledgeable guides who make the journey more than just a sightseeing trip. The local guide Johnny and others are often praised for their friendliness and insights, making the stops more meaningful.
One consideration is that the group sizes and overcrowding on the boat might dilute some of the intimacy and comfort—especially if you prefer a more relaxed environment. Also, the hotel pickup isn’t always perfect for everyone, which can add some logistical hassle.
This tour suits adventurous couples, small groups, or solo travelers who want a comprehensive day that hits the highlights and offers some genuine local flavor. If you’re comfortable with moderate physical activity and enjoy short walks and scenic stops, you’ll find this trip engaging and worthwhile.
Key Points
- Diverse itinerary including boat rides, jeep safaris, and scenic stops
- Expert guides enhance your understanding of the islands
- Swimming and snorkeling at Blue Lagoon are highlights
- Good value for the experience, food, and transportation
- Crowding on boats and jeeps can impact comfort
- Suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness
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An In-Depth Look at the Malta: Comino & Gozo Tour
This tour is a well-organized way to see Malta’s neighboring islands without the hassle of planning multiple trips yourself. It combines scenic water excursions with land-based explorations of less-visited sites, giving you a well-rounded taste of what these islands have to offer.
The Itinerary Breakdown
Start with the boat to Comino, where the famous Blue Lagoon beckons. Expect a roughly 1-hour swim stop in these famously clear waters, perfect for snorkelers or anyone wanting to float in sunshine. According to reviews, this part is often called the “best” of the day, with many travelers loving the chance to dive into the calm, turquoise waters.
Once back on board, the journey continues with a smooth transition to the jeep safari in Gozo. Your guides, such as Johnny or George, take you on a 2-3 hour ride through the island’s scenic countryside, with stops at less touristy spots like the Qala Belvedere and Xagra’s Calypso Cave. These smaller, more intimate sites allow for some great photo opportunities and authentic experiences, as opposed to crowded tourist spots.
The salt pans at Xwejni are another highlight—these traditional seawater evaporation ponds have been used for centuries, and their striking patterns make for memorable photos. Passing by the Ta’ Pinu National Shrine offers both a spiritual and architectural treat, with sweeping views of Gozo’s countryside.
Dwejra Bay provides an opportunity to relax and take in the scenery, with a chance to explore the Inland Sea or just enjoy the stunning cliffs. It’s a peaceful spot where you can reflect on the natural beauty of the island.
Highlights of the Land and Sea Experience
The Blue Lagoon is often cited as the main draw—the waters are famously clear and perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Many reviews mention how beautiful and peaceful this spot is, making it a highlight worth the trip. The water temperature is warm enough for a relaxing dip, and the marine life visible while snorkeling is a bonus.
On the land side, the jeep safari allows visitors to see parts of Gozo that are often missed by larger tour buses. The small, private jeeps are praised for being well-organized and friendly, with guides like Nick and George making the ride lively and informative.
Food and Refreshments
Lunch is included in the tour price, and the buffet features light local dishes and wine, which many find satisfying after a morning of activities. Some reviews mention the lunch’ timing being just right—not too rushed and offering a chance to relax before more sightseeing.
In some cases, snorkeling gear is provided free of charge, making it easier to enjoy the underwater scenery at the lagoon. The availability of water and local wine during lunch is appreciated, adding a relaxed, convivial atmosphere to the day.
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Transportation and Group Size
The pickup from selected hotels helps streamline the start of your day, though some reviews suggest logistical hiccups, such as late pickups or crowded transportation. The boat rides are generally praised but can be busy, with some travelers mentioning overcrowding—particularly on the smaller boats, which are licensed for 44 but often have more than 26 on board.
The jeeps are small and sometimes crowded, which can make the ride a bit cramped, especially if you’re traveling with a group or family. However, most find the personalized experience worth it, with guides making an effort to keep everyone engaged.
The Price and Value
At $81, this tour offers a competitive price point considering the multiple stops, boat rides, lunch, and guided tours. Many travelers feel it provides good value, especially if you enjoy a mix of water activities, scenic drives, and authentic sites. However, some reviews highlight overcrowding and logistical quirks that might detract from the experience for those seeking more comfort or a quieter day.
Authentic Experiences and Hidden Gems
What makes this tour stand out are the lesser-known spots like Calypso Cave and the salt pans, often overlooked on larger tours. These stops give you a sense of local life and natural beauty that isn’t just touristy. Many reviewers comment on the guides’ knowledge, which enriches the trip with stories and historical context.
The Guides
Several reviews highlight the helpfulness and friendliness of the guides, like George and Nick, who share interesting facts and make the journey lively. They seem committed to making your experience enjoyable, whether explaining the history of the Ta’ Pinu church or pointing out hidden viewpoints.
The Crowds and Comfort
While the scenic beauty and organized stops are praised, the overcrowding on boats and jeeps remains a recurring theme. For travelers who value space and comfort, this might be a minor drawback. Still, many accept it in exchange for the value of seeing both islands in one day.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience is ideal for adventurous travelers who don’t mind some crowd and quick stops. If you want a rundown of Malta’s natural beauty and cultural sites in one day, it hits the mark. It’s perfect for families, couples, or solo explorers looking for guided insights and scenic moments.
However, if peace and quiet are your priorities or if you prefer luxurious comfort, you might find this tour a bit rushed or crowded. It’s best suited for those prepared for a full day of activity and eager to maximize their Malta experience with guided insight and local flavor.
The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?
In a nutshell, this tour offers a balanced mix of scenic boat rides, cultural stops, and adventurous jeep safaris—all at a reasonable price. The stunning Blue Lagoon alone makes it worth considering, especially if you’re eager to enjoy authentic, off-the-beaten-path locations.
The guides’ friendliness and knowledge add a personal touch, making the journey more engaging. The included lunch with local wine is a nice touch, offering a break to relax and refuel. Keep in mind that overcrowding might be a concern for some, but most find that the overall value and memorable experiences outweigh this.
This tour is especially suited for active travelers who want to see both islands in one day and aren’t overly bothered by the hustle and bustle. If you’re after a lively, well-organized adventure with plenty of photo opportunities and natural beauty, you’ll find this experience rewarding.
FAQs
Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off from selected hotels, though some reviews mention logistical issues with timing and locations.
How long is the boat ride?
The boat ride to Comino and back can last about an hour each way, with the stops at Blue Lagoon providing around 1 hour for swimming and snorkeling.
Are snorkeling masks and equipment provided?
Yes, the tour includes snorkeling equipment, and some reviews mention that the masks and snorkels are available free of charge.
What is the lunch like?
A buffet lunch with local flavors and wine is included, generally well-received for being filling and appropriately timed for the day’s activities.
Are the jeeps comfortable?
The jeeps are small and sometimes crowded, which might be uncomfortable for some, but guides like Johnny and George are praised for their friendliness and attentiveness.
Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, but children should be accompanied by an adult. The tour involves some walking and water activities, so moderate physical fitness is recommended.
What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.
Final Word
This combined Comino and Gozo tour serves as a fantastic way to pack a lot into one day—crystal waters, scenic drives, and local insights. It’s especially suitable for travelers who want a balanced, active day with opportunities to relax and take in Malta’s natural beauty. While crowds and logistical quirks are worth noting, the value for the price and the chance to taste the islands’ lesser-known sights make it a popular choice. If you’re ready for an energetic, adventure-filled trip that covers both water and land, this tour is worth considering.