Discovering Malta’s Islands on a Full-Day Three Island Cruise
If you’re looking to see the best of Malta’s coastlines and islands in one day, the Blue Lagoon: Full-Day Three Island Cruise from Gozo offers a well-rounded experience. Priced at $80.95 per person and lasting about 7 hours, this tour takes you around Malta, Gozo, and Comino—three of the archipelago’s highlights. Expect stunning scenery, plenty of opportunities for swimming and snorkeling, plus a tasty buffet lunch on board.
What we really love about this tour? First, the convenience of hotel pickup and round-trip transport—no fussing over how to get to Mgarr Harbour. Second, the variety of scenic stops, especially the Blue Lagoon in Comino, famous for its crystal-clear water and caves, making it a perfect spot for a refreshing swim.
A potential consideration? The day can get quite busy and hot, especially during summer, so packing sun protection and being ready for a long, activity-packed day makes sense. This tour is particularly suited for first-time visitors who want an efficient way to tick off Malta’s top spots while enjoying some relaxing beach time.
Key Points
- Convenience: Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics easier.
- Highlights: Swimming at Blue Lagoon, Paradise Bay, and Crystal Lagoon, with a hearty buffet lunch included.
- Group Size: Max 65 travelers, balancing social fun with comfort.
- Flexibility: Optional caves tour available for €10.
- Timing: Starts early at 8:00 am, so you’ll want to rest up beforehand.
- Ideal For: First-time visitors, short stays, or those keen on combining sightseeing and swimming in one trip.
The Full Experience of Malta’s Islands in One Day
This full-day cruise provides a practical way to enjoy Malta’s stunning coastline with minimal hassle—especially for visitors who don’t want to rent a boat or navigate public transport on their own. The tour departs from Mgarr Harbour at 8:00 am, a time that feels early but is perfect for catching the best light and avoiding the crowds.
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What’s Included and What You’ll Love
One of the best value aspects of this trip? The inclusive lunch, hotel pickup, and drop-off. For $80.95, you’re getting more than just a boat ride—you’re also enjoying a buffet lunch with water and local wine, which keeps you fueled and happy throughout the day.
From reviews, we see that people find the food to be “pretty good” or “adequate,” with some noting that it’s light and fresh, perfect for staying cool in the heat. Several travelers appreciated the nonstop white wine and the variety of choices, which made the experience more enjoyable.
The Itinerary — Scenic Stops and Opportunities
The tour’s stops are carefully curated to showcase the island’s best sights and swimming spots. Here’s a detailed look:
- Blue Lagoon: The star of the day. Located between Comino and Cominotto, this wide natural pool offers rocky and sandy areas, caves, and clear water, ideal for a swim. It’s often called Malta’s “picture-perfect” spot, and the reviews support this. Emma_S mentions, “the views and swim stops were amazing,” highlighting how memorable this location is.
- Armier Bay Beach: Just a short stop, but a beautiful stretch of coast that resembles Blue Lagoon, with its crystal blue water. It’s a peaceful spot to relax and take photos, especially appreciated by travelers seeking scenic beauty.
- Paradise Bay: Located at Malta’s northernmost point, this spectacular beach is praised for its stunning views and clear water. Reviewers like Margaret_v describe it as “one of the most beautiful beaches,” perfect for a quick dip and photo ops.
- Crystal Lagoon: On Comino’s western side, this lagoon offers another pristine swimming spot with calm waters, perfect for snorkelers and swimmers. The hour-long stop allows enough time to enjoy the scenery and water.
What the Reviews Say About the Stops
Many travelers loved the swimming opportunities. Devin_h remarked, “the stops were good and the food was good as well,” and Emma_S emphasized “the views and swim stops were amazing.” Some felt the stops were longer than necessary—Linde_D commented that the hour and 15-minute stay at Blue Lagoon felt a bit too long, suggesting shorter stops might improve the experience.
The Crew and Atmosphere
The crew gets a lot of praise. Rom_T said, “Chris and his crew were nice,” ensuring everyone was safe and having fun. Several reviews mention the crew’s friendliness and professionalism, which adds to the comfort and enjoyment of the trip.
On the downside, some reviews pointed out issues like overcrowding or complaints about the food not being very special. One traveler called it a “canned tour,” citing the large group size (up to 50 people, though the boat is licensed for 99). This can make the experience feel somewhat rushed or crowded, especially during peak season.
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Comfort and Practicalities
The boat is described as “gullet-style,” with shaded areas available for those wanting relief from the sun. Travelers should pack sunscreen, hats, and water. The day can get quite hot, and being prepared helps you enjoy each stop without discomfort.
The tour is suitable for those with moderate physical fitness, as it involves some walking and swimming. Children are allowed but need adult supervision.
The Value of the Tour
Compared to organizing your own trip, this guided experience offers great value, especially with included transport and lunch. If you’re keen on seeing multiple spots without the hassle of self-organizing, this tour simplifies things while giving you enough time at each location.
Authentic Experiences and Traveler Perspectives
The reviews paint a picture of a tour that’s both enjoyable and at times imperfect. Many are thrilled with the scenic beauty and friendly crew. Emma_S notes, “We had a wonderful time,” while others enjoyed the “light cold buffet,” which is tailored to keep travelers comfortable in Malta’s heat.
Some travelers found the stops to be too long—noticing that 1 hour and 15 minutes at Blue Lagoon felt excessive, especially if you’re not a strong swimmer or prefer shorter water breaks. Others mention that after the initial crowd, the boat gets more lively and bustling, which can be fun or overwhelming depending on your preference.
It’s also worth noting that there’s an optional €10 caves tour, which some might find worth the extra cost if you’re interested in exploring caves, but it’s not included in the base price.
What to Expect in Practice
Onboard, you’ll find a lively atmosphere with fellow travelers from around Europe. The boat’s size means you’ll often be with a mix of groups, but reviews show that most are friendly and the crew makes an effort to ensure everyone has fun and stays safe.
The boat’s layout provides shaded areas, but you’ll likely spend much of your time outdoors, enjoying the sun and sea breeze. If you’re prone to sunburn or heat exhaustion, bringing sun protection and plenty of water is advised.
Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?
This cruise is best suited for first-time visitors to Malta wanting a rundown of the islands’ highlights. It’s especially good if you’re short on time but want a taste of everything—the beaches, caves, and scenic views. It also appeals to those who enjoy swimming and snorkeling, with multiple water stops that are praised for their clear, inviting water.
If you’re someone who values well-organized group tours with included meals and transport, this offers a lot of convenience. However, if you prefer an intimate experience or dislike crowded boats, you might find the group size and the long stops less ideal.
Overall, it’s a solid choice for those seeking a day of sunshine, scenic beauty, and relaxing swims with the added bonus of a hearty onboard meal. It balances practicality with enough scenic variety to satisfy most travelers’ appetites for Malta’s natural wonders.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off, making it easy to start and end your day without extra hassle.
How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is approximately 7 hours, starting at 8:00 am, including all stops and onboard lunch.
What’s included in the price?
You get round-trip transport, a buffet lunch with water and local wine, and the boat trip itself.
Are drinks other than water and wine available?
Additional drinks must be purchased separately; they are not included in the tour price.
Can I join if I have limited mobility?
The tour requires moderate physical fitness, especially for swimming and walking on uneven surfaces. It’s best to check with the provider if you have specific needs.
Is swimming safe at the stops?
Most travelers find swimming safe and enjoyable, with the crew ensuring safety. However, always exercise caution and follow crew instructions.
What if the weather is bad?
The tour is dependent on good weather. If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Can I take the caves tour?
Yes, for an extra €10 per person, you can opt for a caves tour—check availability on the day.
What is the group size?
Up to 65 travelers, which balances social atmosphere with space to relax.
How crowded are the stops?
Some reviews mention that after the first stop, the boat gets busier, which can be lively or crowded depending on your preference.
To sum it up, this full-day cruise around Malta’s islands offers an accessible and scenic way to see some of the most iconic spots, enjoy a relaxing swim, and sample good local food. It’s ideal for first-timers, families, or anyone wanting a mix of adventure and comfort in a single day. If you’re eager for beautiful views, lively company, and a taste of Malta’s waters, this tour fits the bill nicely.