From Bugibba: Gozo, Comino and Blue Lagoon One-day (CMO)

From Bugibba: Gozo, Comino, and Blue Lagoon One-day (CMO) – A Detailed Review

If you’re visiting Malta and craving a day away from the busy resorts, this tour offers an intriguing mix of scenic coastlines, charming villages, and crystal-clear waters. For around $42 per person, you’ll get to see Gozo, the smaller sister island packed with rustic charm, Comino, known for its stunning Blue Lagoon, and enjoy a leisurely cruise along Malta’s rugged north coast. The tour, organized by iSeeMalta, is a good introduction to these islands, especially if you’re short on time but still want a taste of Maltese island life.

What we particularly like about this tour is the chance to enjoy free time in Gozo, allowing you to explore at your own pace — whether that’s visiting a cathedral, wandering quaint streets, or grabbing a quick bite. Plus, the Blue Lagoon’s crystalline waters are hard to beat for a relaxing swim and picture-perfect scenery.

However, a word of caution: the experience can feel somewhat rushed, especially if you’re hoping for an in-depth exploration. Some travelers have mentioned that the limited time in Gozo makes it tough to see much beyond the main sights, and the Blue Lagoon can get crowded, detracting from its serenity. This tour suits those who enjoy scenic boat rides and are happy with a snapshot of the islands rather than an exhaustive tour.

If you’re looking for a straightforward, budget-friendly way to see Malta’s famous islands and are okay with sharing the boat with other visitors, this tour could be a good fit. It’s especially suitable for first-time visitors or travelers who want a relaxing day out without the hassle of organizing their own transportation or ferry schedules.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Scenic coastal cruise along Malta’s north coast offers stunning views
• Flexible schedule with free time in Gozo and swimming at Blue Lagoon
• Affordable price point provides good value for a full day of island-hopping
• Crowds at Blue Lagoon may impact the tranquility of your swim
• Limited time in Gozo means you might only see a few highlights
• Travelers should book tickets for Comino in advance due to new regulations

A Thorough Breakdown of the Tour Experience

Starting Point: Bugibba Jetty

The tour begins at Bugibba Jetty, a central and easily accessible spot for many travelers staying in Malta’s northern resorts. The departure is generally in the morning, with the boat setting out along Malta’s scenic north coast, where you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of rugged cliffs, hidden coves, and turquoise waters. The boat itself is a comfortable vessel, suited for a group, with enough space to relax and take in the sights.

The Journey to Gozo

The first destination is Mgarr, Gozo. The boat ride over takes about an hour, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the sea breeze and scenic vistas. Once in Gozo, you’re typically given free time to explore at your own pace, which is a major plus. You might choose to visit the Gozitan Cathedral if you’re quick, or simply wander the charming streets of Mgarr.

One traveler mentioned, “In Gozo, you can barely see the cathedral (even if you take the car that takes you close by),” which highlights how limited the time can be for deeper exploration. Still, the chance to step onto Gozitan soil and breathe its quieter, more rustic air makes this stop worthwhile for many.

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The Cruise to Comino and Blue Lagoon

After returning to the boat, the journey continues to Comino, a tiny island famous for its Blue Lagoon. This is arguably the highlight — a short but spectacular stop where you can swim in its crystal-clear waters, lounge on the sandy shores, or just marvel at the striking contrast between the vivid blue water and the rocky terrain.

Be prepared for crowds — the Blue Lagoon is popular, and some visitors have noted that “there are too many people,” which can diminish the peaceful vibe. You might find yourself “stuck on the steps leading from the boarding point to the top of the cliff,” as one review pointed out, especially if many others are also eager to snap photos or take a dip.

Ending the Day: Return to Bugibba

The tour wraps up in the late afternoon, returning to your starting point. The flexible vessel schedule allows you some breathing room for extra swimming or photo ops before heading back.

What’s Included and the Booking Experience

The tour includes the cruise itself and the flexible vessel schedule, giving you some leeway in your timing. You can reserve your spot online and choose to pay later, which is great for flexible planning. Cancellation is easy too — cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Important notice: As of May 2025, new regulations require visitors heading to Comino to book an access ticket in advance through a designated website. This is crucial to keep in mind; if you don’t book your ticket, you risk being denied disembarkation.

Practical Considerations

• Timing: The tour generally starts early, so be prepared for a day full of sightseeing. The morning slot for Comino is from 07:30 to 13:00, with the afternoon slot from 13:30 to 17:30, depending on your package.
• Group Size: Expect a moderate-sized group, which balances social atmosphere with enough space to relax.
• Crowds: The Blue Lagoon’s popularity means it can get busy, making it less ideal if you’re seeking solitude.
• Time in Gozo: The free time is limited, so don’t expect to see the island’s hidden gems — just the main sights.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This day trip is well-suited for first-time visitors wanting a quick overview of Malta’s nearby islands without the hassle of planning transport. It’s great for budget-conscious travelers who want a scenic, all-in-one experience that includes swimming, sightseeing, and a boat ride.

However, if you’re after a more in-depth exploration or peace and quiet at Blue Lagoon, you might find the crowds and limited time frustrating. It’s also ideal for those who appreciate breathtaking vistas and are happy to spend a good part of the day on a boat rather than exploring inland.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a solid introduction to Malta’s islands, combining scenic views, a refreshing swim, and a taste of Gozitan charm. It’s a value-packed option, especially considering the price includes the boat rides and free time in Gozo. The stunning views along the coast and the Blue Lagoon’s crystal waters are undoubtedly the highlights, making it a memorable day for many.

That said, the crowds at Blue Lagoon and the short time in Gozo are the main drawbacks. If you’re prepared for a somewhat hurried day and don’t mind sharing space with other travelers, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here.

In essence, if you’re looking for a relaxed, scenic outing that offers a taste of Malta’s natural beauty and island life, this trip ticks many boxes. For those seeking more solitude or cultural depth, consider other options or plan additional time in Gozo.

FAQs

How long is the whole tour?
The tour generally lasts a full day, with specific time slots for Comino. Expect to be on the water for most of the day, with some free time in Gozo.

Do I need to book my ticket for Comino separately?
Yes, from May 2025, visitors must book an access ticket for Comino through a designated website. It’s your responsibility to secure this ticket to disembark on the island.

Can I swim at Blue Lagoon?
Absolutely. The clear, calm waters are perfect for a swim. Just be prepared for crowds, especially during peak times.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers the cruise itself and a flexible vessel schedule. You can reserve your spot online and pay later, with a full refund available if canceled 24 hours in advance.

Is there much walking involved?
Not much — the main activity involves relaxing on the boat and short walks at each stop, mainly to the shoreline or viewpoints.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, families can enjoy it, especially if children are comfortable on boats and enjoy swimming. Keep in mind, the limited time may restrict longer explorations.

To sum it up, this one-day island-hopping tour from Bugibba offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, relaxation, and a taste of local charm. It’s a good choice for those who want a straightforward, budget-friendly adventure, with plenty of stunning views and a memorable swim at Blue Lagoon. Just remember — the crowds can be lively, and the time in each place is short, so set your expectations accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here: