From Sliema/Bugibba: Best of Gozo & Comino Catamaran Tour VT

Imagine cruising along Malta’s scenic coast on a state-of-the-art, eco-friendly catamaran, with the wind in your hair and turquoise waters stretching in every direction. This 7-hour journey from Sliema or Bugibba offers a relaxed way to see Malta’s smaller islands—Gozo and Comino—without the fuss of organizing transport or guides. You’ll visit the iconic Citadel in Victoria, Gozo, and unwind at the famous Blue Lagoon in Comino, all while enjoying the comfort of an air-conditioned vessel with free WiFi and onboard restroom facilities.

What we love about this experience is how it balances sea travel and land exploration. The chauffeur-driven transfers in Gozo are comfortable and hassle-free, giving you time to soak in local sights at your own pace. Plus, the crystal-clear waters of Blue Lagoon really do live up to their reputation—perfect for swimming or simply relaxing on the boat deck. The only caveat is that, since the tour is unguided, you’ll need to do a little homework beforehand to make the most of your free time on land.

This trip suits travelers who enjoy a combination of scenic cruising and independent exploration. If you’re after a straightforward, well-organized day with plenty of opportunities for relaxing, swimming, and snapping photos, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially appealing if you want to see the highlights without the pressure of guided tours or expensive guided group excursions.

Key Points

• Comfortable & eco-friendly catamaran with indoor and outdoor seating options.
• Flexible free time in Gozo’s Citadel and Blue Lagoon for swimming, walking, or relaxing.
• Hassle-free transfers in Gozo, included in the package.
• Must reserve Blue Lagoon access in advance for environmental reasons.
• Unguided experience, perfect for independent travelers.
• Includes WiFi, restrooms, and organized transportation, adding comfort to your day.
• Ideal for those seeking scenic views and a mix of sea and land activities.
• Cost-effective compared to guided tours, offering real value for the price.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point & Arrival

The tour begins from Sliema or Bugibba, two lively seaside towns with plenty of cafés and shops. The exact meeting point can vary based on your booking, but generally, you’ll meet at a designated spot to board a comfortable catamaran. The boat itself is 33 meters long, modern, and eco-friendly, which means you travel smoothly and with a minimal environmental impact—a nice touch for eco-conscious travelers.

The Cruise Across Malta’s North-East Coast

Once aboard, you’ll set off for Gozo, enjoying a 40-minute cruise along Malta’s coast. The views are spectacular, with the chance to see Malta’s rugged shoreline, fishing boats, and perhaps some local sailboats. Whether you choose to sit outside in the fresh air or relax inside the air-conditioned cabin with WiFi, you’ll find the trip enjoyable and comfortable.

Visit to Gozo’s Citadel in Victoria

After arriving in Mgarr Harbour, you’ll enjoy a scenic 20-minute drive to the Citadel in Victoria. This is a highlight for many travelers, offering a glimpse of the fortress city’s impressive walls and narrow alleys. The 1.5-hour stop is unguided, so you can explore at your own pace—climb the ramparts, take photos of the terraced rooftops, or just soak in the atmosphere. The views from the Citadel are worth the visit alone, providing a panoramic vista of Gozo’s lush landscape and the sea beyond.

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Return to Mgarr Harbour and Cruise to Comino’s Blue Lagoon

After your time on land, you’ll hop back onto the same vessel for a 20-minute cruise to Comino, home to the Blue Lagoon. The boat trip itself offers more stunning views, with chances to spot caves and hidden coves along the coast. The highlight, of course, is the Blue Lagoon’s shimmering waters—famous for their crystal-clear, turquoise hue.

Free Time at Blue Lagoon

You’ll have around 105 minutes here, enough time to swim, sunbathe, or explore. The lagoon’s shallow waters are ideal for relaxing or taking a dip, while the surrounding rocky landscape makes for excellent photo opportunities. Keep in mind that Blue Lagoon Access must be reserved in advance—this is crucial for environmental reasons, so plan ahead. You’ll receive a QR code and wristband, which you’ll show to ferry staff and officials.

Return Journey & Practicalities

From Blue Lagoon, the boat heads back to Malta, with a 50-minute cruise to conclude your day. The tour includes organized transport back to your hotel in Sliema or Bugibba, making the whole experience seamless.

Authentic Traveler Insights & Highlights

Our research shows that many travelers, including one reviewer who called it a “perfect day”, appreciate the stunning scenery and relaxed pace. The free time in the Blue Lagoon and Victoria was specifically praised for allowing genuine exploration, not just rushing through attractions. One comment from a traveler noted, “We loved the way we could swim and relax at our own pace—no rush, no guide telling us where to go.”

The comfort and modernity of the catamaran are also frequently appreciated. The availability of WiFi and restrooms onboard makes the cruise more pleasant and keeps everyone connected—especially handy if you’re traveling with friends or family who want to share photos in real time.

Potential Drawbacks

Since the experience is unguided, some travelers might find themselves wanting more historical or local context during their stops. It’s ideal if you’re comfortable exploring independently or have done some prior research. Also, Blue Lagoon access must be booked separately and in advance, so forget the spontaneous swim—planning is key.

Practical Details & Tips

• Bring comfortable shoes and beachwear, as you’ll be walking around the Citadel and swimming in the lagoon.
• Towels are recommended if you plan to swim.
• The tour lasts around 7 hours, so pack sunscreen and a hat for sun protection.
• Since the tour is unguided, consider downloading a map or guidebook of Gozo and Comino beforehand.
• Check the availability of Blue Lagoon Access before booking, as it’s mandatory and only available for the afternoon slot.
• The cost includes the ferry, transfers, and boat cruise, offering good value compared to guided excursions that include guided tours and meals.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect if you’re looking for a relaxed, scenic day that combines boat travel with independent exploration. It’s ideal for sea lovers, sunbathers, and those who appreciate free time to soak in the scenery and swim on their own schedule. If you prefer guided commentary or structured tours, this might not be the best fit. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a balance of comfort and flexibility at a reasonable price.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a well-balanced day of sailing, sightseeing, and relaxing—a smart choice for those wanting to see Malta’s smaller islands without the hassle of guided tours. The modern catamaran, free WiFi, and organized transfers make it a convenient and comfortable way to experience Gozo and Comino.

It’s especially appealing for independent travelers who aren’t afraid to explore on their own or those who value stunning scenery and time for swimming. The advance reservation of Blue Lagoon access can feel like an extra step, but it’s an important one to help protect this fragile environment.

If you’re after beautiful views, a laid-back atmosphere, and the chance to swim in famously clear waters, this tour hits all those marks. It’s an excellent option for a memorable day out on the Maltese waters—relaxing, scenic, and perfectly paced for a day of island-hopping.

FAQ

Do I need to book the Blue Lagoon Access separately?
Yes, you must reserve Blue Lagoon Access in advance via the Malta Tourism Authority’s website, choosing the Afternoon Slot. It’s mandatory and ensures your entry while helping preserve the environment.

Is the tour guided?
No, the tour itself is unguided. You will have some organized transfers and a scenic cruise, but exploration at stops like the Citadel and Blue Lagoon is free time.

How long is the cruise from Malta to Gozo?
The crossing takes approximately 40 minutes, offering scenic views of the coast along the way.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, beachwear, towel, sunscreen, and perhaps a waterproof camera for the Blue Lagoon.

Can I sit inside or outside on the boat?
Yes, the catamaran has both indoor air-conditioned seating and outdoor decks, so you can choose your preferred spot.

Is there WiFi onboard?
Yes, free WiFi is available, so you can share your photos or check messages during the cruise.

How much free time do I get in Gozo and Comino?
About 1.5 to 2 hours in Gozo’s Citadel and roughly 1 hour and 45 minutes at the Blue Lagoon, allowing for swimming, walking, or relaxing.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are available for purchase onboard and on land, but are not included in the price.

Who is this tour best suited for?
Travelers who enjoy independent exploration but want the convenience of organized transfers and scenic cruising, especially those keen on swimming, taking photos, and relaxing in beautiful surroundings.

This experience balances scenic cruising, independent discovery, and comfortable amenities—a great way to enjoy Malta’s islands without the rush or guided tour pressure. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-timer looking to explore Malta’s lesser-known gems, this trip offers a memorable, hassle-free day at sea.

You can check availability for your dates here: