From Sliema or Bugibba: Two Islands Ferry to Comino and Gozo

Malta is famous for its stunning coastlines and historic sites, but its smaller islands—Comino and Gozo—offer a quieter, more relaxed side of island life. This tour, priced at around $41 per person, gives you the opportunity to visit these gems with a 7-hour hop-on hop-off ferry departing from either Sliema or Bugibba. Whether you’re craving a swim in the famous Blue Lagoon, wandering through charming villages, or simply soaking up the Mediterranean atmosphere, this experience combines flexibility with scenic beauty.

What we love about this tour is the freedom to choose your schedule—you can decide whether to start with Gozo or Comino, and hop on or off as you wish. Plus, the onboard amenities like Wi-Fi and restrooms make the journey comfortable. On the flip side, a possible limitation is the relatively short time to explore each island, especially if you’re eager to see everything in depth. This tour is perfect for travelers who enjoy a laid-back pace and want to experience Malta’s islands without a rushed schedule.

If you’re someone who appreciates authentic scenery, scenic boat rides, and flexible sightseeing, this tour could be a highlight of your Malta visit. It’s well-suited for those who don’t mind sharing the boat with other travelers and are comfortable with a self-directed exploration at each stop.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Flexibility: Hop on & off at your own pace, choosing your start point and itinerary.
Scenic Views: Breathtaking coastlines and crystal-clear waters during the ferry ride.
Authentic Experiences: Swim in the Blue Lagoon and explore Gozitan villages.
Comfort & Convenience: Air-conditioned indoor seating, Wi-Fi, and free hotel transfers.
Cost-Effective: At $41, it offers a good value for a full day of island hopping.
Limited Time: Short window for exploration, especially if you want to see a lot.

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Exploring Malta’s Smaller Islands: An In-Depth Look

The Starting Points: Sliema and Bugibba

This tour begins at two popular coastal towns—Sliema and Bugibba—both well-connected and easy to reach from most Malta accommodations. The departure location varies depending on your booking, but both spots provide a lively Mediterranean vibe with cafes, shops, and a bustling waterfront.

The ferry ride is the first highlight, offering stunning views of Malta’s northeast coast. We loved the way the boat smoothly cuts through the Mediterranean, giving us a fresh ocean breeze and a chance to snap photos of Malta’s dramatic shoreline.

The Ferry Experience: Comfort and Views

The catamaran ferry provides both outdoor and indoor seating options. For those who want to feel the wind in their hair and enjoy the scenery, the open deck is ideal. Meanwhile, the air-conditioned interior offers refuge from the sun and a peaceful setting to relax or catch up on some reading.

Most travelers will appreciate the Wi-Fi onboard, which makes sharing photos or checking messages possible even while at sea. Restrooms are available, ensuring comfort on the roughly 1-hour journey to each destination.

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The Choice of Itinerary: Comino or Gozo First

One of the best aspects of this tour is its flexibility. You can choose to start your island-hopping adventure with Gozo, Malta’s quieter and more rural neighbor, known for its fishing villages, historic sites, and peaceful atmosphere. Alternatively, heading first to Comino places you right at the famous Blue Lagoon, where crystal-clear waters and sandy beaches await.

Some reviews mention that travelers like Theresa wish there was more time—arriving at 11:20 am and leaving at 4 pm—to truly explore each island. But for most, the hop-on hop-off system allows a taste of each place without feeling rushed.

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Visiting Comino: The Blue Lagoon

The Blue Lagoon is undoubtedly the star attraction here. The water’s clarity and vibrant turquoise hue draw visitors from all over. We loved the opportunity to swim in these refreshing waters, with plenty of space for sunbathing on the rocks or lounging on the boat.

If you’re an intrepid explorer, you might also find options to visit the nearby caves—though these are only available during summer months (June-September) and require an additional ticket.

Exploring Gozo: A Laid-Back Atmosphere

On Gozitan soil, the vibe shifts to unhurried and authentic. You’ll find charming fishing villages, terraced hillsides, and historic sites. It’s an ideal place to just wander, perhaps stopping for a local meal or browsing artisan shops.

Several reviews commend the knowledgeable guides and the helpful driver—notably Lawrence’s experience of a smooth return, even when the weather turned rough. That kind of local expertise and attentiveness makes the journey more enjoyable and reassuring.

The Value of the Tour

At $41, this experience offers a cost-effective way to see two beautiful islands, especially considering the included free hotel transfers in Sliema and Bugibba. It’s a great option for budget-conscious travelers wanting flexibility and scenic variety without paying for multiple tours or private boats.

Keep in mind, food and drinks are not included, but you can purchase refreshments onboard or on land. The tour doesn’t include the boat trip to the caves, so if that’s on your must-do list, you’ll need to buy tickets separately.

What Real Travelers Say

Reviews reveal that many travelers appreciate the well-organized experience and the stunning views. Lawrence’s comment about a “great day out” and the boat driver’s helpfulness highlights the tour’s positive vibe. Theresa’s note about limited time is worth considering if you’re eager to explore every corner of each island.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is an excellent fit for first-time visitors to Malta who want a broad overview of its smaller islands without the hassle of planning multiple transport modes. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy scenic boat rides, authentic local atmospheres, and the flexibility to explore at their own pace.

If you’re comfortable with self-guided exploration and value comfort, scenic views, and budget-friendly options, this tour will suit you nicely. However, if you’re after in-depth sightseeing or extra time on each island, you might want to consider other options or extensions.

Final Thoughts

In all, this Two Islands Ferry Tour delivers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, authentic experiences, and flexibility. It’s especially suitable for those who prefer to discover at their own pace and soak in the Mediterranean charm. The crystal waters of Comino’s Blue Lagoon and the peaceful villages of Gozo make for memorable highlights.

You’ll appreciate the comfortable boat ride, the helpful guides, and the overall value—all for a reasonable price. Just remember, to get the most out of your day, arrive early, plan to make the most of your limited time, and enjoy the authentic island atmosphere.

FAQ

How long is the ferry ride from Sliema or Bugibba to the islands?
The ferry trip takes roughly an hour each way, providing scenic views along Malta’s coastline.

Can I decide whether to start with Comino or Gozo?
Yes, you can choose your departure point and itinerary—whether you prefer to begin with the Blue Lagoon or the Gozitan villages.

Are there options to explore the caves on Comino?
Yes, boat trips to the caves are available for purchase onboard between June and September.

Is food included in the tour price?
No, food and drinks are not included but are available for purchase on the boat and on land in both islands.

What facilities are on board the ferry?
The ferry offers restrooms, Wi-Fi, indoor air-conditioned seating, and outdoor decks for enjoying the views.

Is hotel transportation included?
Yes, free transfers are provided back to main hotels in Sliema, St. Julian’s, Bugibba, Qawra, and Mellieha.

This tour offers a taste of Malta’s hidden treasures with a flexible, scenic, and budget-friendly approach—an ideal way to expand your Maltese adventure beyond the main island.

You can check availability for your dates here: