Malta: 3 Bay Cruise to Selmun Bay, Blue Lagoon and Gozo

If you’re looking to soak up the best of Malta’s coastline without the hassle of renting a boat or navigating busy beaches, this 3 bay cruise offers a fantastic way to do just that. For around 8 hours, you’ll set sail from Sliema aboard a charming Turkish gulet, exploring three of Malta’s most captivating spots — Selmun Bay, the Blue Lagoon, and Gozo — with plenty of time to swim, snorkel, and relax. You’ll also enjoy stunning Mediterranean scenery along the way and the comfort of a spacious deck, perfect for soaking up the sun.

What makes this cruise particularly appealing? First, the authentic wooden boat adds a sense of adventure and charm that modern speedboats just can’t match. Second, the carefully planned itinerary offers balanced time at each location, giving you a taste of Malta’s diverse coastlines and islands without feeling rushed. However, it’s worth noting that weather conditions can influence your experience — especially if it’s windy, as one review mentioned, but overall, the crew does their best to make the day enjoyable.

This tour suits travelers who love a mix of relaxation and exploration. It’s especially great if you’re traveling with friends or family and want to avoid crowded beaches, since the smaller group size and personalized feel receive praise. If you’re someone who appreciates authentic local experiences combined with beautiful scenery, this cruise will hit the mark.

Key Points

• Authentic Turkish gulet provides a unique and scenic way to explore Malta’s coastline.
• Swim and snorkel in crystal-clear waters at Selmun Bay, Blue Lagoon, and alfa Rock.
• Relax on the deck with plenty of space, enjoying the views and sunshine.
• Includes snorkeling gear and paddleboards, perfect for active travelers.
• Friendly crew and live guides offer insights and safety during the trip.
• Weather can impact experience, especially on windy days, but the crew adapts to keep guests comfortable.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Classic Day on the Water: What to Expect

This cruise is aimed at giving you a full day of marine magic and scenic beauty, all from the deck of a traditional Turkish gulet. Starting in Sliema, you’ll board a beautiful wooden vessel with enough space for everyone to spread out comfortably. The crew, known for their friendliness and professionalism, will set sail after a brief safety briefing, with the Maltese coast fading behind you and the Mediterranean opening up in front.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The day is carefully balanced, with each stop offering a different flavor of Malta’s seaside charm. First, the boat cruises along the coast, giving you stunning views of Malta’s rugged shoreline. As you approach Selmun Bay, you’ll notice its lush greenery and rocky cliffs surrounding a tranquil cove where swimming becomes the main activity. The bay’s crystal-clear waters are perfect for a refreshing dip or snorkeling — and the availability of snorkel equipment makes it easy for everyone to explore underwater life.

One reviewer, Pari, praised the experience, saying, “Very nice cruise, very good captain, few people so you can enjoy it!” This highlights an important aspect of the tour: the smaller group size, which enhances the overall relaxed atmosphere and allows for more personalized service.

Next, your journey takes you to the Blue Lagoon on Comino Island — the star attraction of this trip. Approaching the lagoon, you’ll see turquoise waters shimmering in the sunlight, a picture-perfect backdrop for swimming, snorkeling, or just lounging on the boat. You get about two hours here, which is enough time to explore underwater life, paddleboard, or simply soak up the scenery. The reviews note that, even with the crowd, the setting remains mesmerizing, making it worthwhile.

Afterward, the boat cruises along the rugged coast to alfa Rock in Gozo, where scenic views and a chance for a quick swim or paddleboarding await. The atmosphere here is cozy, with the crew serving drinks and sharing stories, adding a touch of local charm to the experience.

The final leg includes stops at the Santa Maria Caves and Elephant Rock, offering fantastic photo opportunities and a chance to take in the dramatic shoreline from the water. These scenic spots are brief but memorable, giving you a glimpse of Malta’s geological beauty.

The Return Journey

As the cruise winds down, you’ll head back toward Sliema across sparkling waters, with time to reflect on the day’s highlights. Sunset views from the boat are often praised, painting the sky in warm hues. The crew ensures everyone is comfortable and relaxed, making the return trip as peaceful as the start.

The Experience on a Practical Level

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What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes swimming and snorkeling stops, along with snorkel gear and two paddleboards, allowing active travelers to get close to marine life and enjoy some gentle exercise. The friendly skipper and crew are on hand to assist and share insights into the sights, enhancing the experience with local stories and safety tips.

While lunch and drinks aren’t included, snacks and refreshments are available for purchase onboard, making it easy to stay energized without feeling pressured to buy everything. Free WiFi is a bonus for those who want to share their stunning photos or stay connected, although it’s not always guaranteed in remote spots.

Duration, Group Size, and Accessibility

At 8 hours, this cruise offers a full day immersed in Malta’s coastal beauty. The group size tends to be smaller and more intimate, which is appreciated by many travelers who want to avoid large, crowded tours. The boat’s spacious deck and comfortable seating make it suitable for all ages, though travelers should be prepared for sun exposure and bring essentials like sunscreen, hats, and towels.

Price and Value

Considering what’s included — the boat ride, snorkeling gear, paddleboards, and the scenic stops — the price provides good value for a laid-back, well-organized day out. The personalized service and authenticity of the vessel add to the overall experience, making it a memorable alternative to bus or walking tours.

Who This Tour is Best For

This cruise is perfect for travelers seeking a relaxing day on the water with a dash of adventure. It suits those who appreciate authentic vessel experiences over modern speedboats, and who want to explore Malta’s coastlines with an expert crew guiding the way. It’s also great for families, couples, or small groups looking to avoid crowded beaches and enjoy the scenery in a more intimate setting.

If you love snorkeling and paddleboarding, or simply want to unwind on a boat while taking in stunning views, this tour hits all those marks. Reviewers mention the knowledgeable guides and the beautiful scenery as highlights, making it clear that this trip offers both value and authentic charm.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 8 hours, with specific starting times available depending on availability.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks aren’t included, but you can purchase snacks and refreshments onboard during the trip.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is included, making it easy to explore the underwater spots at Selmun Bay, Blue Lagoon, and alfa Rock.

Can I paddleboard during the cruise?
Absolutely. The tour provides two stand-up paddleboards for guests to enjoy during the stops.

Where does the cruise depart from?
The activity begins opposite of Land’s End Boutique Hotel in Sliema.

Is this tour suitable for children or older travelers?
Yes, the spacious deck and gentle pace make it suitable for most ages, but always consider sun exposure and mobility needs.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, swimwear, towel, camera, and sunscreen. Avoid glass objects and pets, as they’re not allowed onboard.

How many people are on the boat?
The group size tends to be small, which adds to the relaxed, intimate atmosphere.

What if the weather is windy or bad?
Weather can influence the experience, especially on windy days, but the crew will do their best to adapt and ensure everyone’s safety and comfort.

This Malta 3 Bay Cruise offers a well-rounded day of adventure, relaxation, and stunning scenery. You’ll love the authentic wooden vessel, the beautiful stops, and the chance to snorkel in clear waters. The boat’s friendly crew and the small group size make this experience feel personal and genuine, far from the crowds of busier tours.

While weather can sometimes be a challenge, most travelers find that the combination of scenic vistas and marine activity provides excellent value for the price. It’s ideal for those who want to see Malta from the water without the fuss of larger tours or crowded beaches. If you’re seeking a gentle mix of exploration and relaxation, this cruise is a fantastic choice.

For travelers who want to connect with Malta’s maritime beauty and enjoy a laid-back day on the water, this tour is hard to beat. Just bring your sense of adventure — and a good sunscreen — and you’ll leave with plenty of memorable moments from your Maltese holiday.

You can check availability for your dates here: