Malta: Blue Lagoon, Comino, Gozo & Crystal Lagoon Sea Caves

Malta’s Blue Lagoon, Comino, and Gozo offer some of the most photogenic and inviting waters in the Mediterranean. This 4-hour boat tour from Mgarr Harbour in Gozo takes you across crystal-clear waters, past dramatic coastlines, and into tranquil lagoons, with plenty of opportunities to swim, snorkel, and enjoy breathtaking scenery. The experience is operated by Barbarossa Excursions and Boat Charters, with multiple departure times that suit different schedules, especially in the busy summer months.

What we love most about this tour is how it balances adventure and relaxation. First, the swim stops at both the Blue Lagoon and Crystal Lagoon are the highlights—both are stunning spots where the water is so clear and inviting that you’ll want to linger. Second, the passage by notable landmarks like Elephant Rock, Santa Maria Bay, and Saint Nicholas Bay adds a scenic dimension that makes the whole trip feel like a mini voyage through Malta’s coastal beauty.

A possible consideration is the group size and timing—the tour can get quite popular, especially at the Blue Lagoon, which can be crowded. Also, if you’re prone to seasickness, the boat ride’s sometimes bumpy nature might be worth considering, as some reviews mention the sea conditions can be windy. Still, for anyone craving a day on the water with plenty of swimming and photo opportunities, this trip hits the spot.

This tour is perfect for travelers who enjoy authentic, laid-back experiences. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, you’ll appreciate the friendly crew, the chance to snorkel, and the chance to take in some of Malta’s most iconic spots—including the caves and scenic viewpoints. If you’re looking for a straightforward, value-packed way to see the coast and enjoy the water, this tour won’t disappoint.

Key Points

• Stunning Stops: The Blue Lagoon and Crystal Lagoon are the main attractions, offering crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
• ** Scenic Landmarks:** Pass by Elephant Rock, Santa Maria Bay, and Saint Nicholas Bay, adding memorable photo opportunities.
• Flexible Schedule: Multiple departure times, especially in summer, make it easy to fit into your holiday plans.
• Relaxation & Adventure: Enjoy both tranquil swimming moments and optional cave trips with extra costs.
• Comfort & Convenience: Spacious boat with sun deck, water slide (on specific trips), onboard toilets, freshwater showers, and a full bar.
• Authentic Experience: Friendly guides, authentic boat ride, and ample time at each stop to explore without feeling rushed.

You can check availability for your dates here:

In-Depth Review of the Malta: Blue Lagoon, Comino, Gozo & Crystal Lagoon Sea Caves Tour

The Itinerary and Its Highlights

This boat tour begins at Marfa Jetty in Gozo and sets sail towards the coast of Malta, weaving past several notable spots that are as much about the scenery as they are about the experience. The itinerary is designed to maximize your time in the water and your enjoyment of Malta’s beautiful coastline.

First, you’ll cruise past Elephant Rock, a natural formation that looks remarkably like an elephant’s trunk, perfect for a quick photo stop. The guide, often praised for their knowledge—like Mattia, who is known for sharing fun facts about the rocks—adds a layer of interest to the landscape.

Next, a brief visit to the Santa Maria Caves provides a chance to admire the caves’ natural beauty. These caves are a favorite for quick exploration, but note that if you want to go on land at Comino, pre-booking is necessary, as the tour itself generally offers a scenic cruise without disembarking unless arranged separately.

The boat then passes Santa Marija Bay and other scenic spots, offering spectacular views of Malta’s rugged coastline. These moments are perfect for snapping pictures or just soaking in the scenery, especially if you prefer relaxing on deck with a cold drink from the onboard bar, which many reviews highlight as a nice touch.

The Blue Lagoon: The Star of the Show

The Blue Lagoon is arguably the crown jewel of this trip. It’s beyond photogenic—turquoise waters, soft sandy bottoms, and a peaceful vibe make it a magnet for swimmers and snorkelers alike. The tour allocates 1 hour and 30 minutes here, giving you ample time to splash around or simply lounge on the boat’s deck. Multiple reviews mention the water being perfect for snorkeling; Shelley even noted “lots of fish to see when snorkeling.”

Be prepared for the crowds—this spot is popular, especially in peak season. However, the calm, clear waters and the opportunity to explore the vibrant marine life make it worth sharing the space. Some travelers find that the shorter stop (compared to the 1.5 hours in some reviews) might feel rushed, but overall, most agree it’s enough time to fully enjoy the lagoon.

Crystal Lagoon: A Sparkling Finale

Following the Blue Lagoon, the boat makes a short cruise to the Crystal Lagoon, where swimmers get approximately 1 hour to enjoy the calm, sparkling waters. This area is more dramatic, with impressive cliffs surrounding the lagoon, adding to the sense of seclusion and natural beauty.
Reviews often mention the fun slide here, which is a hit for families and younger travelers. For those wanting a little more adventure, snorkel gear is available with a small deposit, letting you explore the underwater world.

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The Return and Optional Cave Trips

As we cruise back toward Gozo through scenic channels, the views of Fort Chambray and Mgarr Harbour are delightful. The tour ends at Mgarr Harbour, with those staying in Gozo disembarking here, while visitors from Malta are taken back to Marfa Jetty.

Many travelers find the scenic cruise between stops just as enjoyable as the stops themselves, with reviews praising the friendly crew and the comfortable vessel. The boat’s features—sun decks, water slide, and onboard toilets—add to the comfort, although some found the boat a bit crowded during peak times.

The Experience on Board

The boat is described as spacious and well-equipped, with the rooftop deck being the best spot for sunbathing or catching the breeze. The onboard water slide (available on select trips) adds an element of fun, especially for families.
The drinks at the full bar are a nice touch—many reviews mention enjoying cold water, wine, or soft drinks while relaxing in the sunshine. Keep in mind, snacks and additional drinks are available for purchase, but bringing your own might be more cost-effective.

The Pros and Cons

This tour excels in offering value for money and authentic scenic beauty. The friendly, knowledgeable guides enhance the experience, making sure you understand what you’re seeing and offering fun facts that add depth to each stop. Many reviewers like Shelley and Joseph emphasize how seamless and enjoyable the journey feels, with comments like “amazing experience” and “great value.”

On the flip side, crowding at Blue Lagoon can be a challenge, and the shorter trips—like the 3-hour option at 5 PM—may limit time at each lagoon, especially if you want to swim longer or explore more. Also, the boat ride can be rough in windy conditions, so seasickness might be an issue for some.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If your idea of a perfect day involves sun, sea, and scenic views, this trip hits the spot. It’s especially suited to travelers who want ample swimming time, enjoy snorkeling, and are keen to see some of Malta’s best natural formations and lagoons. The flexible schedule and friendly crew make it accessible for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.

It also offers good value—most reviews mention the reasonable price for the experience and the generous time in the lagoons. For those who enjoy authentic maritime atmosphere and don’t mind sharing a boat with others, expect a leisure-filled day with plenty of photo opportunities and a relaxed vibe.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts around 4 hours, with specific timings depending on the departure schedule.

Where does the trip start and end?
It begins at Marfa Jetty in Gozo and ends back there or at Mgarr Harbour, depending on your starting point.

Can I go ashore at Comino?
Yes, but if you want to disembark on land, you need to pre-book your tickets online in advance. The tour itself offers mostly a scenic cruise, with a chance for land visits if arranged separately.

What’s included in the price?
The ticket covers the boat cruise, experienced captain and crew, water slide on certain trips, deck chairs, freshwater showers, toilets onboard, life jackets, water, snorkel gear (deposit required), and stops at the lagoons.

Are drinks and food available?
Yes, a full bar is onboard with drinks available for purchase, but many reviews suggest bringing your own snacks and water for convenience and better value.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most reviews suggest it’s great for families, especially with the water slide and ample swimming time, but check whether the trip includes the specific amenities your children need.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour can be canceled or rescheduled due to weather conditions for safety reasons. It’s best to check the weather forecast beforehand.

How crowded does it get?
Blue Lagoon can be quite busy during peak season, so expect some crowds. The boat’s capacity is designed for comfort, but the lagoons can get lively.

Do I need to bring anything?
Bring a change of clothes, camera, beachwear, cash for extras, and perhaps towels. Sunscreen and hats are also highly recommended.

This boat tour offers a balanced blend of scenic beauty, water play, and local charm. Whether you’re lounging on the deck, snorkeling in the clear waters, or simply enjoying the spectacular views, it’s a great way to experience Malta’s coast from the water. The friendly guides, well-maintained boat, and flexible schedule make it an accessible and memorable outing for most travelers. If you love an active yet relaxed day on the sea with plenty of photo ops and natural beauty, this trip might just be your perfect Malta adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: