Malta: Gozo, Comino, Sea Caves, and Blue Lagoon Cruise

Malta: Gozo, Comino, Sea Caves, and Blue Lagoon Cruise

If you’re looking for a way to see Malta’s coast without spending your whole trip on a crowded tour boat, this Gozo and Comino cruise offers a refreshing, personal experience. For around $32 per person, you’ll hop aboard a small, comfortable boat for about 3 to 4 hours, visiting some of Malta’s most iconic sights like the Blue Lagoon, Crystal Lagoon, and the captivating Sea Caves. Our guides, often described as friendly and knowledgeable, help you soak in the scenery while giving you just enough info to feel connected without the info overload.

What we love about this trip is the small group size, which means fewer crowds at each stop — perfect if you’re after some peace and quiet in the middle of beautiful surroundings. Plus, the freedom to swim, snorkel, and paddleboard in clear, shallow waters is a definite highlight, especially at the Blue Lagoon, where the turquoise waters practically glow. One potential consideration is that the duration at each stop is limited, so if you’re keen to linger longer in one place, plan accordingly.

This cruise suits travelers who appreciate authentic scenic experiences with a personal touch — families, couples, or solo explorers who want to avoid the hassle of big tour groups. If you love exploring caves and beaches with expert guides, and you want a good value trip that covers many highlights without the crowds, this tour will suit you perfectly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Small-group experience ensures personalized attention and easier access to caves and beaches.
• Multiple swim and snorkel stops at the Blue Lagoon, Crystal Lagoon, and Santa Maria Bay offer plenty of opportunities to cool off.
• Includes visits to scenic landmarks like Elephant Rock, Santa Maria Caves, and Halfa Rock with expert narration.
• Price offers excellent value for the variety of sights, activities, and the quality of the boat experience.
• Comfortable amenities on board include shade, toilet, and free gear like noodles and paddleboards.
• Booking flexibility and safety are emphasized with free cancellation and permit inclusion for lagoon visits.

An In-Depth Look at the Malta: Gozo, Comino, Sea Caves, and Blue Lagoon Cruise

Starting Point and Initial Journey

The adventure begins at the Cirkewwa meeting point, behind the kiosk cafe. Descending the stairs behind the cafe, you’ll find your boat, which accommodates up to 24 passengers. This smaller size translates into a more intimate experience, unlike the giant ferries or crowded tour boats. The crew, often praised for their friendliness and professionalism, sets a welcoming tone from the start.

As you leave the dock, your boat takes you past the famous Comino Tower, a structure made iconic by the film The Count of Monte Cristo. This quick sightseeing cruise (about 15 minutes) offers a taste of the coastline’s rugged beauty and historical spots, setting the scene for what’s to come.

The Crystal Lagoon

Your first major stop is the Crystal Lagoon on the western side of Comino. The name says it all — this spot is celebrated for its crystal-clear, vibrant waters. We loved the way the sunlight dances through the shallow, sandy seabed, creating a perfect setting for snorkeling or swimming. The 45-minute stop here provides enough time to dip into the cool water, explore marine life, and even test out a paddleboard if you’re feeling adventurous.

One reviewer noted, “Johnny showed us the most important caves,” highlighting the guides’ local knowledge. The Lagoon’s calm, shallow waters make it ideal for families or those new to snorkeling, and the setting is genuinely picturesque. The water clarity here is often described as stunning — a huge plus for underwater photography or simply appreciating the marine environment.

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The Blue Lagoon

Next up is the Blue Lagoon, perhaps Malta’s most famous swimming spot. The sunlight penetrates the shallow, sandy seabed, creating that iconic bright blue hue. You’ll get about an hour here, which is plenty of time to swim, snorkel among fish, or just relax on the shore with a book or a snack.

Reviews consistently praise the peaceful atmosphere on this smaller boat, contrasting with the large, crowded boats that also visit the lagoon. “If you want to avoid the crowds, this is the way to go,” seems to be the consensus. For those who prefer to stay onboard, it’s easy to do — you don’t have to get in the water if you don’t want to.

From May 2025, visitors will need a QR code to step foot in the Blue Lagoon — a regulation to manage tourist numbers. The QR is free and must be booked in advance, with time slots available for morning, afternoon, or sunset visits. This system aims to manage crowd flow and enhance safety, especially during peak seasons.

Scenic Passages and Landmarks

After Blue Lagoon, the boat makes a quick pass by the island of Gozo, offering great photo opportunities of the Gebla tal Halfa rocks — a promising location for sightseeing. Then, it heads toward Santa Maria Bay, where you’ll have another 45-minute stop to swim, snorkel, or relax on the beach.

Many reviews focus on how less crowded and more relaxed this experience feels. “We had plenty of time to walk around or swim,” one reviewer noted, appreciating the chance to explore without feeling rushed.

The Santa Maria Caves and Elephant Rock

A highlight of the tour is the Santa Maria Caves, where you can admire spectacular rock formations. The guide explains the significance and features of these caves, and it’s easy to appreciate their natural beauty. The Elephant Rock is another popular photo stop — its shape resembles an elephant’s head, and it’s a fun sight to capture.

While the time here is limited to about 10 minutes, it’s enough to snap some photos and marvel at nature’s artistry. One reviewer described this leg of the tour as “something truly magical,” especially when watching the sunset while exploring the caves.

End of the Tour

After a final pass by scenic spots, the boat returns to Cirkewwa. The entire experience is designed to balance sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing, with plenty of informative commentary from the crew, who often receive praise for their professionalism and friendliness.

Practical Details and What You Need to Know

Duration & Price: For $32, you get about 3 to 4 hours of sailing, swimming, and exploring, which many find to be a great value considering the sights covered.

Inclusions: The tour provides free stand-up paddleboards, noodles, and snorkeling gear, plus amenities like a toilet, shade, and life jackets. These little touches make the experience more comfortable, especially in the Maltese heat.

What to Bring: Pack a swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, beachwear, and cash for extras like snacks or rentals. Be aware that snorkeling gear can be rented onboard if you don’t bring your own.

Accessibility & Suitability: The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or people with motion sickness, and it’s not recommended for those over 95 years old.

Booking & Cancellation: You can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance — perfect if your plans shift.

Authentic Experiences and Real Traveler Insights

The positive reviews highlight the guides’ friendliness and local knowledge as a major plus. One comment called Johnny “a lively, polite guy who enjoys his job,” emphasizing the personal connection that small-group tours foster. Travelers also appreciate the opportunity to swim and explore at each stop, rather than being rushed through.

Many reviews mention the stunning scenery, and several note how the smaller boat makes a difference. “We loved the way we could get closer into the caves,” one reviewer said, which is less feasible with larger vessels.

The value for money is repeatedly praised, especially because the tour includes multiple swims, scenic stops, and gear at a competitive price. One traveler summed it up: “This was a fantastic trip, and I’d choose it again in a heartbeat.”

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is perfect for those seeking a relaxed, authentic Maltese coast experience. If you enjoy snorkeling, scenic photographs, and small-group intimacy, you’ll find plenty to love here. It’s especially suitable for families or travelers new to Malta who want a safe, guided tour without the chaos of larger boats.

However, if you’re keen on spending extended time at one spot or have mobility issues, you might find the short stops a bit limiting. Also, those seeking luxury amenities like on-board dining or longer stays may prefer other options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the tour involves swimming and snorkeling, so children comfortable with water should enjoy it. The small group size is family-friendly, but always check with the operator about age restrictions.

What if I don’t want to swim?
You’re welcome to stay onboard during stops, especially at popular spots like Blue Lagoon. The boat is equipped with shade and a toilet for your comfort.

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?
No, gear is available for rent onboard. However, many travelers prefer bringing their own mask and snorkel for better comfort.

How strict is the timing at each stop?
The itinerary is quite structured, with specific times allocated for each location. Guides communicate clearly how long you’ll be on each stop, so plan accordingly.

Are there options for parasailing or other water sports?
Yes, parasailing is available at Blue Lagoon, though it depends on weather conditions and may incur an additional cost.

What about weather considerations?
Malta’s weather is generally good for boating, but wind and waves can affect the experience. The skipper navigates safely, and if conditions are rough, some stops may be shortened or rescheduled.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility challenges.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your travel plans.

Final Thoughts

This Malta coastal cruise provides a well-balanced mix of scenic beauty, fun water activities, and knowledgeable guides. Its small-group format makes it stand out from larger tours, offering a more relaxed, personal experience. The stops at Crystal Lagoon and Blue Lagoon alone are worth the price, especially with the chance to snorkel and paddleboard in such crystal-clear waters. The inclusion of scenic caves and iconic rock formations adds a layer of adventure and photography opportunities.

If you’re after a value-packed, authentic experience that emphasizes scenery and comfort, this tour is an excellent choice. It’s particularly suitable for travelers who want to explore Malta’s coast with flexibility and avoid the crowds often associated with popular spots.

For those who love beautiful scenery, marine activities, and engaging guides, this trip ticks all those boxes. Just remember to book your QR code for Blue Lagoon in advance if visiting after May 2025, and pack your essentials for a fun, relaxing day by the sea.

Get ready to enjoy Malta from the water — an experience that combines stunning views with the freedom to explore at your own pace.

You can check availability for your dates here: