Sliema/St. Paul’s: Gozo, Comino & Blue Lagoon Ferry Cruise

Sliema/St. Paul’s: Gozo, Comino & Blue Lagoon Ferry Cruise — A Practical Guide

Imagine a day spent gliding along Malta’s stunning coastline on a modern, air-conditioned catamaran, with stops at some of the most iconic spots in the Maltese archipelago. For just $42 per person, this tour takes you through Gozo’s scenic countryside, the turquoise waters of the Blue Lagoon, and the tranquil island of Comino — all with plenty of free time to explore at your own pace.

What we love most about this experience is the fantastic views of the northern coast, and the flexibility of free exploration in both Gozo and Comino. The boat itself is praised for being spacious, comfortable, and well-equipped with Wi-Fi and toilets, making the journey pleasant even during choppier seas. On the flip side, a potential drawback is the short time allocated in each location, which can feel rushed if you want to really dig into the places you visit.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy a laid-back pace and prefer independent exploration over guided tours. It’s especially good for those on a budget or anyone eager to see Malta’s islands without the hassle of organizing transportation or multiple tickets. If you’re comfortable with a self-guided approach, this could be your ideal Malta day trip.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Flexibility: Free time in Gozo and Comino allows for personal exploration.
• Comfort: The catamaran is modern, spacious, and air-conditioned, ensuring a relaxing cruise.
• Views: Breathtaking shoreline scenery along Malta’s northern coast.
• Cost: A good value at $42, especially considering the included stops and amenities.
• Transport: No guided tour, so you’ll move independently and arrange land transport yourself.
• Restrictions: Not suitable for mobility issues or seasickness.

The Itinerary in Detail

Departure and Boarding

Your day begins at either Sliema Ferries or Buibba Jetty in St. Paul’s Bay. When you book, you’ll select your preferred departure point and time. Most reviews suggest arriving 15-20 minutes early to secure a good seat — a wise tip considering the chaotic boarding process some noted. The boat itself is described as new and spacious, with helpful staff ensuring a smooth start.

Cruising Along Malta’s Northern Coast

Once underway, you’ll cruise past Malta’s beautiful northern shoreline, enjoying panoramic views of rugged cliffs, historic fortifications, and small coves. Many reviewers comment on the spectacular scenery — a real highlight that’s best appreciated from the comfort of the boat’s deck.

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Stop at Gozo’s Marr Harbour

The first stop in Gozo is at Marr Harbour, where you’ll have about two hours of free time. This is your chance to wander independently, hop on a public bus to Victoria (the island’s capital), or hire a taxi to explore beyond. The land transportation in Gozo isn’t included, so you’ll need to budget for this separately — usually around 5 euros for a bus ride to Victoria, as some reviews mention.

What Travelers Say About Gozo

Many travelers find that the two hours in Gozo is just enough time for a quick look around. One reviewer noted, “Gozo was pretty and info on bus was clear,” but others felt the time was too short for a deep exploration. Some recommend booking additional land tours if you want to see more of the island’s highlights, such as the Citadel or local beaches.

Crossing to Comino and Blue Lagoon

Next, you’ll board the ferry again to Comino, where you’ll spend approximately another two hours. This is the star of the trip for most — the Blue Lagoon is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and white sandy bottom. Many reviews describe it as stunning, but note it can get very crowded, especially during peak times or warm weather.

Optional Motorboat Trip

For an additional fee (roughly €15), you can hop on a speedboat to visit the Caves and Crystal Lagoon — an activity many find worthwhile if weather conditions allow. Keep in mind, this is not included in the basic tour, and availability depends on sea conditions.

Final Relaxation and Return

After your time in Comino, the boat will return to Malta, completing the full-day adventure. The entire experience lasts roughly 8-9 hours, including travel time, with plenty of opportunities to relax, take photos, or simply enjoy the breeze and scenery.

Authentic Traveler Experiences

Many reviewers appreciate the friendly staff and the smooth organization of this tour. One said, “The ferry workers were very friendly and helpful,” while others praised the value for money. Some found the shorter time in each location a bit frustrating — “It would be better to visit just one place and really enjoy it,” a traveler mentioned.

The overcrowded Blue Lagoon, especially with party-goers and large crowds, was a common theme. If you’re seeking a quieter, more contemplative experience, this might be a drawback. However, for those wanting a quick glance at Malta’s islands combined with beautiful scenery and casual freedom, it’s hard to beat.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of This Tour

• Arrive early to find a good seat — the boat has a limited number of prime spots.
• Bring cash for land transportation or any optional activities like the motorboat trip.
• Pack essentials: swimwear, towel, sunscreen, sunglasses, camera, comfortable shoes, and a hat.
• Be prepared for crowds at Blue Lagoon — arriving early helps secure a good spot for swimming.
• Book land transport in advance if you wish to explore Gozo more extensively, as this isn’t included.
• Obtain your Blue Lagoon access pass well in advance (by May 2025), per Maltese government regulations.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This ferry cruise offers an excellent way to see the highlights of Malta’s islands without breaking the bank. It’s best suited for budget travelers, independent explorers, or those looking for a relaxing day on the water. Its flexibility makes it ideal for travelers who prefer setting their own pace and don’t mind short stops. If you’re eager to dive into every detail or spend hours in each location, you might want to consider other options or add land tours.

The scenery, the convenience of the boat, and the chance to visit both Gozo and Comino in one day make this a compelling choice. Just keep in mind the crowds at Blue Lagoon and the short time in each place. For a cost-effective, scenic, and easy Malta island-hopping experience, this tour does deliver.

FAQ

Is transportation in Gozo included?
No, it’s not included. You’ll need to pay for land transport separately if you want to explore beyond the harbor, typically around 5 euros for a bus to Victoria.

How long do I get in each location?
You’ll have approximately two hours in Gozo and two hours in Comino. This allows for some sightseeing, swimming, or relaxing, but not for in-depth exploration.

Can I join the motorboat trip at Blue Lagoon?
Yes, there’s an optional motorboat trip to the caves and Crystal Lagoon that costs around €15, payable on location, subject to weather.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, sunglasses, camera, cash, and a hat are advisable for comfort and convenience.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
It’s mainly designed for able-bodied travelers. It’s not suitable for those with mobility impairments or seasickness prone travelers.

How do I get the Blue Lagoon access pass?
You must apply in advance through the government’s official website (blcomino.com) by May 2025, as passes are limited.

What’s the quality of the boat?
The boat is described as new, spacious, and equipped with Wi-Fi, toilets, and air conditioning, making the journey comfortable.

Is the tour guided?
No, this is a self-guided trip with free time at each stop. You’re responsible for your exploration and transportation in Gozo.

What if I want more time in Gozo?
You might consider booking separate land excursions or tours that focus solely on Gozo, as this trip emphasizes quick visits.

Can I book this tour last-minute?
Yes, you can reserve now and pay later, providing flexibility in planning your Malta trip.

In the end, this ferry cruise offers a convenient snapshot of Malta’s islands with the perfect balance of scenery, free time, and affordability. If you’re looking for a relaxed way to see the islands and enjoy some beautiful waters, it’s an experience worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: