St Paul’s Bay: Comino, Blue Lagoon, Gozo, & Caves Boat Tour

Imagine a day spent drifting along the coast of Malta, stopping at some of the most breathtaking spots in the Mediterranean. For just $29, this full-day boat tour takes you from St. Paul’s Bay to explore Comino, with its famous Blue Lagoon, the island of Gozo, and even a peek at some dramatic sea caves. Guided by friendly crew members and captains, you’ll get a taste of Malta’s diverse landscapes and crystal-clear waters without breaking the bank.

What we love about this trip is how compact and well-organized it feels. The smaller boat size means fewer crowds, making it easier to relax and enjoy each stop. Also, the balance of swimming, sightseeing, and free time on the islands lets you truly soak in the beauty of Malta’s coast. The two main highlights—swimming in the Blue Lagoon and exploring Gozo—are worth every penny.

A possible drawback? The time at each stop can feel a little rushed, especially during the busy Blue Lagoon. If you’re someone who loves to set up camp and really enjoy a place, you might wish for a bit more time. But overall, the experience offers excellent value and a chance to see many of Malta’s must-see sights in a single day.

This tour suits travelers who want a value-packed, scenic adventure with plenty of opportunities to swim and explore. If you enjoy boat trips that are friendly to small groups and appreciate knowledgeable guides and relaxed atmospheres, this is a fantastic choice.

Key Points

Affordable Price: At just $29, this full-day trip offers great value for Malta’s top sights.
Flexible Stops: Stops include Blue Lagoon, Gozo, and stunning caves, with opportunities for swimming and exploring.
Small Boat Experience: The boat’s size ensures a more intimate, less crowded atmosphere.
Excellent Guides: Reviews consistently praise friendly, helpful crew members and informative commentary.
Timing: Most stops are well timed, but Blue Lagoon can get crowded, limiting your swimming time.
Weather Dependence: The caves and some stops depend on weather conditions, which can cause cancellations or changes.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Departure and Meeting Point

The adventure begins in Bugibba, St. Paul’s Bay, where you’ll look for the “The Mermaid” boat, painted in bright blue, white, and red. Boarding starts 30 minutes beforehand, giving you time to settle and get ready for the day. The boat departs promptly, ensuring the schedule stays tight but manageable.

The Boat and Crew

The tour is run by Mermaid Cruises, and reviews highlight the friendly crew and captain who make everyone feel comfortable. The boat itself is described as comfortable and just the right size, allowing for a relaxed experience without feeling crowded, especially once the top deck opens.

The Itinerary Breakdown

First Stop: Comino and Blue Lagoon
Arriving at Comino, you’ll enjoy roughly an hour to explore the island or simply relax on the boat. The Blue Lagoon is the star here—its turquoise waters and fine sandy beaches draw visitors from far and wide. As one traveler put it, “Blue Lagoon was gorgeous, even though it was very busy.” The clear waters are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or just floating around.

Swimming and Snorkeling:
Many reviews mention how swimming in the Blue Lagoon is the highlight, with snorkeling gear available for rent (around €10 security deposit). The water is known for its translucent quality, making underwater viewing a treat. Some travelers comment that time here feels rushed due to crowds, so arriving early or staying longer might make a difference if you want a quieter experience.

Island Exploration and Lunch Options:
You can wander around the island, purchase lunch from local vendors, or simply enjoy the scenery. The mention of purchasing lunch is common, giving you a chance to try some local snacks without heavy restrictions.

Second Stop: Gozo
After Comino, the boat heads to Gozo, Malta’s smaller sister island. You get about two hours to explore, which most reviews agree is a decent amount of time. Options include strolling through the vibrant capital, Victoria, or relaxing by the waterfront. Several reviews emphasize how beautiful and lively Gozo feels, with some travelers choosing to rent a mini bus (optional) to visit the capital or other attractions.

Cultural Touchpoints:
While the tour doesn’t explore deep history, the reviews point out the vibrant local culture and the chance to see traditional Maltese and Gozitian life. There’s time to take photos, grab a snack, or just soak in the scenery.

The Sea Caves and St. Paul’s Island
On the return route, the boat skirts past St. Mary’s Caves and other rock formations, which are especially striking against the sea. Some reviews mention the potential for dolphin sightings, adding a fun bonus to the trip.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Return and Practical Tips

The tour wraps up back at Bugibba, around 5 pm, giving you plenty of time to relax afterward. The crew’s friendly service and informative commentary help enrich the experience, making it accessible even for first-time visitors.

What to Bring:
Travelers should pack sunscreen, a sun hat, swimwear, and cash for extras like snacks, drinks, or optional bus transfers. Since food and drinks are available for purchase, carrying some cash ensures you’re ready for quick refreshments.

Weather and Cave Conditions:
The captain reserves the right to change plans based on weather, and cave visits depend on sea conditions. This flexibility means some parts might be missed if the weather isn’t cooperative, so a flexible attitude is helpful.

Value for Money

At $29, this tour provides a lot of sights and activities packed into a single day. The reviews consistently praise the good value, especially considering the included stops, swimming opportunities, and friendly service. The additional costs—like snorkeling gear (€10 deposit)—are reasonable, and the optional mini bus to Gozo is a nice convenience.

Who Should Take This Tour?

This trip is ideal for travelers who appreciate a relaxed pace but want to see Malta’s highlights. It suits those looking for affordable fun with opportunities to swim and explore. If you’re prone to crowds or prefer longer stays at each site, you might find the limited time at Blue Lagoon and Gozo a bit rushed. However, if your goal is a quick, scenic overview, this tour hits the mark.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most reviews suggest it’s family-friendly, especially since there are opportunities for swimming and relaxing. However, the boat’s size might not be suitable for travelers with mobility issues.

What is the cost of food and drinks?
Food and drinks are not included but are available for purchase on the boat. Be sure to bring cash for convenience.

Can I rent snorkeling equipment?
Yes. Equipment is available to rent for around €10 in cash, with a security deposit.

How long do we stay at each location?
You’ll have about an hour in Comino and two hours in Gozo. These times are generally considered adequate for quick exploration and swimming but might feel rushed if you want a more leisurely visit.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a sun hat, swimwear, cash, and possibly a towel or a change of clothes. If you wish to snorkel, bring your gear or rent on board.

Can I buy tickets in advance?
Yes, booking is recommended, and you can reserve your spot without paying upfront. Just note that the captain may cancel or alter the trip due to weather.

Is the boat crowded?
The boat is described as not overcrowded, especially once the top deck opens. Smaller group size means a more relaxed experience.

Are there options to extend the time at Blue Lagoon or Gozo?
Some reviews mention the desire for longer stays, but the tour schedule is fixed. Extra time might be possible if you skip certain stops or arrange private transportation.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Final Thoughts

This St. Paul’s Bay boat tour offers a well-rounded snapshot of Malta’s stunning coastline, perfect for those craving a cost-effective adventure filled with swimming, caves, and island exploring. The friendly crew, beautiful scenery, and good timing make it stand out among similar excursions. While the short stops may not satisfy those seeking deep dives into each location, it’s an excellent way to tick off Malta’s highlights in a single day.

The tour is especially suited for travelers who want value for money and a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. If you’re comfortable with a busy Blue Lagoon and keen to see Gozo’s charm, this trip will deliver a memorable Maltese experience packed with scenic views and refreshing dips.

Overall, we’d say this trip is a smart choice for first-timers and those pressed for time but eager to enjoy Malta’s natural beauty without fuss. It balances sightseeing, swimming, and cultural glimpses, making it a lively yet laid-back day at sea.

You can check availability for your dates here: