Malta: Full-Day Gozo and Blue Lagoon Cruise

The big draw here is simple: one boat trip gives you Gozo and Comino in the same day. You cruise past St. Paul’s Island and Mellieha, get a short look at Victoria and its hilltop Cittadella, then spend part of the afternoon swimming in the Blue Lagoon.

I like the low price of $45 and the easy plan. You do not have to arrange separate ferries, buses, and island transfers. I also like the chance to see Malta from the water, with dolphins, jellyfish, and fish sometimes visible from the boat.

The main catch is time. About 75 minutes in Victoria is enough to reach the Cittadella and grab a snack, but not enough for a relaxed visit. The boat can also feel crowded, and the upper sun deck costs an extra EUR 10.

Key points to know before booking

• Two islands in one day: Cruise Malta’s northern coast, stop in Victoria on Gozo, then continue to Comino.
• Victoria is a quick visit: You get about 75 minutes of free time, so plan one clear goal, usually the Cittadella.
• The Blue Lagoon is the swimming stop: Bring swimwear and a towel, but expect a popular site rather than a quiet beach.
• Comino now requires a free ticket: Choose the 13:30 to 17:30 slot at blcomino.com before the trip.
• The boat has limited comforts: Onboard facilities are provided, but there is only one small toilet.
• Value is strongest for first-time visitors: At $45, the trip covers transport and both islands, but food, drinks, and snorkeling equipment cost extra.

What this $45 boat trip really includes

At $45 per person, this is priced as a simple sightseeing and swimming day rather than a small, personal tour. You pay for the cruise, transport to Victoria and Qala Belvedere, and the boat’s onboard facilities. Food, drinks, and snorkeling equipment are not included.

I see the price as good if you want an efficient introduction to Malta’s nearby islands. The boat removes the need to work out separate connections to Gozo and Comino, and the day includes both sightseeing and time in the water. You are paying for convenience, not for a detailed guided tour of Gozo.

That distinction matters. The Victoria stop is free time, not a walking tour led step by step through the city. The bus takes you to the capital, then you explore on your own and return at the assigned time. If you want a guide explaining every church, street, and fortification, this is not the right format.

The overall rating is 3.2 from 416 ratings, which fits the experience well. The day can be well organized and enjoyable, especially when the boat runs on time and you know what to expect. The weaker points are the short Gozo stop, crowded transfers, possible delays, and extra charges for some comforts.

Meeting the boat at Sliema Ferries

You need to be at Sliema Ferries opposite McDonald’s by 10:00. Look for the yellow Malta Sightseeing booth. The boat leaves at 10:30, so do not treat the meeting time as optional. You need time to find the booth, check in, and board.

The activity ends back at the same meeting point in the evening. The advertised duration is eight hours, but the exact return time can shift. One reported schedule had the boat returning around 17:00 rather than 16:00, so keep the evening open.

The boat is large, which helps move a full group between Malta, Gozo, and Comino. It also means you should not expect a quiet yacht ride. Seating can be crowded, and a seat near the engine may bring noise and an unpleasant smell. If you care about where you sit, arrive ready to board rather than wandering in at the last minute.

An upper sun deck is available for an additional EUR 10. This is worth considering if you want more sun, a better view, or a place away from the main seating area. The extra charge should be clear in your budget, since it is not part of the $45 fare.

Cruising past St. Paul’s Island and Mellieha

The outward cruise follows Malta’s northern coast, giving you a different view of the island than you get from the roads. You pass St. Paul’s Island and see the Mellieha area from the water before heading toward Gozo.

This part of the day is as much about the ride as the arrival. Sit outside if the weather is comfortable and watch the coast change as the boat moves north. The wind can be strong, even in warm weather. On a cool spring day, the ride may feel cold, so carry a light layer rather than relying on the sun.

The boat ride can also produce unexpected sightings. Fish, jellyfish, and dolphins have been seen from the boat. These sightings are not guaranteed, but they add a pleasant bit of wildlife watching to what is otherwise a straightforward transfer.

The boat provides onboard facilities, but comfort is basic. There is only one small toilet, so plan accordingly before departure and during the longer periods on the water. Food and drinks are not included, so bring your own supplies unless you are happy to purchase them onboard.

There has been confusion about complimentary drinks. Some departures have offered free beer or drinks during a limited window, reported as roughly 11:30 to 13:00, while other departures have not offered the promised drinks. I would not book this trip expecting free refreshments. Carry water and a snack.

Victoria and the Cittadella in 75 minutes

After reaching Gozo, you board a bus to Victoria, the island’s capital. You may also see the city referred to as Rabat. The name can be confusing, but the stop is the same central Gozo visit described here.

You have about 75 minutes to explore. The main sight is the Cittadella, the fortified hilltop area above the city. Its position gives you a useful view over Gozo, and it is the obvious choice if you want to make the most of a short stop.

The timing requires discipline. The bus does not leave you with an open-ended afternoon, and you must return at the agreed time. Walking up to the Cittadella, looking around, taking photographs, and coming back can use most of your visit. You may have time for a quick snack, but not a leisurely meal or a broad tour of Victoria.

I suggest choosing your priority before you arrive. If the Cittadella matters most, go there first. If you prefer a quick look at central streets and a drink, stay lower in the city and avoid spending the whole stop climbing.

Calling this a tour of Victoria can create the wrong expectation. You receive transport and free time, not a detailed guided walk. The audio guide is in English, and the host or greeter speaks English, but you should be prepared to explore independently.

The Gozo portion is the weakest part for anyone hoping to see many sights. You will not have time to cover the island. The trip also does not include the Azure Window, so do not expect that former Gozo landmark to be part of the route.

Returning to the boat for Comino

After your Gozo stop, you return by bus to the boat and continue toward Comino. Bus loading can feel cramped, especially when many people are trying to return at once. Extra buses would make this stage easier, but the basic system is designed to move the group quickly rather than comfortably.

The schedule gives you roughly two hours around the Blue Lagoon, though exact timing can change. That is enough for a swim, some time on the beach, and a little snorkeling. It is not enough for a slow, empty-island afternoon.

The Blue Lagoon is the visual highlight. The water is clear and turquoise, and swimming from the boat or near the shore is the reason many people choose this trip. It is a good place to cool off after the morning’s transport and walking.

Keep your expectations realistic about peace and quiet. The Blue Lagoon is popular, and the area can be crowded. The water remains attractive, but you may spend more time sharing the shoreline and swimming area than sitting alone with a book.

Snorkeling equipment is available to rent, but it is not included. If you already have a mask and snorkel, bring them. Otherwise, budget for rental equipment or simply swim without it. A towel, sunscreen, and secure swimwear are essential.

The new Comino access rule

From May 1, 2025, you need a free ticket to walk on Comino. You must request it online at blcomino.com before the trip and choose the 13:30 to 17:30 time slot.

You receive a QR code after ordering. Comino officials scan it when you arrive, and anyone without the code cannot walk onto the island. You can still swim next to the boat, but that is a much more limited experience.

This is the single most important practical detail. Do not assume that booking the cruise gives you permission to walk on Comino. The free island ticket is a separate step, and you should have the QR code ready before boarding.

The time slot matches the afternoon portion of the cruise. Save the QR code on your phone, and if possible keep a screenshot available in case your connection is poor near the island.

What the boat day feels like

This is an active sightseeing day, but not a strenuous one. The main physical demands are boarding, bus transfers, walking up toward the Cittadella, and getting in and out of the water. Comfortable shoes are more useful than dress shoes, especially during the short Gozo stop.

The boat has sunny outdoor seating, with the upper deck available for an extra fee. The main deck may offer shade, though the exact seating setup can vary. Wind is the bigger issue on the way out, so take a light jacket even when Malta feels hot on land.

Families and casual sightseers may like the simple rhythm: sit on the boat, walk around Victoria, swim at Comino, then return to Sliema. You do not need to plan a complicated route or carry out several ferry changes.

The format is less suited to anyone who dislikes crowds, strict return times, or sales offers. Additional boat rides and snorkeling items may be offered during the day. You can decline them, but the repeated sales pitch may irritate you if you prefer a quiet excursion.

Wheelchair access is listed as available. Since the day also includes buses, boat boarding, and a visit to the Cittadella area, you should confirm the exact arrangements for your mobility needs before booking. Accessibility is provided, but the itinerary itself is not flat or fully independent.

How to get better value from the day

I would pack a small day bag with:

• Swimwear and a towel
• Sunscreen
• Water and food
• Comfortable walking shoes
• A light layer for the boat
• Your Comino QR code
• Money for optional drinks, equipment, or the upper deck

Bring breakfast or an early snack if you tend to get hungry. Food and drinks are not included, and the day has long stretches between the morning departure and the afternoon swim.

Use the Gozo stop with a plan. The Cittadella is the best use of limited time if you want views and a clear sense of place. Do not try to see all of Victoria, eat a full meal, and visit the fortress in 75 minutes.

For the Blue Lagoon, apply sunscreen before you arrive. The open boat and bright water can make the sun feel stronger than it does in town. Keep your belongings together, especially if you leave the boat to swim or walk on Comino.

If you want a more comfortable ride, pay for the upper deck only if the extra EUR 10 feels worthwhile. It is an optional comfort, not a requirement for enjoying the trip.

Who should book this cruise

I would choose this excursion if you have limited time in Malta and want a quick taste of Gozo and Comino without arranging everything yourself. It suits first-time visitors, casual swimmers, families who like a clear schedule, and anyone who values a low upfront price.

It is also a good choice if the Blue Lagoon is your main goal and Gozo is a bonus. The lagoon receives the longer and more relaxed part of the island experience, while Victoria is a brief stop.

I would look elsewhere if Gozo is your priority. A full day on Gozo would give you more time for the Cittadella and other sights. I would also avoid this format if you want a quiet boat, a personal guide, or a flexible schedule.

The trip delivers the most when you see it as transport, scenery, one short city stop, and one popular swimming stop. It does not deliver as well when you expect a full Gozo tour or a secluded beach day.

Should you book the Malta Gozo and Blue Lagoon cruise?

Book it if $45, a large boat, and a tightly planned eight-hour day sound fair to you. The combination of Malta’s north coast, Victoria, and Comino is convenient, and the Blue Lagoon gives the day a strong finish.

Before paying, arrange the free Comino ticket, plan for your own food and water, and treat complimentary drinks as uncertain. Arrive early if you want a better seat, and do not schedule an important evening appointment after the advertised return time.

My final view is positive but measured: good value for a broad overview, limited value for serious sightseeing. The Blue Lagoon is the star, Victoria is a quick taste, and the boat ride ties the two together.

FAQ

Where does the cruise start?

Meet at Sliema Ferries opposite McDonald’s. Look for the yellow Malta Sightseeing booth and arrive by 10:00. The boat leaves at 10:30.

How long does the experience last?

The activity lasts about eight hours and returns to the original meeting point in the evening. The exact starting and return times can vary, so check availability and keep some flexibility.

How much free time do I get in Victoria?

You get about 75 minutes of free time in Victoria, also called Rabat. This is enough for a focused visit to the Cittadella, but not a broad tour of Gozo.

Is the Blue Lagoon included?

Yes. The cruise includes the trip to Comino and time at the Blue Lagoon. You can swim or relax near the beach, subject to the day’s schedule.

Do I need a ticket to walk on Comino?

Yes. From May 1, 2025, you need a free ticket from blcomino.com. Choose the 13:30 to 17:30 slot and keep the QR code ready for scanning on arrival.

Are food, drinks, and snorkeling equipment included?

No. Food, drinks, and snorkeling equipment are not included. Snorkeling equipment is available to rent, and you should bring your own water and snacks.

Is the cruise wheelchair accessible?

The activity is listed as wheelchair accessible. The day also includes boat and bus transport plus a visit to the Cittadella, so confirm the precise arrangements before booking.