From Sliema: Gozo, Comino and Blue Lagoon Cruise

From Sliema: Gozo, Comino and Blue Lagoon Cruise – A Practical Guide to Malta’s Best

This popular cruise from Sliema offers an easy way to see Malta’s nearby islands of Gozo and Comino in one day. For about $40, you’ll get to hop on a boat, visit the Blue Lagoon, explore Gozo’s charming towns, and enjoy some stunning views along the way. I’ve looked closely at the details, reviews, and itinerary to give you a real sense of what this experience offers—and whether it’s worth your time and money.

Two things I really appreciate about this trip are the balanced mix of sightseeing and free time and the friendly, knowledgeable crew that seems to make everyone feel welcome. The stops at the Blue Lagoon and Xlendi Bay promise lots of opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, or just soaking in the scenery. On the other hand, a potential drawback to consider is the possible crowds at Blue Lagoon, especially in peak seasons, which could make it feel a bit rushed or noisy.

Most travelers seem to love the smooth organization and the chance to see multiple highlights in just a single day. Still, it’s worth noting that the cruise doesn’t include hotel transfers or food and drinks, so you’ll want to bring your own snacks or plan to purchase on board. This trip balances affordability with a good variety of experiences, making it ideal for budget-conscious travelers who appreciate a well-structured itinerary.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Affordable value: For around $40, you get a full-day tour including boat rides, stops, and optional bus transfers—great for budget travelers.
• Flexible options: You can choose whether or not to take the bus at Gozo’s stops, giving you control over your pace.
• Multiple highlights: Stops include Mgarr Harbor, Xlendi Bay, Victoria’s Citadel, and the Blue Lagoon, with enough time to explore or relax.
• Knowledgeable crew: Reviews frequently praise the friendly staff, with mentions of guides like Javanese crew members adding a personal touch.
• Stunning scenery: Expect crystal-clear waters at Blue Lagoon, dramatic caves, and panoramic views on the cruise.
• Efficient itinerary: The 7.5-hour schedule is well-paced, balancing travel, sightseeing, and downtime.

If you’re looking to experience Malta’s nearby gems without spending a fortune or going through complicated logistics, this cruise might just be what you need. It’s especially attractive because it combines a boat trip, sightseeing on land, and a relaxing swim at the Blue Lagoon—all in one package.

The journey begins from Sliema’s Luzzu Cruises, where the crew makes getting started straightforward. The boat departs promptly, with the cruise taking you northward past popular landmarks like St. Julian’s Bay, Qawra, and St. Paul’s Bay. As you cruise, I found it helpful that the boat was described as modern and clean, with friendly staff ready to share stories about the sights—an aspect that many reviews highlight as a standout.

The Itinerary: A Well-Structured Day

The day’s itinerary is designed to maximize your time without feeling rushed. You’ll make a series of stops—starting at Mgarr Harbour in Gozo, which serves as the jumping-off point for exploring the island. You can opt for a short bus tour or explore on your own, which is a thoughtful touch allowing flexibility (and a local tip: the bus makes getting to Victoria or Ir-Rabat much easier).

Next, the boat stops at Xlendi Bay, a lovely spot for photos and a quick stretch. The 10-minute stop might seem brief, but it’s enough to take in the cliffs and seaside charm. Then it’s off to Victoria, the capital of Gozo, where you get 80 minutes of free time. You can wander through the shopping streets, admire the Citadel, or just sit and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. One reviewer noted the guides on the boat were very good, providing interesting commentary—making the land visits more engaging.

The Blue Lagoon: The Star Attraction

After exploring Gozo, you’ll head to Comino, where the highlight is the famous Blue Lagoon. You get approximately 1.5 hours here—a decent amount of time to swim, snorkel, or simply lounge on the soft sand. Multiple reviews mention that the water is incredibly clear, perfect for snapping photos or cooling off. Some travelers found the lagoon a bit crowded; as one person put it, “the Blue Lagoon has become very commercialized with food trucks and cocktail vans,” but the natural beauty still shines through.

The boat also visits the Santa Maria Caves, offering great photo opportunities and a chance to marvel at the rugged coastline. The crew’s insights and the captain’s skill in navigating tight spaces have been praised, adding a sense of safety and professionalism to the trip.

Practical Tips: Making the Most of Your Day

• Bring your own towel, comfortable shoes, and sun protection—especially for the land stops.
• Consider the timing—the 7.5-hour duration means you’ll want to pace yourself. Arrive early for a good seat on the top deck, as many reviews suggest this is the best spot for the views.
• No food or drinks are included, so pack snacks or plan to buy on board. Some reviews mention the boat has drinks for sale, but prices may vary.
• Getting on shore at Blue Lagoon requires a free QR code registration (mandatory from May 2025), which is easy to do online after booking.
• Opt for the bus at Gozo stops if you prefer not to walk or wait in the sun—many find it makes exploring Victoria more enjoyable.

Who Will Benefit Most?

This trip is best suited for travelers wanting a cost-effective, well-organized day that hits the highlights. Perfect if you’re short on time but want to see multiple islands, take in scenic views, and enjoy swimming in clear waters. Families, first-timers, or budget travelers will find this offers good value without sacrificing memorable sights.

However, it’s not ideal if you prefer private or slow-paced tours, or if you have mobility issues—the bus option at Gozo isn’t designed for those with mobility impairments. Seasickness could also be a concern, as the boat cruise can be turbulent at times.

If you’re after a full-day, hassle-free way to visit Malta’s nearby islands, this cruise offers solid value. For about $40, you get to combine boat rides, land exploration, and beach time in one convenient package. The friendly crew and organized itinerary make the experience smooth and enjoyable, with plenty of opportunities for photos, swimming, and quick sightseeing on land.

While the Blue Lagoon can get crowded, the natural beauty still impresses, and the stops at Xlendi and Victoria give you a taste of Gozo’s charm. Plus, reviews consistently praise the quality of guides and staff, which adds a warm, personal touch to the trip.

This experience works best for travelers who want to maximize their time and see a lot without overpaying. If you’re comfortable with a group setting, enjoy scenic boat rides, and value the chance to explore rather than just relax on a beach, this tour will serve you well.

FAQ

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended, especially during peak seasons, to ensure you get your preferred departure time and seat on the boat.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
It’s not suitable for those with mobility impairments, and children are only advised if they’re comfortable on boats, as seasickness might be a concern.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but snacks and beverages are available for purchase on board.

Can I get off the boat at Blue Lagoon?
Yes, but from May 2025, you will need to register online for a free QR code to disembark at Blue Lagoon.

How long do I have at each stop?
You’ll have approximately 80 minutes in Victoria, 1 hour and 30 minutes at Blue Lagoon, and brief stops like Xlendi Bay. The schedule is designed to balance exploration and relaxation.

Is the bus transfer at Gozo necessary?
Not at all. It’s an optional add-on during checkout—many guests find it helpful for reaching Victoria quickly, but exploring on your own is also an option.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes for land exploration, a towel, sun protection, and your own snacks if desired.

This cruise from Sliema offers a clever blend of scenery, culture, and beach time, all at a reasonable price. Whether you’re a first-time visitor eager for a quick overview or a seasoned traveler wanting a relaxed day on the water, this trip is worth considering.