Malta: Blue Lagoon, Comino, Gozo & Crystal Lagoon Sea Caves

Exploring Malta’s waters through a boat tour to the Blue Lagoon, Crystal Lagoon, and the scenic sea caves offers a delightful mix of relaxation, adventure, and picture-perfect moments. The experience, provided by Barbarossa Excursions, takes you on a well-paced journey that covers some of the most iconic spots in the Maltese archipelago. With stops for swimming, snorkeling, and sightseeing, it’s an itinerary designed to maximize your time on the water while giving you a taste of Malta’s remarkable coastlines.

Two things I especially appreciate about this tour are the expert guides who bring the story of the islands to life, and the generous amount of time spent at each stop—particularly in the Blue Lagoon and Crystal Lagoon. These are places that truly earn their reputation, and the long stops mean you’re not just rushing through the sights but actually getting a chance to relax and enjoy. A potential consideration is the weather dependency—since the captain can change stops or durations based on conditions, it’s good to be flexible and prepared for possible schedule adjustments.

From the reviews and available details, it’s clear that this tour strikes a good balance between value and experience, making it perfect for those who want an authentic Maltese day out on the water. Just remember to bring essentials like towels and cash for extras—while drinks are available onboard, bringing your own can save you a few euros, especially if you want a snack or a cold drink while lounging on the deck.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Stunning Stops: The Blue Lagoon and Crystal Lagoon are the star attractions, offering clear waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Guides like Mattia and Augustine are praised for their fun facts and friendly approach, making the trip educational as well as enjoyable.
• Ample Time: You get about 1.5 hours at Blue Lagoon and an hour at Crystal Lagoon, giving plenty of opportunity for swimming or just soaking up the views.
• Comfort & Facilities: The boat features sun decks, rooftop chairs, freshwater showers, and clean toilets—important details for a comfortable trip.
• Flexible & Value-Oriented: The price includes the cruise, stops, and some optional cave visits, with the option to purchase extras like cave trips or island walks.
• Good for Relaxers & Adventurers: Whether you want to lounge in the sun or explore caves, this tour caters to various interests.

Exploring the Maltese Seas: An In-Depth Review

Getting to Know the Itinerary

This four-hour boat cruise begins at Mgarr Harbour on Gozo and takes you to the starting point at Marfa Jetty in Malta. From there, the adventure unfolds with a leisurely cruise, passing sights like Elephant Rock, Santa Maria Battery, and Saint Nicholas Bay. Each of these stops offers a quick photo opportunity and a chance to appreciate the dramatic coastline that makes Malta so photogenic.

What truly sets this tour apart is the carefully curated schedule, providing long enough stops at key spots for you to enjoy swimming, snorkeling, or simply relaxing in the sun. The highlight is undoubtedly the Blue Lagoon, where you’ll anchor for about 1.5 hours—ample time to dip into its famously turquoise waters, explore the surrounding islets, or take photos of its postcard-perfect scenery. Following that, there’s a visit to Crystal Lagoon, another fantastic swimming spot with its pristine waters and dramatic cliffs, where you’ll spend around an hour.

The Blue Lagoon: The Crown Jewel

Everyone talks about the Blue Lagoon, and with good reason. Its reputation as one of Malta’s most beautiful swimming spots is well earned. The reviews reflect this, with travelers describing it as “absolutely beautiful” and “living up to the hype.” The water here is clear, warm enough for a swim, and offers fantastic snorkeling opportunities, with reviews mentioning “lots of fish” and “vibrant marine life.” The long stop allows you to unwind, float, snorkel, or just soak up the scenery.

Crystal Lagoon: A Hidden Treasure

Not as famous as the Blue Lagoon but equally stunning, Crystal Lagoon features dramatic cliffs and an inviting cove. The hour you spend here is perfect for trying out the onboard thrilling slide or snorkeling among the rocks. Many reviews highlight the sparkling waters and the chance to relax after the busy Blue Lagoon experience. It’s well worth the visit, especially if you prefer a slightly quieter spot.

Passing by Iconic Sights

As you cruise between stops, you’ll pass by striking landmarks such as Santa Maria Caves—a favorite for those who want to explore caves further with an optional (extra cost) speedboat trip—and Elephant Rock, which is visually impressive. The guides, like Mattia, are often praised for sharing fun facts about the formations and local history, adding an educational element to the journey.

Comfort & Convenience Onboard

The boat itself is described as spacious and comfortable, with decks, rooftop sun loungers, and a water slide (on the morning and early afternoon trips). The onboard facilities include toilets, freshwater showers, and a full cash bar offering drinks and snacks. Many guests mention how easy it is to relax, whether they’re enjoying a cold drink, sunbathing, or chatting with fellow travelers.

The Experience’s Value

The tour, priced at a reasonable rate considering the stops and amenities, is praised for good value for money. The long stops mean you get plenty of time at the major sites, which is often missing in shorter or rushed tours. The option to purchase cave trips or island walks adds some flexibility, but many reviews emphasize that the straightforward boat experience alone is more than enough to satisfy.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip suits travelers seeking a relaxed, scenic day on the water, whether they enjoy swimming, snorkeling, or just soaking up the sun. It’s also ideal for those who appreciate friendly guides and well-paced itineraries. Families, couples, or small groups looking for an authentic Maltese experience will find it especially appealing. If you’re prone to seasickness, do note that the boat can be a bit choppy in windy conditions, and the captain may adjust stops accordingly.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Arrive at least 15 minutes early to avoid missing your departure.
• Bring towels, cash for extras, and your camera.
• Consider bringing your own snacks or drinks if you prefer not to purchase onboard, as the prices can be high.
• For those planning to go on land at Comino, pre-book your tickets online, since disembarking requires advance reservations.
• The weather can influence the schedule—be flexible, especially if storms threaten.
• During peak season, expect crowds at Blue Lagoon, so arrive early if you want a quieter experience.

Price and Logistics

At roughly four hours, this tour hits a sweet spot for a half-day adventure. It’s priced competitively, especially when you consider the long stops, onboard facilities, and scenic stops. The tour also offers options like the speedboat cave trip for an extra €10, which many travelers find worthwhile for a closer look at the caves or a faster ride.

The tour operates from both Gozo and Malta, with specific start times, and the guides speak English. It’s a good idea to check your local schedule, especially in the off-peak months, as times may shift.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you love a relaxed boat ride with plenty of swimming and scenic views, this tour is a winner. It’s perfect for travelers who want to see Malta’s coast without strenuous hiking or long bus rides. Families with kids will enjoy the onboard slide and shallow lagoon waters, while couples and friends will appreciate the laid-back atmosphere and beautiful photo opportunities.

Those who value good guides—like the enthusiastic Augustine or the knowledgeable Mattia—will enjoy the stories and tips shared along the way. And if you’re on a budget but want a comprehensive experience, this tour offers good value, with plenty of time at each major stop.

FAQ

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, especially if you want to go on land at Comino or participate in the cave trips. Booking ahead ensures your spot and access to specific stops.

Is the tour suitable for non-swimmers?
Absolutely. While swimming is encouraged and available, you can also simply enjoy the views from the boat and relax on deck.

What should I bring onboard?
Bring a towel, camera, beachwear, cash for extras, and possibly a snorkel (a small deposit is required). Sunscreen and sunglasses are also recommended.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are available for purchase at the onboard cash bar. Many travelers choose to bring their own water or snacks.

How long are the stops at Blue Lagoon and Crystal Lagoon?
You get about 1.5 hours at Blue Lagoon and 1 hour at Crystal Lagoon, which provides plenty of time for swimming, snorkeling, or just relaxing.

Can I disembark at Comino?
Yes, but only if you pre-book your ticket to go on land. Otherwise, you’ll enjoy the boat ride without stepping onto the island.

What’s the best time of day to do this tour?
The morning trips tend to be less crowded and may offer calmer seas, but the late afternoon, especially the 5 pm trip, offers stunning sunset views — perfect for a memorable end to your day.

To sum it up, this boat tour offers a balanced combination of breathtaking scenery, fun water activities, and comfortable amenities. It’s a smart choice for travelers wanting to see Malta’s highlights without stress or rush. Whether you’re after the iconic Blue Lagoon, a quieter swim in Crystal Lagoon, or just a relaxing cruise, this experience delivers value and authentic charm, making it a must-do during your Maltese visit.